The City of Mount Dora is launching a new, free parking shuttle service in partnership with Freebee, beginning on Friday, October 4. This initiative follows the City Council’s approval of a one-year pilot shuttle program aimed at improving transportation and parking in the downtown area. The service will operate two electric shuttles on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. within the Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) boundary, helping to alleviate parking congestion and provide an eco-friendly transportation option for residents and visitors.

“This FREE shuttle service will operate within our downtown, making it easier for you to explore all that Mount Dora has to offer without the hassle of parking,” a press release said. “Simply summon the shuttle at your convenience anywhere within the service area, and enjoy your time in our beautiful city!”

This program marks a significant step toward addressing parking and transportation issues downtown.

“We are more than just transportation,” Jason Spiegel, Managing Partner of Freebee, says. “We’re here to drive economic development, help local businesses, and promote everything the city has to offer.”

The shuttle service is expected to boost accessibility, reduce carbon emissions, and make it easier for people to explore the many attractions Mount Dora has to offer.

Key Details of the Free Parking Shuttle Service:

• Service Start Date: October 4
• Pilot Program Duration: One year, concluding in September 2025
• Service Days and Hours:
  • Friday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
  • Sunday: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• Service Area: Within the Community Redevelopment Area (CRA) boundary, including popular downtown destinations

Parking Locations for Shuttle Pick-Up:

• City Hall: 510 N Baker Street
• First United Methodist Church: 428 E 5th Avenue
• Parking Garage: 250 N Donnelly Street
• Tremain Street Parking Lot: 225 N Tremain Street
• 3rd & Baker Parking Lot: 210 E 3rd Avenue
• 3rd & Donnelly Parking Lot: 300 N Donnelly Street
• 4th & Baker Parking Lot: 400 N Baker Street
• 4th & Alexander Parking Lot: 400 Alexander Street
• 5th & Baker Parking Lot: 481 N Baker Street
• First Baptist Church: 1000 E 1st Avenue
• Highland & Liberty Parking Lot: 853 Liberty Avenue
• Boat Ramp/Lighthouse Parking Lot: 417 S Tremain Street
• Palm Island Parking Lot: 411 South Tremain Street
• Gilbert Park: 310 S Tremain Street

Shuttle Features:

• Electric Vehicles: The two shuttles are fully electric, contributing to Mount Dora’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
• Wheelchair Accessibility: An additional vehicle is designed to accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring equitable access for all riders.
• On-Demand Service: Riders can request a shuttle via a mobile app, dispatch center, or by flagging down a vehicle.
• Free Advertising: Local businesses will receive free exposure in the Freebee app, helping to promote downtown commerce.

Freebee shuttles are equipped with both inward and outward-facing video cameras, and drivers undergo rigorous background checks, drug testing, and training. The service will also feature real-time shuttle tracking and a comprehensive data collection process, including performance reports and heat mapping, to assess the effectiveness of the shuttle service and make necessary adjustments throughout the year.

The program is funded through the CRA budget, with the potential for future grants to support its expansion. The City Council will review the program’s success at the end of the year-long pilot, determining whether to extend the contract for an additional two years.

With unanimous City Council approval and strong community support, the Mount Dora Freebee shuttle service is expected to enhance downtown accessibility, reduce transportation-related emissions, and foster economic growth. The city is excited about the positive impact this program will bring to residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.