FRESNO, CA – The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) unveiled four new, clean diesel, over-the-road coaches today at the Fresno Yosemite International Airport. The buses, which were procured through federal community project funding obtained by Congressman Jim Costa, will commence service on Saturday, June 1st, the first day that YARTS routes will run between the city of Fresno and Yosemite National Park.
“One of my top priorities in Congress is to deliver taxpayer dollars back home to boost our regional economy,“ said Representative Costa. “This federal investment is a game-changer for YARTS. With this funding, YARTS will continue to advance clean public transportation services to Yosemite National Park.”
Beginning tomorrow, YARTS will operate two daily, round-trip runs between Fresno and Yosemite through September 10th. Buses will depart the Fresno area starting at 5:30am and 7:15am everyday with passengers having the option to board at one of four locations in the Fresno area: Amtrak/Greyhound station, Fresno Airport, North Fresno, and the Four Corners Park and Ride (at the intersection of Highways 41 and 145). Buses back to Fresno will leave Yosemite at 5:00pm and 7:00pm daily. Other stops on the Highway 41 route include Chukchansi resort, Coarsegold, Oakhurst, Tenaya lodge and the Mariposa Grove.
“One of the crown jewels of the national park system – and in all of North America – is right in our backyard, and it’s vital that we ensure our residents have access,” said Mayor Jerry Dyer. “Everyone deserves the chance to see the natural beauty that exceeds imagination and to feel the sense of wonder that only a place like Yosemite can bring. I’m thrilled that the City of Fresno was able to step in and keep this service going in Fresno.”
Round trip fare from Fresno to Yosemite is $40 with several discount rates available for children, seniors, veterans and disabled passengers. Tickets can be purchased, and reservations made, on the YARTS website. Passengers riding into Yosemite on YARTS do not need a day-use pass issued by the National Park Service on days when one is required for those entering in private vehicles.
“This is an exciting day for YARTS, and one that is a long time coming,” said Merced County Supervisor Daron McDaniel, YARTS Chair. “Thanks to the Congressman’s leadership and continued support for YARTS, we are not only celebrating the delivery of these new buses but also the exciting partnership with the City of Fresno that will ensure YARTS service from Fresno for years to come.”
All YARTS buses are equipped with lavatories and both undercarriage and overhead storage for personal items. Children under five are always free and each child between the ages of 6 and 12 years-old ride free if accompanied by a full-fare paying adult For more information about YARTS schedules, fares, routes, or to purchase tickets, visit www.yarts.com or call (877) 989-2787.
YARTS is a California Joint Powers Authority comprised of the Counties of Merced, Mariposa, Tuolumne, Madera, and the City of Fresno (pending) in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, National Park Service and United States Forest Service. The Merced County Association of Governments provides administrative services and operational support for YARTS.
