Santiago’s public transportation system has taken a significant step forward with the formal integration of the Metropolitan Bus Services Office (OMSA) into the Integrated Transportation System (SIT).
The introduction of 23 new buses, to operate on designated corridors, allows passengers to access both buses and the cable car with a single payment of RD$35 (approximately US$0.60). The buses are equipped with GPS systems, video surveillance cameras, and direct connection to the National Emergency System 911. These units join 16 already in operation, bringing the total to 39.
The vehicles will service feeder routes to and from the Santiago cable car’s Terminal Two, expanding the SIT network to over 100 miles (162 kilometers). The new buses have accessibility features, including ramps for passengers with mobility disabilities, positioning them as part of the most modern bus fleet in the Dominican Republic.
The announcement was made by Presidential Minister José Ignacio Paliza and OMSA’ general manager Radhamés González at a ceremony held at the SIT central terminal, attended by municipal authorities, government representatives, and executives.
This measure, which will later include the monorail currently under construction, aims to provide Santiago residents with a modern, safe, efficient, and affordable transportation alternative, improving urban mobility and reducing travel costs for thousands of citizens.
The new system allows for seamless connections. The integrated fare system allows for up to two transfers within the network, with a 90-minute time limit between modes. This means a passenger can board an OMSA bus, connect to the cable car, and complete their journey on another bus – all covered by the initial RD$35 payment. Payments will be exclusively electronic via rechargeable cards.
During the ceremony, Minister Paliza also confirmed the monorail’s construction is progressing well and will be integrated into the SIT before year-end. This addition will complement the existing network, enabling citizens to move smoothly throughout the city.
Additionally, reformed union-operated corridors, such as those on Duarte Avenue and in Gurabo, and soon on 27 de Febrero Avenue, will be incorporated under the same integrated system.
Santiago Mayor Ulises Rodríguez celebrated the launch of the integrated system as a historic event marking a new era for collective transportation in the city and a significant step forward.
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El Caribe
2 June 2025