Carpinteria receives new on-demand microtransit service

Santa Barbara MTD has expanded its on-demand microtransit service, ‘The Wave’, to Carpinteria and surrounding unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County, including Santa Claus Lane.

The service provides flexible, curb-to-curb transportation using seven-seat vans. Riders can book trips via the TransLoc app or by calling the MTD Customer Service Center, with options for immediate booking or reservations up to one week in advance. The service operates Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

To introduce the service, rides are currently free. Starting November 1, 2026, a standard one-way fare of $3.00 will be implemented, with a discounted rate of $1.50 for seniors aged 65 and older and individuals with disabilities. Passengers can also transfer for free from The Wave to any MTD fixed-route bus within a 60-minute window.