Petaluma Biz Steps in to Save Sonoma-San Francisco Commuter Bus

For years, the Valley of the Moon Commute Club has ferried people between Sonoma and San Francisco. But in December, the company said it would be terminating the route, due to decreased ridership and higher gas costs.

But after reading a about the plight, one Petaluma business has stepped up to the plate, vowing to continue the service, even as they lose money on it. 

"We’ve been in this (Sonoma) community for 20 years, and the community has supported us," said Gary Buffo, who owns the Petaluma-based Pure Luxury Wine Tours, along with his wife, Jennifer. "I thought, 'If we can make something work and not lose too much money it would be good to give back.'"

Starting today, the Buffos will run the commuter bus from downtown Sonoma to various locations in San Francisco once a day, leaving from from Sonoma at 6am and returning after 4pm. They have also promised to drop prices: regular commuters will pay $325 per month, rather than the $350 the club charged before. Single trips will cost $15. 

There is also talk of creating a similar commuter bus between Petaluma and San Francisco. To deal with skyrocketing gas prices, Pure Luxury will use newer diesel engines on their buses, which provide between 11-14 miles per gallons-- good for a large vehicle. Still, the Buffos expect to lose money on the commuter--between $1,000 and $2,000 per month.

"It was big, it’s a big sacrifice for him, but he’s just the nicest guy and he’s willing to do it for the good of Sonoma," said Pattie O’Connor, who moved to Sonoma four months ago and will be using the service. 

To the Buffos, the bus is another way to help, by keeping extra cars off the road and commuters less frazzled.

"Our main focus with this isn’t to make money, it’s to break even and keep everyone commuting," said Jennifer Buffo.