Freebee Ride Share Service Launches in Virginia Beach June 17

​The City of Virginia Beach has partnered with Miami-based Freebee ride share service to provide residents and visitors to the oceanfront a new free public transportation option. As part of the City's Resort Area Mobility Plan (RAMP), which calls for enhanced shared mobility services in the resort area, the City is funding the Freebee ride service for a one-year pilot program to gauge its usage.

Starting this Friday, June 17, residents and visitors can conveniently ride around the resort area in the comfort and luxury of the Freebee all-electric Tesla Model X vehicles, which will operate seven days a week, from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and are available to everyone. The pilot program service area is bounded by Atlantic Avenue in the east, Birdneck Road in the west, 42nd Street in the north, and General Booth Boulevard in the south.

Users can access a Freebee ride in three easy steps:

• Download the Freebee mobile app
• Request a pickup to your destination, and
• Enjoy your FREE ride!
  

"It's a priority for the City to provide alternative public transportation options for residents and visitors to conveniently access everything the resort area has to offer," said Robert Fries, Virginia Beach parking manager. "Freebee's proven success in South Florida made it a natural fit to pilot in Virginia Beach, and the logistical and environmental benefits of the service will hopefully further enhance the oceanfront experience for users."

In addition to being FREE to all users, the Freebee service will help to minimize single-occupancy vehicle use, reduce traffic congestion, free up limited parking availability and help the local economy by physically driving customers to the front doors of local businesses. The 100% electric vehicles promote clean energy and reduce carbon emissions.

"The no-cost convenience for riders makes Freebee a sensible option for getting around," said Jason Spiegel, managing partner of Freebee. "We're excited to launch the service in one of the most popular destinations on the East Coast."

Freebee currently operates a fleet of over 100 vehicles, serving over 25 communities throughout South Florida, including Miami and St. Pete Beach. Virginia Beach is the first location outside of Florida to provide the service. During the one-year pilot program, the City is investing $550,000 to fund five vehicles operating 12 hours a day. Operating hours will be adjusted seasonally.

Download the Freebee mobile app available on the App Store or on Google Play. Users in need of accessibility accommodations or who do not have a smartphone, can call (855) 918-3733 to request a ride.

For more information, visit RideFreebee.com or vbgov.com/Freebee.