Volusia County’s public transportation agency, Votran, has officially rebranded its paratransit service, formerly known as Votran Gold, to the new name VoAccess. The change, which includes updated branding and visual identity, has sparked questions from riders and community members about its timing and purpose. In response, we reached out to Votran’s leadership to verify the reasons behind the rebrand and to learn more about what it means for the future of transit in the county.
According to Votran officials, the rebranding is purely cosmetic. “The recent rebranding of Votran Gold is simply a new look, a new name, nothing more,” the agency confirmed. While the name change itself does not reflect any immediate operational improvements, Votran emphasized that several upgrades are planned and already underway—changes that could significantly impact rider experience and service efficiency.
One of the most notable improvements is the introduction of a new scheduling software for VoAccess users. This system will allow riders to request trips online or through a mobile app, and also pay for their rides in advance. The move toward digital scheduling and payment options is expected to streamline the booking process and make the service more accessible to a broader range of users. Votran anticipates these features will be available before the end of the year.
In addition to the software upgrade, Votran is preparing to launch a new microtransit service called VoRide. This service will operate in several areas on the east side of Volusia County and offer same-day, on-demand trips. Officials say this type of flexible transit has been a long-standing request from riders, and its implementation could help alleviate pressure on the VoAccess system. Currently, VoAccess faces high demand and limited resources, resulting in frequent delays and scheduling inconsistencies. Many riders are unable to secure their preferred travel times, and some are even turned away due to capacity constraints.
Votran believes that as riders begin to use VoRide for more spontaneous travel needs, availability on VoAccess will improve. The agency is also working with a new operations contractor to retrain scheduling staff, ensuring they are fully equipped to use the new systems and maximize efficiency. These efforts are aimed at improving service reliability and better meeting the needs of the community.
Infrastructure improvements have also been a focus for Votran. All bus stops in incorporated areas of Volusia County that could be made ADA accessible and accommodate shelters or seating have already been upgraded. However, not all stops are eligible for enhancements due to state regulations. Factors such as right-of-way limitations, road speed, and location constraints prevent the installation of amenities like benches and shelters at certain sites. Within city limits, bus stop maintenance and upgrades are typically handled by the municipalities themselves, sometimes in partnership with advertising companies.
Votran’s commitment to customer service and community engagement remains central to its operations. The agency tracks all customer complaints and accommodations through its service teams and regularly seeks public input on service changes through community meetings and feedback cards. These channels help Votran stay responsive to rider concerns and adapt its services to meet evolving needs.
While the VoAccess rebrand may be a surface-level change, it comes at a time when Votran is actively working to modernize and expand its services. With new technology, flexible transit options, and a renewed focus on accessibility and efficiency, the agency is positioning itself to better serve Volusia County’s diverse and growing population.
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