It hasn’t all been fun and “research” since the Park-2-Park Shuttle took a little time away. We’ve been taking in the comments, working on the service and–of course–working to encourage new business participants to promote with us so we can keep the service going and bring it back even better. Well, going into weekend number 2 of Operation KeepTheShuttle we thought it would be a good time for a bit of a progress report to announce our full SUMMER SERVICE…
The most important news: We officially launch on July 2nd at 7:00p.m. and run until 1:00p.m. (Yes, we have responded to those who wanted us to keep the days and times fixed–thanks for that feedback). We’ll do that every Friday and Saturday through Labor Day! Along the way, we may add service (e.g. toying with a University Heights concerts service that start at 5:00 or a kiddies “sweet treat” window that lets parents get great deals on sweets and get the kids out for a bit on the early side–but those details will come. Bottom line, if you want to plan something for July 4th weekend, or July 11th weekend, or August 6th weekend, or whatever, you can.
Here’s a note about our route partners (we adore these places and have personally eaten multiple items at each–except Bluefoot, but we’ve consumed there, too)
We’ve been hard at work looking for businesses and advertisers (no really, not just “research”, actually pounding the pavement, too). As a result, our business partners are:
- Alchemy
- Station Tavern
- Bluefoot Bar & Lounge
- Redwing Bar & Grill
- Soho Restaurant & Lounge
- The Lafayette Hotel
Unfortunately, we lost Blind Lady Ale House and The Linkery for now, but hopefully with time we’ll become a good option for them and earn their support. Our goal is to find at least two more businesses who want to sign on for the month of July, if you happen to be friends with any local business owners (especially over in University Heights) please mention us next time you speak.
Change gon’ come
In response to alot of great feedback, we are looking at making some important changes:
1. We’ll have a printable “pocket” timetable you can fold up and take with you.
2. We’ll put a calendar of events on our page that let’s you find out what other events are going on and our complete summer operating schedule through Labor Day Weekend. (We’ll even have some suggested itineraries for those of you who like a little help planning)
3. We will run from 7:00pm – 1:00am and the shuttles will start and end in South Park and Normal Heights (at the ends).
4. “Ground” promotion. You’ll see us handing out information at various locations around the neighborhoods. Please tell your friends we aren’t selling vacuums or Amway products.
5. Combination promotions. Whether its dinner at Alchemy and drinks at Bluefoot or dinner at Soho and a nightcap at Redwing, we will be working with our partners and others who know the neighborhoods like SD Urban, Urbanist Guide, Holiday Matinee, Walk the Walk Presents, and Nighttime VIP to create more value for our riders and our business partners.
6. New hosts. Erin and I will have a little more help. Whether it’s an ambassador from one of our local restaurants or friends or family or people we pay (anyone looking for some cool part-time work?), we are going to space things out a little.
What to do now?
BUY.A.PASS!!! Seriously, click here and buy a whole month for $25 – this price is available online only for a limited time (PLUS – we are throwing in special 30th on 30th service between Alchemy and Adams for FREE) We also offer a 6-pack for $20 that you can use all for yourself or share. And a special volunteer deal–if you volunteer for a neighborhood group or advisory committee in the area you get 2-for-1. Just buy one pass and hop on, we’ll have the rosters of all the community groups by July 2nd.
30th on 30th Note
We will run ONE shuttle from Alchemy (down at Beech in South Park) to Adams. If you buy a monthly pass, the ride is free. Otherwise it’s the normal rate. We’ll run from 6 to 10 so people can enjoy the specials but still get to bed at a decent hour on a school night. If you’ve got any questions, please ask away.