All-electric circuit shuttle BocaConnect makes getting around downtown a lot easier
Read Time 4 MinutesThe City of Boca Raton held a ribbon cutting on June 17th celebrating the new BocaConnect circuit bus.
Circuit Transit Inc. is an affordable (sometimes free), electric, micro-transit solution. Circuit uses fleets of nimble cars that fulfill the first-mile last-mile gap that’s experienced by municipalities around the world. The service is made possible by collaborating with municipal organizations and executing innovative out of home/experiential advertising campaigns with some of the world’s most recognizable brands. Co-founders Alexander Esposito, CEO, and James Mirras, COO, started Circuit as a fun and free beach shuttle in the Hamptons in 2011, then quickly partnered with Jason Bagley in Fort Lauderdale to expand the service into Florida markets. Since then, Circuit has grown to provide over 5 million rides to people across the country without burning an ounce of gas. The all-electric fleet of vehicles have given over 5 million rides in locations across eight different states – NY, FL, CA, NJ, CO, MA, IL and TX.
Circuit has been operating in the South Florida area for over 10 years, with services in Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Miami, Hollywood Beach, Palm Beach Gardens and Pompano Beach. With the help of innovative Cities, CRAS, private companies and national brands, Circuit is able to provide low-cost shuttle rides without emitting greenhouse gases. Circuit Transit aims to operate the best to bridge the first / last mile gap, connect riders to public transit, improve circulation, reduce congestion, and reduce parking issues. Circuit Transit also offers innovative out-of-home advertising opportunities promoting local economic development.
At a City Council meetig on April 9th, 2024, a contract was signed with with Circuit Transit Inc. to provide on-demand shuttle service in the City of Boca Raton downtown area and beyond. The new “Boca Connect” circuit shuttle will help with connectivity by offering the first-mile-last-mile rides within and around the downtown area and in the City. This will also be avaiable to those arriving at the Brightline Boca Raton Station located at 101 NW 4th St, Boca Raton, FL 33432 and nerby transporation hubs. Providing a convenient and sustainable multimodal transportation service for the community falls under the City’s strategic goal of improving mobility and connectivity across Boca Raton.
“We’re very excited to welcome Circuit. It’s a project in the making for over a year. It aligns with our strategic priorities of transportation and mobility so anytime you can offer residents, neighborhoods another way of moving around, a multimodal option, which is Circuit, it’s a great day,” shared Yvette Drucker, Deputy Mayor of Boca Raton, during the ribbon-cutting event. “We want people to get out, less traffic and it also helps our environment so we’re really, really excited to offer another option.”
Deputy Mayor Drucker later shared a social media post highlighting the benefits of such a service in the City, “It’s so exciting to move forward with this initiative that can reduce traffic congestion and make our city more innovative. It’s a win-win for our neighborhoods and our downtown and I’m pleased to be part of it. Download the app and begin riding the circuit let me know how you like it.”
The shuttle service began June 17, 2024 and the initial contract spans one year, during which Circuit and City staff will conduct regular assessments to optimize operations and service coverage. Circuit’s mobile app allows users to request rides, just like other ride-sharing companies. However, a ride with Circuit is a fraction of the cost. Riders can download the Circuit app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, to request a ride with just a few clicks. Ditch the car and catch a ride to and from Boca Raton’s favorite spots like the Museum of Art, Royal Palm Place, Mizner Park, and more.
“The Boca Chamber is so excited to have Circuit now in our downtown community,” said Boca Chamber CEO and President Troy McLellan, as he shares his excitment during the ribbon cutting ceremony. “Circuit solves the problem of connectivity for everyone is Boca Raton. For citizens, tourists and, of course, our employees, moving them from their home to their business and from their home to all the amazing amenities Boca Raton has to offer. Welcome Circuit to Boca Raton!”
“Getting around Downtown Boca just got a whole lot easier. Join us in welcoming Circuit to our beautiful city,” shared Jessica DelVecchio, Economic Development Manager of Boca Raton.
For more informationon BocaConnect, visit https://myboca.us/2460/BocaConnect—Circuit-Shuttle
