Victor Valley Transit Expands Fare-Free Program To Barstow Community College Students

Students at Barstow Community College, home of the Vikings, now benefit from fare-free VVTA bus service. (Photo courtesy of VVTA)

Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) and Barstow Community College (BCC) have officially launched a new partnership to provide fare-free bus service to BCC students, removing a key barrier to higher education for many in the High Desert region of California.

As of July 1, 2025, all currently enrolled BCC students with a valid Summer or Fall 2025 student ID can ride VVTA’s Fixed Routes, County Routes, and Route 15 completely free of charge.

This initiative makes Barstow Community College the latest institution to join VVTA’s successful fare-free college transit program alongside Victor Valley College and California State University, San Bernardino students. By removing the cost of transportation, the program ensures that more students can access college campuses, academic support services, and employment opportunities — regardless of income or access to a personal vehicle.

“In our region, transportation is key for our students to achieve their educational goals,” Magaly Rojas, Director of the BCC Basic Needs Center, said. “With our partner from VVTA, we will guarantee that transportation is not an obstacle. BCC is creating a route for success for all the students.”

The fare-free transit program is part of a broader effort to expand educational equity and economic mobility across the Victor Valley. The ability to travel between campuses, job sites, and community resources can have a significant impact on a student’s success and quality of life.

“For over a decade, VVTA has supported student riders across the High Desert,” Nancie Goff, CEO of Victor Valley Transit, said. “Welcoming Barstow Community College into our fare-free family expands that legacy and reaffirms our commitment to the success of every student we serve.”

In addition to serving students within the city of Barstow, VVTA’s County Routes provide vital connections for students living in outlying communities, including Hinkley, Lenwood, Newberry Springs, and Daggett. These routes ensure that students from across the High Desert have reliable access to Barstow Community College’s Barstow campus, helping bridge the gap between rural areas and higher education.

Meanwhile, Route 15 is a vital corridor that connects Barstow to Victorville and San Bernardino, offering access to Victor Valley College, Cal State University San Bernardino, and other educational institutions and career opportunities. Fixed and County Routes provide reliable service throughout Barstow and surrounding areas, giving students convenient options for commuting to class or community activities. Visit www.vvta.org.