[San Rafael, CA] - Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, Supervisor Charles McGlashan, Supervisor Steve Kinsey, Golden Gate Bridge, Highway & Transportation District Board of Directors President Maureen Middlebrook, and other dignitaries inaugurated the kick-off of Muir Woods shuttle bus service that provides visitors to the Muir Woods National Monument an alternative way to access the park when the parking lots are full. The inaugural event was held on Saturday, May 21st, 2005 at 12:30 p.m. at the Marin County Civic Center, Administration Archway.

Marin County Supervisor Charles McGlashan; California Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey; Marin County Supervisor Steve Kinsey; and Golden Gate Bridge, Highway, and Transportation District Board of Directors President Maureen Middlebrook

The shuttle service has been in operation since 2005 and currently runs during the peak summer season on weekends and holidays from May to September and costs $3 to ride for adults and $1 for youth (6-18), seniors (65+) and persons with disabilities.

New Muir Woods Shuttle Bus

"The County of Marin is extremely excited to get this service moving and test different service scenarios over the next few years," said Supervisor Charles McGlashan.

"Overall, it is the goal of the County to reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality in the Shoreline Highway corridor and provide sustainable access alternatives to this national treasure," Supervisor Steve Kinsey further added.

Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey, plus Marin County Supervisors, Marin County Department of Public Works, Marin County Department of Parks & Recreation, Golden Gate Bridge Highway & Transportation District, and National Parks Service officials

From 2005 to 2008, the shuttle bus service was provided by the County of Marin through a federal grant secured by Congresswoman Lynn Woolsey. The congresswoman noted that the idea for a shuttle has been discussed for several years and said, "The Muir Woods Shuttle project demonstrates how local government can develop solutions that benefit all. This project demonstrates how important it is that we continue to work together so that the shuttle service will do what we want - reduce congestion on our roadways in a cost effective and environmentally beneficial way."

In 2009, the shuttle service is provided by the Marin County Transit District as part of its local service in partnership with the National Park Service. This partnership is expected to continue to the year 2011 allowing time for various officials to look for permanent sources of funding to continue this service permanently.