Simi Valley Approves New Transit Center

The city will construct a solar-powered transit hub at 627 Tapo Canyon Road using a $7 million state grant.

Updated on Oct. 16, 2026 in Electric Vehicles

Isometric editorial illustration of a modern solar-powered transit canopy structure, depicting a new infrastructure project. — The Simi Valley Planning Commission approved a $7 million solar-powered transit hub at 627 Tapo Canyon Road to improve traffic flow. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should the city prioritize transit expansion even if it means removing local historic trees?

The Simi Valley Planning Commission has approved the construction of a new transit center located at 627 Tapo Canyon Road. Funded by a $7 million state grant, the project aims to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety while providing charging infrastructure for electric buses.

Why it matters

By moving buses off Tapo Canyon Road and installing wireless charging capabilities, the city expects to improve local traffic flow and support the transition to an electrified public transportation fleet.

The site will feature a 5,275-square-foot solar canopy covering eight bus bays equipped with wireless chargers. Construction requires removing 21 of the existing 33 trees, leaving only six orange and six sycamore trees on the lot.

The players

Simi Valley Planning Commission

This municipal body is responsible for land-use policy and the approval of public and private development projects within the city.

Simi Valley Transit

This local agency operates the public bus system serving the city and will oversee the routes integrated into the new facility.

The details

The facility is designed to host three city transit routes and includes a bus-only entrance on Tapo Canyon Road with additional access from Avenida Simi. The project successfully bypassed the city's Mature Tree Preservation Ordinance and qualifies for an exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act.

1904: Southern Pacific Railroad reaches Simi Valley.
1917: Tapo Citrus Association packing house is constructed.
1978: The site is designated as a Ventura County landmark.
October 7, 2026: Planning Commission approves the transit center.

Roadmap

This transit center project highlights the broader integration of green energy infrastructure into municipal public transportation systems. It follows the California Environmental Quality Act framework, reflecting a wider trend of cities upgrading transit hubs to support electric bus wireless charging.

Residents should anticipate changes to traffic patterns near the intersection of Tapo Canyon Road and Avenida Simi once construction begins. Commuters utilizing public transit can look forward to upgraded facilities specifically designed to accommodate electric bus routes.

The takeaway

This development marks a significant shift toward modernizing local public transit through renewable energy integration. Residents can monitor future city council agendas for project timelines regarding the construction and eventual transition of transit routes.