78.5% of voters reject withdrawal, affirming community’s connection
Converse voters have elected to remain in the VIA Metropolitan Transit system, with 78.5% voting against withdrawal in the final election results.
“We’re grateful to Converse voters for this clear vote of confidence,” VIA Board Chair Laura Cabanilla said. “Reliable transportation connects employers to the workforce they need, gives residents access to opportunity and supports the business expansion that keeps our region competitive. Converse’s decision is an investment in our shared economic future, and we’re proud to continue that work together.”
VIA continues to invest in service improvements and regional connectivity. Those efforts have contributed to approximately 2.7 million additional trips this year, compared to the same period in 2025. The VIA Rapid Green Line, now under construction, and Silver Line, which is in design, will further strengthen connections across the region, create new opportunities for residents and businesses and drive increased ridership.
“This is a tremendous affirmation of the value our community sees in VIA and the role public transportation plays in our region’s future,” President & CEO Jon Gary Herrera said. “We’re grateful to the Converse voters who recognize the importance of staying connected and to the customers who count on us every day. VIA is helping drive this region’s growth, and we’re proud to have Converse remain part of that momentum. We’re just getting started.”
Across the regional system, through regular rider surveys, customer satisfaction remains high — some 88% of riders are satisfied with their VIA experience.
The agency remains committed to listening to customers, strengthening service and building a transit network that supports the region’s continued growth. VIA is focused on our mission to take you to what matters most. We look forward to continuing that work with Converse as part of the region’s shared future.
