As the year draws to a close, SamTrans is reflecting on a vibrant 2024, filled with creativity, diversity and community connection. From youth art initiatives to cultural celebrations, the agency’s events highlighted its dedication to the people of San Mateo County.
The winning student artists getting their picture taken with members of the SamTrans Board of Directors in San Carlos.
This year, SamTrans proudly celebrated the 16th annual Art Takes a Bus Ride competition. More than 100 students across San Mateo County submitted artwork inspired by the theme “Exploring Nature with SamTrans.” A panel of judges from the San Mateo County Arts Commission selected the winning entries, which were unveiled at a special ceremony in May. Two buses featuring the students’ designs showcased the young talent and helped foster a love for the arts.
The 2024 SamTrans Pride Bus celebrated both the LGBTQ+ community and the agency's commitment to zero-emission vehicles.
In June, SamTrans made history by participating in three local Pride parades — the most in its nearly 50-year history. The agency’s fully wrapped battery-electric bus, adorned with the theme “Love, It’s Electrifying,” highlighted its support for the LGBTQ+ community and its commitment to zero-emission vehicles. The design was created by former SamTrans Designer Li Kong and was sponsored by the Rainbow Employee Resource Group, representing LGBTQ+ employees at SamTrans and their allies.
The SamTrans Juneteenth Bus Wrap with artist Kalief Porter-Brown.
For the first time, SamTrans honored Juneteenth with a vibrantly wrapped bus designed by Transit Instructor Kalief Porter-Brown. Sponsored by the African American Employee Resource Group, the bus celebrated African American heritage and resilience. “Seeing African American heritage represented through my artwork was truly amazing,” Porter-Brown shared.
The Día de los Muertos bus wrap, 2024
In early November, SamTrans joined the Día de los Muertos celebration in Redwood City, hosted by Casa Círculo Cultural. The event featured a Día de los Muertos-themed bus designed by SamTrans Designer Cheri West, which served as a centerpiece alongside vibrant performances, altar competitions, and cultural workshops.
The SamTrans Holiday Bus makes its way through downtown Redwood City for the annual Hometown Holidays parade.
SamTrans rounded out the year with its 13th annual appearance at the Hometown Holidays festival in downtown Redwood City. The festively decorated Holiday Bus and Minibus brought cheer to the parade, with staff handing out Santa hats to attendees. After the parade, the buses were displayed at Sequoia Station to welcome the Caltrain Holiday Train, adding a magical touch to the family-friendly event.
From fostering young artists to honoring cultural traditions, SamTrans has celebrated the heart and soul of San Mateo County throughout 2024. As the agency looks forward, it remains committed to building connections and uplifting the diverse communities it serves.