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County Connection Launches Youth Ride Free Pilot Program   

Youth Ride Free gif

Regional summer travel just got a whole lot better for area youth! County Connection is thrilled to announce the launch of the Youth Ride Free pilot program, which will offer fare-free rides on all County Connection bus routes for youth up to 18 years of age, starting June 1 through July 31. Young riders can simply board without the need for an application or special pass, making access to public transit easier than ever. 

The Youth Ride Free program is designed to familiarize young riders with public transit and promote regular bus use, while also allowing County Connection to learn more about where its youth riders want to go. By eliminating fares and an application process, County Connection is removing obstacles that have historically prevented youth from fully utilizing public transportation.  

“Our goal is to create life-long transit users, either on our system or elsewhere,” says Kevin Wilk, Board Chair of County Connection. “Encouraging and understanding youth travel behavior are key to this pilot. While previous efforts to lower youth fares have shown some positive results, we need to gain a clearer picture of travel habits–especially among those who may hesitate to fill out an application, by reducing barriers to youths riding public transit.” 

Neighboring transit agencies implementing similar programs experienced substantial increases in youth ridership (ranging from 15% to 154%) during the summer of 2024.Transitioning to a fare-free system not only encourages more trips from low-income riders but also enhances bus service efficiency and reduces costs associated with fare collection.  

During the summer months, this free transit initiative is also expected to greatly enhance mobility for young people, allowing them to access vital resources such as libraries, parks, shopping centers, and summer job opportunities. Additionally, the program aims to reduce social isolation, foster greater transit literacy, and promote increased physical activity among youth.  

Previous programs like the Summer Youth Pass (which has been discontinued) and Pass2Class have facilitated youth access to public transit; however, ridership trends have not shown significant growth in the years since COVID. The Youth Ride Free program aims to change that dynamic.  

“With this pilot, we recognize the need to adapt to the changing demands of our young riders,” Bill Churchill, General Manager of County Connection. “This initiative encourages us to think creatively about how we can meet their travel habits by incentivizing changes in travel behavior. Regardless of the pilot’s outcome, the data we’re able to collect will help inform future programs.”  

In addition to tracking youth ridership, County Connection plans to collect passenger feedback through opt-in surveys, providing young riders with a platform to share their experience. However, providing free transit does come with financial implications. For County Connection, funding this pilot as a research initiative will inform future planning efforts and help determine the feasibility of sustaining a youth transit program in the long term. 

At the conclusion of the Youth Ride Free pilot in July, area youth will have the opportunity to register for Pass2Class, a program offered by 511 Contra Costa that requires an application and offers two months of free transit on County Connection buses. Following the pilot, County Connection staff will share data and insights with partnering agencies to ensure alignment and collaboration in future initiatives aimed at engaging our youth riders.  
 
For more information on the Youth Ride Free program, visit countyconnection.com/yrf/ 

It’s Easy Being Green on Public Transit

Image of Earth with text Happy Earth Day.

Earth Day is celebrated every year on April 22, and since its inception in 1970, public transit has been tied to it. Why? Public transit services not only reduce carbon emissions but also alleviate traffic congestion and are more energy-efficient per passenger-mile than private vehicles. The benefits are clear and in step with Earth Day’s push for environmental protection and sustainability. But the challenge lies in encouraging real change. For County Connection, we want to get you on one of our buses, if even for one day! Contact Marketing at marketing@cccta.org to request a free pass.

Other way to Go Green: Free, Save, Make Green

Free Green
Did you know County Connection offers 10 free routes? Hop on. Hop off. No need to pay! These routes are made possible by public state and city funds, as incentives to encourage usage in select areas around central Contra Costa County. 

  • Weekdays: 4, 5, 7, 11, 14, 16, and 99X 
  • Weekends: 4, 311, 314, and 316 

Save Green
Save money on transit when you pay with Clipper!
> Click here to see which Clipper Card is best for you!

 CLIPPER CASH YOU SAVE 
ADULT $2.00 $2.50 $0.50 
YOUTH (6-18) $1.00 $2.50 $1.50 
SENIOR/RTC $1.00 $1.25 $0.25 

Make Green
We’re hiring! We’re looking for motivated people who share our values. County Connection has 200+ employees offering careers in Administration, Maintenance, and Transportation. Full-time positions are available, with benefits including medical, vacation, paid training, retirement/CalPERS, and more.

Apply today

EARTH DAY CELEBRATIONS AROUND CONTRA COSTA 

Looking for places to celebrate Earth Day? There’s lots going on and showing up for an event is a great way to see your community turn out! 

Concord 
April 19, 2025 – Family Food Sort 2025 with Food Bank of Solano & Contra Costa 
Please join the Food Bank for our Earth Day Family Food Sort. Families with children as young as five years old are invited to learn about our green initiatives and “Volunteer to Improve the Environment” by bagging fresh produce at our warehouse for our food distribution programs.  Concord Warehouse, 4010 Nelson Ave, Concord, 925-676-7543 

Clayton 
April 19, 2025, 9am-noon – Clayton Cleans Up (Clayton Business and Community Association).  
Celebrate Earth Day by Cleaning Up Clayton! The Clayton Business & Community Association (CBCA) invites volunteers to celebrate Earth Day by helping clean up local parks, streets, and creeks. After a rewarding morning of cleanup, volunteers will be treated to a free barbecue as a thank-you for their efforts. The first 200 volunteers will receive a free T-shirt featuring this year’s logo —so be sure to arrive early! Clayton City Hall, 6000 Heritage Trail, Clayton 

Lafayette 
April 27, 2025, 11am-2pm – Earth Day Festival 2025 
The City of Lafayette invites residents to enjoy the outdoors and learn about how to protect the Earth, fight climate change, and create a more sustainable Lafayette. Lafayette Plaza, 3530 Plaza Way, Lafayette

Martinez 
April 26, 2025, 10am-4pm – 2025 John Muir’s Birthday/Earth Day Celebration 
Join us for a special event celebrating the life and legacy of John Muir. This family-friendly day of activities, exhibits, and performances highlights Muir’s contributions to conservation and encourages environmental awareness. John Muir National Historic Site, 4202 Alhambra Ave, Martinez

Pleasant Hill 
May 10, 2025, 9am-noon – Grayson Creek Earth Day 2025 
Help protect Grayson Creek and improve habitat for birds, turtles, otters, and other riparian species. 250 Cleaveland Road, Pleasant Hill 

Walnut Creek 
April 19, 2025, 11am-2pm – Celebration Day at Civic Park 
Join us for Walnut Creek’s biggest Earth Day celebration! Civic Park will come alive with a dynamic, family-friendly festival celebrating the intersection of sustainability and movement. Whether you’re passionate about sustainability or just looking for a fun day out, this is an event you won’t want to miss! Civic Park, 1375 Civic Dr, Walnut Creek

Rider Spotlight: Alex Harmon on Bay Area Transit 

Meet Alex Harmon, a lifelong East Bay resident who is well-versed in the ways of Bay Area public transit. Working in radio, Alex manages the behind the scenes promotions for four local radio stations, calling on him to cover a lot of territory in his day. And though he does have a car to cover that territory, Alex opts for public transit, giving him more freedom and opportunity to appreciate the different landscapes of the Bay Area.

Alex’s journey with public transit began during his childhood when he rode BART with his father. Their trips to Oakland for appointments and Raiders games introduced him to the public transit system long before smartphones made navigation simple. “In the late 1990s, I’d find myself enjoying the sights of the system by looking out windows or at maps,” he recalls. As he gained some teenage independence, Alex started to ride BART and AC Transit on his own, later expanding his travels to MUNI, Wheels, and County Connection.

One of his earliest memories of County Connection was taking the bus in San Ramon to attend an eye appointment during his high school years. “Being a Hayward kid, it was interesting to see another part of the East Bay on a nice brown bus,” he shares. Later he became a resident of Dublin and his connection with County Connection further solidified as he frequently rode the routes to central Contra Costa County.

Alex takes pride in his choice to rely on public transit. “I’ve always been fortunate to reside near a bus line and within walking distance from BART,” he explains. His affinity for biking also complements his public transit journeys. “Taking public transit allows you to see and embrace the Bay Area in a different way than you would in the driver’s seat,” he adds. 

For Alex, riding transit is not just about getting from point A to point B; it’s about adventure. He often documents his journeys through photography, sharing them on social media and connecting with a community of fellow transit enthusiasts. As a regular user of BART, AC Transit, County Connection, Tri Valley Wheels, and Muni, Alex’s daily travels vary. “I work in Daly City, so I get a SamTrans fix plus VTA when I’m down in the South Bay,” he mentions. Some of his go-to County Connection routes include the 1, 4, 21/321, 35/335, and 93X.

Over the years, Alex has witnessed notable changes in the public transit landscape. He appreciates the integration of the Clipper card system, which has streamlined travel across the Bay Area. However, he’s also seen public transit adapt to societal shifts, from economic recessions to the recent pandemic, which altered ridership patterns.

One challenge he recognizes is the perception that public transit is only for commuting. “I’d like to see more people understand that anyone can ride public transit for more than just their work commute,” Alex insists. He advocates that individuals can incorporate transit into weekend activities, exercise routines, and more, ultimately reducing car dependency.

For Alex, the benefits of public transit also extend to his lifestyle. “My step count is great!” he laughs, emphasizing that the freedom from car dependency allows him to catch up on life during his commutes—whether answering messages, reading the news, or simply enjoying the view outside his window.

Looking ahead, Alex is eager to explore other transit systems. His experiences in New York City’s subway left him wanting more, and he has a keen interest in riding the WMATA Metro in Washington D.C., which shares similarities with BART. For Alex, public transit is more than a practical way to navigate a city; it’s an adventure that offers authentic experiences and personal souvenirs in the form of transit passes and stories.

In a world increasingly influenced by cars, Alex Harmon’s experience serves as a reminder of the joys and benefits of public transportation. Embracing the diverse transit options of the Bay Area not only enriches his daily routine but also opens the door to new connections.

Are you a transit enthusiast? We’d love to share your perspective on how public transit shapes your day. Reach out to our Marketing Department at marketing@cccta.org and let us know about your story!

County Connection, Behind the AdWheel Award 

You may be familiar with the Oscars and Grammys, but the AdWheel Award is a lesser-known accolade celebrated in the public transit marketing sphere. The AdWheel is a coveted recognition by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA)–and County Connection is a 2025 recipient. Woot! 

The AdWheel Awards are presented annually at the APTA Marketing, Communications, & Customer Experience Workshop, which takes place at various locations across the nation. The awards recognize excellence in three main categories:  

  • Best Marketing and Communications on Workforce Development 
  • Best Marketing and Communications to Increase Ridership or Sales 
  • Best Marketing and Communications Educational Initiative  

Each category features five subcategories based on platform or marketing format, including print media, electronic media, special events, social media, and comprehensive campaigns. Agencies must submit applications and, when applicable, samples of their campaigns, months in advance to be considered for an award. 

This year, County Connection won the AdWheel Award for Best Marketing and Communications on Workforce Development (Social Media) for our March 2024 campaign in honor of Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day. This annual event recognizes the contributions of those who not only drive our buses, but keep them clean and operational, providing essential service to our community. 

About our 2024 Campaign 

For our 2024 campaign, County Connection’s marketing team invited passengers to submit messages of appreciation for our transit workers through an online form. We received nearly 100 submissions, which staff used to create a graphic template that included the sender’s first name, age, and city alongside their message. We also highlighted our transit workforce by preparing posts featuring photos of three County Connection staff members representing our operators, maintenance team, and customer service team. Transit Operator & Worker Appreciation Day took place on March 18, 2024 (and every March 18), and the graphics from our award-winning campaign were shared throughout the day on social media. 

County Connection is proud to receive this recognition and aims to show our workforce how much they are valued, particularly as the public transit industry seeks to fill vacant positions. (BTW, we’re hiring!) 

Submit a message for our Appreciation 2025 campaign 

We’re repeating our efforts again this year and putting out a call for messages that we can share with our transit workforce. This year, you may submit a message (such as “Thanks for greeting me each morning”), or include a photo or video, and even haikus are welcome from those feeling poetic for transit workers! We will select as many submissions as possible to share (and tag if you wish) on our social media pages. 

Submit a message!

Thank you for helping us celebrate the dedicated individuals who make public transit possible! 

Hold onto Your Hats–it’s Roadeo Time! 

Maybe this ain’t your first Roadeo (yes, that’s how it’s spelled). But if it is, buckle up: in public bus circles, the International Bus Roadeo, run by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) is the ultimate test of skill. A Roadeo is a bus-handling competition held annually, challenging public bus agencies to pit their top operators against an obstacle course of hard turns, quick stops, and serpentines—all timed, of course. For most operators, however, it is just another day at the office. 

Image of a bus negotiating the Rear Duels Clearance, obstacle 1.
Roadeo judge looking on as County Connection bus negotiates the Rear Duels Clearance, Problem 1. (County Connection/Andy Smith)

To qualify for the International Bus Roadeo, held this year in Austin, TX, agencies must first hold their own competitions, adhering to the same judging criteria, and course problems. County Connection hosts its competition in late Winter/early Spring, inviting any staff with a Class B driver’s license to participate. But only an APTA-qualified* operator winner can advance to the international stage.  

Like County Connection, many agencies turn their local competitions into mini-industry-only events, inviting partner agencies for judging, food trucks, and even a bounce house for the kids—all fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendly rivalry. And yes, there is a good chance for everyone to ride through a bus wash while singing “The Wheels on the Bus”—pure joy for both kids and kids-at-heart! 

On the international stage, local competition winners face off against other top operators from around the country for the top prize. The operator with the highest score receives a trophy, Champion Ring, and $1,000. In addition to navigating the obstacle course, participants are evaluated on personal appearance and complete a pre-trip inspection of the bus—a true test of expertise. 

Graphic of County Connection Roadeo course.

 While a simple left or right turn may seem easy, bus drivers navigate these 13-ton, 30–40-foot long vehicles daily, maneuvering through bustling freeways and narrow streets. Add in unexpected challenges like accidents or animals darting across the road, and the demands become clear. Bus operators possess skills often overlooked, or at least not easily noticed. With each trip, they must balance precision, quick thinking, stellar customer service, and a high level of professionalism. It’s no wonder so many agencies strive for excellence at the APTA International Bus Roadeo, displaying the remarkable skill set required to sit behind the wheel of a bus.  

Image of a driver in a bus, working through the Roadeo obstacle course.
County Connection operator finishing the final obstacle, the judgement stop. (County Connection/Ryan Jones)

In a time when County Connection and the public transit industry grapple with financial sustainability, recover ridership lost during the pandemic, and strive to fill numerous vacant operator positions, the Roadeo represents more than just a contest. It’s a point of pride for agencies; a reminder that while competition can be fierce, it’s the everyday dedication of operators that truly keeps our communities moving safely.  

For over 25 years, County Connection has proudly sent over 10 operators to compete nationally, many of whom competed more than once. The agency also has the top female driver, who in 2010 ranked in at #4 nationally, and is still the top-scoring female competitor.  

So, as drivers tackle the Roadeo gauntlet, both on small and big stages, they also reflect the real-life obstacles they face daily—because in the world of bus driving, every day can feel like a Roadeo. 

*To be APTA-qualified, operators must not have had any accidents, suspensions, or attendance warnings in the year prior to competing.  

Improvements in Service, On-Time Performance 

Graphic of a bus with a clock over it.

We hear you: you want your buses to arrive on time! At County Connection, we recognize the critical importance of on-time performance and providing a service you can count on, and we want that, too!  

In 2023, we conducted a passenger survey, something we do every three years, with results that guide our decisions on any service changes and route planning. 10% of riders we spoke to said they would ride County Connection more if our service was more reliable. And a sizable portion of people we surveyed (19%) rated our current reliability as fair or poor. These findings were enlightening, though not entirely surprising. 

We are committed to providing excellent service to our passengers, but face many challenges, including ever-increasing traffic congestion and a nationwide driver shortage. (There’s plenty of buses, but not enough people to drive them.) Driver shortages have impacted our ability to run all service lines effectively, however, we are actively recruiting new drivers to address this issue, too! (Psst…we’re hiring!) 

In response to the survey, our Planning team has been looking into ways to improve service reliability and the overall passenger experience. Last fall, we started using new data-driven software intended to improve service by continually tracking real-time bus location, and schedule adherence. This technology allows us to compare the actual running time of our buses as they travel down their routes against our published timetables. We are putting ourselves to the test by asking: are we delivering on our promises? By identifying differences between what we’ve scheduled and how our buses run, we can make informed changes to improve service reliability. 

What does improved on-time performance look like? 

We recently made some changes to our schedules to make them more accurate and adjusted some routes to help our buses flow better with traffic or, when possible, avoid congestion altogether. 

These changes were made to 24 routes, including weekday local, weekend, school, and express routes, and we’ve observed promising results (as shown in Table 1, below). Since these changes, 82% of our buses on these 24 routes are operating on-time. Across all 51 of our routes systemwide, 81% of our buses are on-time.

Table 1: On-time performance, measuring before Spring 2024 and after recent service changes (Current).

SERVICESpring 2024CurrentChange
Local78%82%+ 4%
Weekend74%82%+ 8%
Express76%82%+ 6%
School64%80%+ 16%
AVERAGE77%82%+ 5%

In Table 1, the column Spring 2024, shows percentages when our buses were scheduled to arrive at timepoints and the percentage of time they were actually arriving on schedule. The column Current, shows how, after changes in service, on-time performance shifted and buses were arriving on schedule an average of +5% of the time. (For all you math brains out there, average on-time performance percentages are calculated based on the actual number of on-time arrivals across all routes where service changes were made, giving more weight to routes with a greater number of trips, rather than just averaging the percentages for each service type.)

Predictive tools at your fingertips 

For passengers who want to stay informed about their bus’s arrival times, the Transit app and the route pages on our website include live feed maps showing the current location of the buses on your route, in addition to our published schedules (see below).  

A new start in bus stop improvements 

Additionally, we’re working to make system-wide improvements to our bus stops. As part of this initiative, we plan to install 28 new monitors that display real-time bus arrival times that are updated every 10 seconds. These displays will be housed in vandal-resistant cases and will include ADA-compliant text-to-speech features.  

Real-time display

The short-term goal is to install a real-time bus arrival display at the busiest bus stop in each city within the County Connection service area, if the stop has at least 10 passenger boardings per day (excluding BART stations and transit centers, which will see new signage as part of the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s Regional Mapping & Wayfinding Project coming in the next year). The remaining 18 displays will be installed at our other busiest stops, ensuring better coverage along various routes.

At County Connection, we are committed to continually enhancing our service and your experience. Thank you for your feedback, patience, and support as we make strides toward improving on-time performance and overall satisfaction.  

Service Changes Effective January 12, 2025

Graphic of a County Connection bus at a bus stop.

Service changes to Routes 4, 7, 11, 15, 99X, 301, 311, 315, 623, 636

ROUTE
WHAT CHANGED
SCHEDULE
4
  • Long term detour ended. Service is reinstated on Locust St but will continue on S. Broadway (no service on Broadway Plaza)
Download PDF
7
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
11
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
15
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
99X
  • Removed Mason Cir and added Solano Loop (Commercial Support Services relocated)
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
301
  • Extended route to Via Monte/Ygnacio Valley Rd
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
311
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
315
  • Revised schedule
Download PDF
SELECT SCHOOL SERVICE ADJUSTMENTS
623
  • Revised schedule (Monte Vista High)
Download PDF
636
  • Revised schedule (California High, Iron Horse Middle, Pine Valley Middle)
Download PDF

WHY ARE THERE CHANGES IN SERVICE?
County Connection is making time adjustments to some of our routes to better align with neighboring transit agency schedules and improve on time performance. The updated schedules are intended to provide a more seamless transit experience across agencies. If you have questions, contact Customer Service 925-676-7500.

¿POR QUÉ HAY CAMBIOS EN EL SERVICIO?
County Connection está haciendo ajustes de tiempo en algunas de nuestras rutas para alinearse mejor con los horarios de las agencias de transporte vecinas y mejorar la puntualidad. Los horarios actualizados están destinados a proporcionar una experiencia de tránsito más fluida entre las agencias. Si tiene preguntas, comuníquese con Servicio al Cliente al 925-676-7500.

Schroder legacy on display with building dedication 

Concord, CA — County Connection is proud to announce the dedication of the Schroder Administration Building to honor Robert (Bob) Schroder and his son, Robert (Rob) Schroder, for their exceptional service to the community and their unwavering commitment to public transportation in Contra Costa County. The dedication ceremony was held Thursday, December 19, 2024 at County Connection headquarters in Concord.

Image of Rob Schroder in front of Schroder Administration Building at County Connection.
Rob Schroder speaking with well-wishers in front of newly christened Schroder Administration Building at County Connection.

Bob Schroder (1928-2019) was a businessperson, civic leader, and founding father in establishing the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority (County Connection), serving on its Board of Directors from 1980 to 1998. Additional notable roles include serving 16 years on the Walnut Creek City Council, 16 years on the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, and holding a seat on the Metropolitan Transportation Commission. 

Bob’s foresight allowed for broader collaboration among local cities, making public transportation more accessible for all East Bay residents. His dedication earned him the nickname “Mr. Transportation” and led to his legacy being immortalized with the “Robert I. Schroder” bridge over Treat Boulevard. 

Bob’s son, Rob Schroder, recently retired from the County Connection Board of Directors, where he served from 1998 to 2024, while also serving as mayor and councilmember for the City of Martinez. His extensive contributions encompass transforming city finances, revitalizing parks and public facilities, and launching initiatives that support local businesses; solidifying his status as a true champion for the community and its residents. 

“For the first time in 44 years, we will not have a Schroder sitting on our Board of Directors,” quipped Bill Churchill, General Manager of County Connection. “The Schroders embody the essence of civic leadership, and they recognized that advocating for public transit is a vital investment in both economic and community growth.” Churchill, who has been with the Authority for 30 years himself, working with both Bob and Rob, continued, “In public transit, we strive to ensure there’s reliable and accessible transit for all. The Schroders truly understood that mission.” 

The Schroder Administration Building will stand as a tribute to Bob and Rob Schroders’ time, talents, and shared vision for enhancing public transportation and community development in Contra Costa County. 

Community Resources: We’re here to help

Image of crisis resource graphics

Navigating your way through the holiday season can be challenging for some. County Connection is committed to public service and knows that besides needing an affordable transit option, there are those who may need help in other ways.

If you or someone you know is experiencing food insecurity, looking for shelter, or are in need of crisis counseling support, there are resources available in Contra Costa:

COUNTY CONNECTION RESOURCES

Safe Place Logo
  • Safe Place (1-800-786-2929) – All County Connection buses serve as a Safe Place for youth in crisis. A Safe Place is a designated place that can help youth in crisis by connecting them with available resources. If you are a youth in crisis, find a County Connection bus and tell them you are in need of help. Other ways to get help:
    • Phone – text the word SAFE and your current location (address, city, state) to the number 69866. You will receive a message with the closest Safe Place location. You will also have the option to text interactively with a professional for more help. It’s quick, confidential, and safe.
    • Speak to someone on the phone by calling the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-RUNAWAY (1-800-786-2929).
    • Safe Place is not intended to replace 911 in emergency situations.  If you are in immediate danger, please call 911.
  • Free Routes – County Connection offers ten free routes (marked green) to any passenger. These routes travel around Central Contra Costa County and can connect you to resources.

FOOD INSECURITY

  • Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano (multiple locations) – Free food is available near you! Click here to see a map of Food Distribution Sites (listed by city) to find a location or call 855-309-3663.
  • Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa (multiple locations) – Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa Operated Dining Rooms are open to the public and serve anyone that is in need of food. There are dining rooms located in Antioch, Martinez, Oakley, Pittsburg, and Walnut Creek. Click here to find a meal near you.
  • GROW (Grass Roots Outreach Warriors) (Concord) – GROW not only provides meals to whomever needs it (6 days a week), they also offer laundry and hygiene services, as well as providing supplies such as clothing and pet supplies. Dinner served:
    • Baldwin Park, 2727 Parkside Circle in Concord (Port Chicago Hwy & Bonifacio)
      Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday @ 4pm
    • Cowell Park, 3501 Cowell Road in Concord (Cowell Road, just west of Babel)
      Monday, Wednesday, Friday @ 4pm
  • Monument Crisis Center (1990 Market Street, Concord) – The food distribution program provides stability for low income and at-risk individuals and families in Contra Costa County. Distribution is Monday-Wednesday, 9am-Noon.
  • Hillcrest United Church of Christ (404 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill) – Hillcrest Community Service Programs offers a food pantry, clothing room, and care ministries for those in need.

CRISIS COUNSELING

  • Contra Costa Crisis Center (Walnut Creek, Call 988 or 1-800-273-8255) – Seek culturally relevant resources and assistance for yourself or others in need of crisis or suicide prevention, and grief counseling.
  • Rainbow Community Center (Concord, non-crisis intake line 925-692-2056) – Provides clinical and peer groups for LGBTQIA2S+ to promote acceptance, bring people together, and improve communication.
  • 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline (nation-wide, call 988) – 988 has been designated as the three-digit dialing code that will route callers to the National Suicide Prevention & Mental Health Crisis Lifeline, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across the United States.
  • NAMI Contra Costa – Provides support, outreach, education and advocacy to individuals living with and families impacted by mental illness. 

SHELTER

  • Contra Costa Health, Adult and Youth Homeless Services (call 211 or text “HOPE” to 20121) – Contra Costa Health’s Health, Housing and Homeless Services provides a number of services to support unhoused people.
  • Shelter Inc. (Pleasant Hill, 925-435-2074) – Rebuilding lives one family at a time, by helping reestablish a home, and assisting with the skills and resources families need to live the life they deserve.
  • Winter Nights Family Shelter (Pleasant Hill, 925-435-2074, info@cccwinternights.org) – The Winter Nights Family Shelter serves families with children, including shelter, meals, transportation, day tutors, counseling and a parking lot program.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

If you know of other community resources available in Contra Costa County or would like to make a suggested edit to the list above, please contact the County Connection Marketing Department, marketing@cccta.org.

County Connection Secures $15.9 Million Grant for Solar and Service Modernization Project 

Concord, CA – County Connection has been awarded $15.9 million from the Transit and Intercity Rail Capital Program (TIRCP) to fund the innovative Solar Supported Zero Emission Vehicle Fleet and Service Modernization Project. This transformative project aims to enhance public transit services while significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions, particularly benefiting disadvantaged and low-income communities within the County Connection service area. 

The project proposes the installation of 90,000 square feet of solar panels and a microgrid battery storage facility to support the acquisition of future zero-emission buses (ZEBs) that will replace outdated diesel-powered buses. 

“This funding will strengthen the foundation of our zero emission programs and commitment to ensuring safe reliable and clean public transportation for our Contra Costa residents,” said Kevin Wilk, Walnut Creek City Councilmember and the Chairman of County Connection Board of Directors. 

The project is particularly important as it aligns with California’s strict air quality regulations. In 2023, County Connection’s Board of Directors adopted a plan to transition to a fully zero-emission bus fleet, in accordance with California Air Resources Board (CARB) regulations requiring all new buses purchased after January 1, 2029, to be zero-emission vehicles. The initial phase will focus on acquiring 27 additional ZEBs, set to replace diesel buses which will be at the end of their useful life. 

The TIRCP funding will not only support critical infrastructure upgrades at the main bus depot in Concord but will also enhance the facility’s resilience against future power grid disruptions. The on-site solar power generation and battery storage will significantly lower emissions, reinforcing County Connection’s commitment to a sustainable future. 

“We are always looking toward the future and for new ways to offer reliable public transit to the communities we serve,” said Bill Churchill, General Manager at County Connection. In total, the project is estimated to cost $48.9 million, with this grant award leveraging additional state and federal funds. 

The anticipated greenhouse gas emission reduction is substantial, with projections indicating a reduction of 40,372 metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MTCO2e), highlighting the project’s critical role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. 

Media inquires, please contact Ryan Jones, Manager of Marketing & Communications, County Connection at rjones@cccta.org or call 925-680-2037.