City launches free barrier island shuttle service

Pompano Beach – A new public transportation option on the city’s barrier island will be available starting April 26.

The City of Pompano Beach, using an $833,000 matching grant from the Florida Department of Transportation, has launched Pompano Circuit, a free electric shuttle. Operating the service is Circuit Transit, Inc.

The service will operate mostly on the barrier island, east of the Intracoastal, from Terra Mar Drive north to the Hillsboro Inlet Bridge.

West of the Intracoastal, the service area runs along Atlantic Boulevard to McNab Park, as far south as Southeast 2 Street and as far north as Northeast 2 Street.

The four shuttles can each accommodate up to four passengers at a time [there is no minimum number] and will operate Sunday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Riders can use the “Ride Circuit” app to request a pick up or wave down a passing shuttle.

“This free shuttle service will add to Pompano Beach’s revitalization for a vibrant, safe and more enjoyable community,” said Mayor Rex Hardin in a statement released by the city. “It gets people out and about Pompano Beach without having to drive, and I think that’s just what we need right now in our community.”

To help fund the shuttle service, the city will also sell advertising [vehicle wraps].

The shuttle service begins as new restaurants are opening at the Pompano Beach Fishing Village, located next to the city’s pier. Transporting people to shopping and dining destinations is one of the purposes of the shuttle, states the city in its press release.

Lucky Fish Beach Bar and Grill, confectionary chain Kilwins and Alvin’s Island, a beach-themed gift shop, have opened their doors at the Pompano Beach Fishing Village. According to its website, BurgerFi will open in the village this month.

Interior work for the last space, Cannoli Kitchen, is still being performed. It’s unclear when the Italian restaurant will open.