Public Transportation
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SamTrans
SamTrans makes it easy to get to and from Cañada College with direct, reliable service. The campus is served by route 278 that connects to Caltrain and downtown Redwood City.
Through partnerships with local agencies, students may also qualify for reduced or free transit programs, making SamTrans one of the most affordable ways to reach campus. Whether you are commuting daily, attending evening classes, or visiting on weekends, SamTrans offers a convenient and sustainable option for the Cañada College community.
For detailed route information, please view or download the #278 Route Map PDF's from the SamTrans website. For all routes, please visit the SamTrans schedules and maps webpage. Call 1-800-660-4BUS for schedules and routes as not all buses run every day or check online for current route and schedule information.
Unlimited SamTrans Bus Pass (Way2Go)
In partnership with SamTrans, SparkPoint offers free Way2Go passes for students. Way2Go passes offer unlimited bus service on any SamTrans bus at any time for an unlimited number of times.
Complete a Way2Go Bus Pass application to request a Way2Go bus pass on a first-come, first-served basis.
Students must be enrolled in at least one unit at Cañada College, College of San Mateo, or Skyline College to qualify.
The bus pass is valid through August 31, 2026. For questions about this program, please contact SparkPoint.
SamTrans On-Demand Service (Ride Plus)
Ride Plus is SamTrans’s shared, on-demand van service, designed to connect riders with SamTrans bus routes for travel beyond the service zone:
- Service Type: Shared, on-demand vans (up to 7 passengers + 1 wheelchair, or 10 passengers depending on vehicle)
- Connections: Connects with SamTrans bus routes for travel outside the zone
- Pricing: The same as regular SamTrans bus fare — Clipper, cash, and passes are accepted. Free 2-hour bus transfers with Clipper or the SamTrans app.
How to Use Ride Plus
- Download the SamTrans Ride Plus app (App Store or Google Play) or call (650) 785-6100.
- Enter pickup and drop-off locations within the service zone.
- Track your ride in real time in the app.
- Show booking confirmation when boarding.
For more information on Ride Plus, visit the SamTrans Ride Plus site.
Transportation Support with Free College
Under the Free College program, you may qualify for additional transportation support.
Students must first meet Free College Level 2 eligibility.
Those enrolled in 6 or more in-person or hybrid credits in the fall and/or spring semesters will receive $50 per month. Support must be claimed within the month it’s issued and cannot be carried over, and can be picked up on campus, at the Bookstore.
Fall: September-December; Spring: February-May.
Caltrain
Frequently Asked Questions
SamTrans FAQs
How much is SamTrans' fare?
See the SamTrans Fare page.
Where can I get discounted tokens?
You can purchase tokens at any Sale Outlet
Sale Outlet in Redwood City: Safeway Supermarket 1071 El Camino Real Phone: 306-1900
How do I use SamTrans?
SamTrans offers step-by-step guides to plan your trip:
What are the Holiday hours (SamTrans)?
During the Holidays SamTrans will follow Sunday Schedules.
Travel tips, for your safety.
Caltrain FAQs
How much is Caltrain's fare?
Caltrain Tickets are purchased by zones: Fare Chart
Where can I purchase tickets?
You can Purchase tickets at any ticket vending machine or Clipper Card.
How do I use Caltrain?
Caltrain offers step-by-step guides to plan your trip. How to Ride, Trip Planner
What are the Holiday Hours (Caltrain)?
During the Holidays Caltrain will follow Sunday Schedules
Your Safety and Security is important, be aware of your surroundings.
Clipper Card FAQs
Where can I receive a Clipper card?
You are able to order your card online just visit Clipper to see how. As soon as you receive your clipper card remember to Register your Card in case it gets lost or stolen. You are also able to receive your clipper card at any participating store. For a list of other participating stores visit Retail Locations.
Where can I add value to my Clipper Card?
You can add value to your Clipper card online, phone or in person at any participating store.
Participating Store in Redwood City: Whole Foods 1250 Jefferson Avenue Redwood City, CA 94062 Phone: 650-367-1400
How do I use my Clipper card?
Locate the Clipper card reader at the entrance of the transit vehicle, fare gates or station and hold your card flat against the Clipper logo until you hear a beep or the gates open. For more information visit How to use Clipper
Where can I use my Clipper card?
You can use your clipper card on all major Bay Area transit services: Muni, BART, AC Transit, Caltrain, SamTrans, VTA and Golden Gate Transit and Ferry and San Francisco Bay Ferry. For more information about transits visit Where to use Clipper page.
For more information visit Clipper FAQ's.