New downtown lunch shuttle up and running in Montgomery

MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - There's a new shuttle up and running in downtown Montgomery, specifically for the lunch crowd. It's called 'U-Go Montgomery"—a six-seat gym cart operating between the hours of 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

"It's pretty simple," said owner and driver David Sadler. "We are kind of reaching back in history and playing off the old Lightning Route."

The route he is referring to runs along what was the first city-wide system of streetcars in Montgomery.  It goes up and down Dexter Avenue and over to Commerce Street

"Now people don't have to go to their cars, drive to the restaurant, find a parking spot, pay a meter, and then rush back to the office. It takes a process that could take up to 30-35 minutes, down to an easy 5 minute ride," Sadler explained.

"It's an infrastructure that we desperately need. And it's something that is quick and simple," said Clay McInnis.

McInnis, the President of the Downtown Business Association, says it's a win-win for everyone involved.

It allows downtown workers to quickly grab a bite to eat, and it will help downtown restaurants will get more lunchtime business.

"You're talking about a service that is going to bring speed, convenience, and a great experience to the workers downtown," added McInnis.

Because it's run by a private company, there is no cost associated for the city. There's no cost to the riders either, except for an optional tip for the driver. It will be supported by advertisements on the shuttle itself.

"We are going to run consistently up and down Dexter and Commerce so people can see us, and start to identify this gym cart with lunch," said Sadler.

He's hoping to take his new idea along for a ride to fill a gap in downtown transportation.

There will be dedicated stops for the shuttle on Dexter and Commerce. In between, you can just wave down the shuttle to hop on, or you can request a ride at 334-538-6383.

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