SmartCommute by VTA
ABOUT – In April 2023, VTA launched the "SmartCommute" program, a community initiative to encourage ridership and/or micro-transit travel to work or school in exchange for fun prizes. Throughout the year, the marketing campaign evolved into a full brand with something for the community to look forward to.
MY ROLE – Lead Designer and Marketing Activation Support (filming social content)
Final Logo
In order to test the waters, the first activation for this campaign was an internal employee challenge in February 2024, before launching to the public in April 2024.
The Creation of the SmartCommute Mascot
In September 2024, to celebrate Transit Month, Trex (who you'll meet shortly) was created as the mascot of the program. This new cartoon dinosaur made appearances across posters, social media, and IRL riding VTA.
On the left, are my initial sketches of a potential mascot. In the middle is the finalized version of Trex, and on the right is the Trex is a vacation of him sporting a baby-tee that reads "Take Transit."
Transit Month Tabling Banner
Social Media Graphics + Stickers
Holiday Season Campaign
Every holiday season, the VTA marketing team funds a bus wrap to foster the holiday spirit amongst front line employees and riders alike. This year, I wanted to be most inclusive for a design that younger kids could appreciate the most. December 2024 is when Trex introduced his other dinosaur friends: Scout, Perri, and Teddy, who are all rocking holiday garb on these vehicle wraps.
Trex and Friends Illustrations in their holiday attire
In addition to the bus and light rail, Trex and his friends were featured on VTA's tree at San Jose's community event, "Christmas in the Park."
