A new service called Southeastern Connect is now helping residents travel more easily in the Mount Hope, Chollas View, and Emerald Hills neighborhoods. This service provides affordable, zero-emission rides in electric vehicles. Rides are currently free through November, making it a great time to check it out. You can book a ride through the Via San Diego smartphone app or by calling 619-413-9986.

Funded through a partnership between SANDAG, the Urban Collaborative Project, the City of San Diego, and the State Clean Mobility Options program, Southeastern Connect is designed to make everyday life easier for residents—whether traveling to work, school, local businesses, community spaces, or connecting to transit.

The service, operated by Via Transportation, is also about building healthier neighborhoods. I recently took a ride and visited community hubs like The Mental Bar, Project New Village, and the Mt. Hope Garden—places that show the strength of Southeastern San Diego. Thanks to the leadership of SANDAG and the Urban Collaborative Project, Southeastern Connect helps tie together these cultural and economic anchors while improving access for residents.