HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif.—The city of Huntington Beach launched a new pilot program on July 13 that offers free rides to popular downtown destinations.
The five-month program, which will run through December, features five low-speed electric shuttles designed by Circuit. Downtown Huntington Beach-goers can hitch a lift through the Ride Circuit smartphone app, or by flagging down a ride.
Popular stops include the Huntington Beach Pier, Main Street, Pacific City, Hyatt Regency, Paséa Hotel, and more. Users can get a ride to anywhere within the downtown coverage area; those requesting a car by smartphone can expect to wait 8 to 10 minutes.
“We’re thrilled to launch the Huntington Beach Circuit car pilot program, bringing Huntington Beach residents and visitors a new way to cruise around downtown Surf City,” Huntington Beach Mayor Pro Tem Barbara Delgleize said at the launch.
Huntington Beach isn’t the first city to launch the new transportation tool; Circuit shuttles are operating in more than 20 cities nationwide, including East Hampton, Long Island, and San Diego.
The service prides itself on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and will encourage visitors to “park once” and then explore the rest of what the downtown area has to offer.
There will be four standard shuttles and one that caters to those with disabilities. Each shuttle can travel up to 80 miles on a single charge. The shuttles can hold up to six adults at a time, including the driver.
“We feel confident that this pilot program will help improve the quality of life within our city from the micro-mobility to the environment, while adding yet another amenity to the downtown Surf City that stands out as one of the favorite summer destinations,” Delgleize said.
Circuit director of operations Daniel Kramer thanked the city for its work in making the service possible.
“Circuit as a company started about 10 years ago in New York. [It was a] small town issue looking to connect people from parking lots to the beach, getting them out of their personal vehicles and doing so in an eco-friendly way,” Kramer said. “And that’s what we’re here to do in Huntington Beach. I’m personally excited because this is my hometown and ... it’s just great to see here in Huntington Beach where we have a need for it.”
The shuttle service will run Mondays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
