Article Detail

April 01, 2025

YARTS Launches Modern Website with Enhanced Rider Support

A laptop on a café table displays the YARTS website, featuring a scenic photo of Yosemite Valley; a cup of coffee and a notebook are nearby.

The Yosemite Area Regional Transportation System (YARTS) has unveiled its new website, marking a significant step forward in providing accessible, reliable, and rider-focused digital services for communities across Merced, Mariposa, Mono, Tuolumne, and Fresno counties. The redesigned site enhances transparency and usability for residents, commuters, and visitors traveling to Yosemite National Park.

About the Client
YARTS serves as the public transit link to Yosemite Valley, connecting rural and urban communities along the Highway 140, 395, 120, and 41 corridors. Established as a Joint Powers Authority, the system is managed by the Merced County Association of Governments. Its mission is to deliver safe, sustainable, and affordable regional transit that reduces congestion, supports tourism, and preserves Yosemite’s natural environment by lowering the number of private vehicles entering the park.

Project Goals

  • Deliver uninterrupted website hosting and reliable maintenance services for daily operations.
  • Enhance access to real-time maps, schedules, and travel information for riders.
  • Provide ADA-compliant, mobile-friendly tools that serve diverse community needs.
  • Establish streamlined support and content management processes for YARTS staff.

Planeteria’s Solution
Planeteria Media partnered with YARTS to ensure a seamless digital experience built on WordPress. Hosting and maintenance solutions include proactive CMS and plugin updates, regular Google Analytics reporting, and a dedicated interactive map featuring trailheads and transit connections. ADA/WCAG compliance, mobile optimization, and strong security standards were central to the build. Unlimited staff support and training ensure the YARTS team can confidently manage schedules, alerts, and GTFS submissions to Google Transit.

Key Features & Functionality

  • Interactive map at map.yarts.com with transit stops.
  • Real-time schedule updates and Google Transit integration through GTFS feeds.
  • Proactive WordPress CMS and plugin maintenance for secure hosting.
  • Monthly Google Analytics reports to track site traffic and rider engagement.
  • Unlimited staff support and on-call development assistance.
  • Emergency support within 24 hours to address critical system issues.
  • ADA/WCAG-compliant design for inclusive rider access.
  • Mobile-first design ensuring usability across all devices.

Project Highlights
The YARTS website is more than an information hub—it is a rider services platform designed for daily utility. From mobile-friendly bus schedules to interactive trip planning, the site reduces barriers to public transit use. The addition of 24/7 support and emergency response ensures riders and staff alike can rely on continuous service.

Looking Ahead
With its updated digital platform, YARTS is well positioned to serve a growing base of visitors and residents while advancing its environmental and community mission. Planeteria will continue to provide ongoing hosting, monitoring, and technical support, ensuring the system’s online presence evolves alongside the needs of riders and regional partners.

Visit the new website today at www.yarts.com

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