The West Palm Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will extend its sponsorship of the free Circuit shuttle program through the end of September 2022. Since the DDA launched its pilot program on October 18, Circuit has reported a 200-percent increase in ridership, positive feedback from passengers, reduced city traffic and emissions, and increased efficiency of downtown parking. The initial pilot project was scheduled to run through the end of this week.
The Circuit on-demand electric shuttle offers free, convenient rides throughout downtown West Palm Beach and the Town of Palm Beach.
“We’re constantly looking for opportunities to reduce congestion and get people out of their cars,” said DDA executive director Raphael Clemente. “Through both the Circuit shuttle and the Downtown Trolley, we’re giving residents and visitors options to make it easier to enjoy what downtown has to offer.”
Rides can be scheduled through the Circuit smartphone app available. The service is available 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursday and Friday; 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday.
The Circuit was founded in 2011 by James Miras and West Palm Beach resident Alexander Esposito. The service employs 100-percent electric vehicles to offer a first-mile/last-mile transportation option that is convenient, easy to use, and cost effective. Thanks to the DDA’s sponsorship, free rides are available between any two locations within the Circuit zone. Gratuities for Circuit drivers are appreciated but not required.
“As a business owner and resident of downtown West Palm Beach, I couldn’t be more excited about expanding Circuit’s services,” said Esposito. “With the help of the DDA, our amazing team of local drivers and a growing list of loyal riders, we’re excited to help make downtown West Palm Beach an easier place to get around, while reducing congestion and emissions along the way.”
The Circuit shuttle and Downtown Trolley are just two of many DDA initiatives aimed at improving downtown life and supporting downtown businesses. Other programs include the Downtown Clean Team, the Security Ambassadors, a homeless outreach program, and business development grants.
Facebook Comments