Oakland Considering Expansion Of Free Downtown Shuttle
OAKLAND (AP) - A free downtown Oakland shuttle is a big success, and officials are considering expanding the service to draw more visitors to the area.
The "Free B" shuttle runs along Broadway through downtown from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Friday.
When it launched in August, officials had a target of 1,500 passengers per day, and the most recent survey found an average of 1,900 riders. Some businesses along the route also have reported more foot traffic.
The shuttle is funded by a $1 million grant from the Bay Area Air Quality Management District, as well as private donations and other grants. Officials are now applying for more grants to expand the hours so the shuttles also can run from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
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