Sonoma County Transit launches Route 40X with new SMART connections beginning Aug. 10

Sonoma County Transit will launch Route 40X on Monday, Aug. 10, replacing the existing Route 40 with a redesigned schedule that offers timed connections to SMART trains in downtown Petaluma during peak commute hours.

The pilot service connects the Sonoma Plaza with the Petaluma SMART Station and was developed in direct response to public feedback following SMART’s expanded train service in April.

Residents consistently requested that Sonoma County Transit adjust Route 40 schedules to better connect with SMART trains. The new Route 40X is designed to meet southbound SMART trains during the morning commute and northbound trains during the evening commute, making it easier for riders to travel between Sonoma Valley and destinations throughout the SMART rail corridor. The "X" designation identifies the route as a commute-focused service operating during peak travel periods rather than a separate express route.

“You asked, we listened,” said Emily Betts, Sonoma County Transit manager. “The new Route 40X is a direct response to the community’s request for better connections to SMART. This pilot will help us understand whether demand exists for this type of commuter-focused service so we can continue improving our transit network to meet our riders’ needs.”

The redesigned route also addresses current ridership trends. Route 40 has historically been one of Sonoma County Transit’s lowest-ridership routes, suggesting that the previous schedule could be better aligned with current rider demand. By focusing service on peak commute periods and coordinating with SMART arrivals and departures, Sonoma County Transit aims to provide a more useful travel option while evaluating future demand.

The Route 40X pilot is part of the region’s broader MASCOTS (Marin-Sonoma Coordinated Transit Service) initiative along the Highway 101 corridor. The multi-agency effort has resulted in significant service changes by Golden Gate Transit and SMART, improving efficiency and increasing ridership.

Sonoma County Transit implemented its first MASCOTS-related service adjustment in spring 2025 by rerouting Route 20 to serve the downtown Santa Rosa SMART Station. Since then, Route 20 ridership has increased by 5%, serving more than 110,000 riders annually. On average, 57 passenger trips each day now use Route 20 stops serving the downtown Santa Rosa SMART Station.

Planning is underway for the next phase of MASCOTS, which includes strengthening local bus connections to SMART through coordinated service improvements by Sonoma County Transit, Santa Rosa CityBus, and Petaluma Transit.

Additional Sonoma County Transit routes are expected to be updated in early 2027, including Route 60 serving Cloverdale, Route 32 serving Sonoma Valley, and Routes 44 and 48 along the Highway 101 corridor.

As a pilot program, Route 40X will be monitored closely. Sonoma County Transit will use ridership data and customer feedback to determine whether adjustments to the schedule or service are needed.

The new Route 40X schedule takes effect Aug. 10. Riders can view schedules and trip planning information at sctransit.com.

About Sonoma County Transit

Sonoma County Transit provides safe, reliable and affordable public transportation throughout Sonoma County, connecting residents and visitors to employment, education, shopping, medical services and regional transit providers.

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Media Contact:
Diana Callaway, Communications & Outreach Manager
diana.callaway@sonomacounty.gov
(707) 565-2847