Charlottesville, VA, MAY 13, 2026 — PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Jaunt, Central Virginia’s regional public transportation provider, is celebrating 50 years of service with the launch of a refreshed visual brand that honors its history while looking ahead to the future of regional mobility.
The new brand builds on Jaunt’s core values of People, Service, and Connection. Its centerpiece is a reimagined logo in which the “A” in Jaunt transforms from a bus into a letter — an ode to Jaunt’s legacy and a clearer vision forward, symbolizing the movement, service, and people that have defined the organization since 1975.
The updated identity was developed through a participatory process that included a Communications Advisory Group made up of key riders and community partners, alongside extensive internal and external surveys. The goal was straightforward: make Jaunt’s brand more vibrant, welcoming, and reflective of the care that guides its work — and make its services easier to recognize and navigate across the region.
“This brand refresh started with listening,” said Mike Murphy, CEO. “Through our Communications Advisory Group and extensive community surveys, we heard a clear message: care is at the heart of what Jaunt does. This new brand is our commitment to make sure that shows up in everything we do. We’re grateful to everyone who was part of this process. This brand belongs to this community.”
For five decades, Jaunt has connected residents across Central Virginia to healthcare, employment, education, and daily life. What began as a human service transportation provider has grown into a regional public transit system serving urban and rural communities throughout the region.
“Jaunt is a critical part of how people in our region live their lives,” said Brad Burdette, Jaunt Board Chair. “Our goal is to build a strong team, put the right structure in place, and empower our staff to deliver.”
“Its work goes far beyond transportation alone,” said Kendall Howell, Assistant Director of Transportation at UVA and Jaunt Board Member. “Jaunt creates access, strengthens communities, and helps people stay connected to the services and relationships that shape quality of life. As mobility continues to evolve, Jaunt continues to play a meaningful leadership role in that future.”
As Jaunt marks this milestone year, the organization will share stories from riders, staff, operators, and community partners throughout the region — highlighting the many ways transportation supports independence, dignity, and connection in Central Virginia.
Community members are encouraged to follow Jaunt on social media, tag us when you spot a new bus, and visit ridejaunt.org for anniversary updates, service information, and ways to get involved
For ride bookings or customer support: Call (434) 296-3184.
Media inquiries: contact Milton Steppe at 434-297-2641 or email msteppe@ridejaunt.org.
Jaunt conducted a community survey from June 2-July 2, 2025. Nearly 800 responses were received. We appreciate everyone who took the time to respond; it helps, and your voice really matters to us. A summary of the results will be shared on this website and via social media announcements when it is ready.