Topline:
Irvine will launch a free shuttle service on Monday, called Irvine CONNECT, that will connect residents and visitors with key destinations like Irvine Spectrum, the Irvine train station and the Lakeview Senior Center.
The logistics: Irvine CONNECT will run from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends at 20-minute intervals. The bus can hold 25 people at a time with seven shuttles earmarked for the program.
The shuttles will be wheelchair and other mobility-aids accessible. The shuttle will not operate on holidays.
How was the route decided: According to Mike Davis, the city’s transit and active transportation administrator, the route was decided based on a study the city council undertook.
“This route had the best potential to assist the most people,” he said.
Funding for the shuttle: Davis said the free shuttle service is being funded through an agreement the city has with the Orange County Transportation Authority. The funds were earmarked for a rail project that was never realized. The remaining 10% of funds will come from the city.
Timeframe: The free shuttle service pilot program will run for a year starting April 1 until March 31, 2025.
“If it's successful, which I expect it to be and hope it will be, I think our city council will extend the service, and provide that 10% funding on a more permanent basis down the road,” Davis said.