Santa Maria Regional Transit Elevates Rider Experience with Vandal-Resistant Digital Displays
Displays & Shelter Lighting for a Future-Focused Transit Network
Santa Maria Regional Transit set out to enhance the rider experience by delivering real-time information, improving safety and modernizing existing shelters. Having already used Urban Solar lighting systems for well over a decade, the agency was ready to take the next step with a digital display pilot.
Working collaboratively with Tolar Manufacturing and Axentia, we provided 13" vandal-resistant e-paper displays integrated into Tolar’s Sunset Shelters, complete with agency branding and custom powder-coated finishes. We also provided solar-powered RMS 80F bus shelter lighting. The goal was simple: create a reliable, easy-to-adopt solution that improves convenience for riders and supports Santa Maria’s long-term vision for a modernized transit network.
Making Transit Information More Reliable, Safe & Equitable
As Santa Maria continued to expand and modernize its transit network, riders needed clearer, more consistent information at the stop level. Existing shelters lacked both adequate lighting and real-time updates, which created uncertainty for passengers — especially during early mornings and dark evenings.
The agency also needed a solution that wouldn’t strain existing infrastructure or require complicated retrofits. Above all, they wanted a system that could evolve with new technology while remaining cost-effective and simple to maintain.
Smart, Transit Amenities Built for Smooth Integration & Flexibility
To address Santa Maria Regional Transit’s goals for safety, convenience, and real-time information, we provided a suite of integrated solutions designed for durability, ease of installation, and long-term reliability.
13” E-Paper Displays
Vandal resistant signage displays provide clear real-time information, 5+ years of battery life without replacements and a fully battery-powered system that doesn’t rely on solar or grid power.
RMS 80F Solar Shelter Lighting
Retrofit hardware paired with integrated LED solar lighting to improve safety, visibility and ease of deployment while keeping maintenance simple and cost-effective.
Tolar Sunset Shelters
Seamless integration with Tolar Sunset Shelters, enabling quick installation, consistent branding and a clean, professional look across the network.
Tangible Outcomes for a Unified Transit Network
The project’s completion in November 2024 led to immediate and positive impacts including:
Real-Time Information
13” e-paper displays deliver clear, up-to-date transit schedules and alerts, improving rider convenience and confidence at every stop.
Elevated Passenger Safety
RMS 80F integrated LED lighting enhances shelter visibility during nighttime hours, creating safer environments for passengers and reducing risk.
Long-Lasting Performance
Fully battery-powered e-paper displays have maintained 89% battery health after 1 year, putting the system on track for approximately 9 years of operation without replacements — minimizing maintenance and operational costs.
About Urban Solar
Urban Solar is the North American market leader in off-grid lighting and amenities for bus stops. Since 2008, Urban Solar solutions have enhanced safety and rider experience at over 30,000 bus stops across North America.