Agua Caliente Corridor Transit Cards Now Available at Oxxo in Tijuana
Residents of Tijuana can now conveniently top up their electronic transit cards for the Agua Caliente Corridor buses at Oxxo convenience stores, as announced by Jorge Alberto Gutiérrez, the head of the Sustainable Mobility Institute (Imos). Covering various parts of the city, 29 Oxxo stores positioned along the Route 13 are participating in this service. This route travels from the Zona Centro through Blvd. Agua Caliente and Blvd. Díaz Ordaz, concluding at the Presa delegation near Parque Esperanto.
The transit cards, which are not issued by the government but rather by a private concessionaire and in partnership with Oxxo, are a step forward in streamlining public transport payments. These cards, retailing between 40 and 50 pesos, can be received for free upon purchasing a minimum credit bundle, according to Gutiérrez Topete.
Moreover, as part of a cooperation effort with Tijuana’s City Council and the Welfare Secretariat, 71,000 free cards will be distributed this Saturday. These will come pre-loaded with ten trips for general users and 20 trips for individuals over 60, people with disabilities, and students.
Additionally, Imos, in collaboration with the Tijuana City Council, will designate the right lane of the corridor as a priority lane to enhance traffic flow for buses. Currently, 76 buses operate along the Agua Caliente route daily, with 13 more expected soon, including three electric buses.
**Secondary Update: Expansion of Public Transport Amid Growing Demand**
While Tijuana’s public transportation system shows signs of progress with the introduction of pre-paid cards available at Oxxo, the city is also considering expanding the current routes to better serve its population. Currently, there is a proposal to extend the SITT (Integrated Transportation System of Tijuana) routes to include the Eastern Zone of the city, which is often underserved in terms of public transport.
The initiative is part of a broader aim to address critical mobility challenges within the city’s Industrial Zone and beyond. In response to commuter needs and in anticipation of increased demand, city officials emphasize the necessity for more comprehensive public transport solutions, which also include refining existing routes and services.
Efforts continue towards improving accessibility and efficiency, ensuring that bus services can keep pace with Tijuana’s expanding urban landscape and the commuting needs of its residents.