BellHop is Here to Stay

Since its 2023 introduction, the free, 100% electric transportation service most commmonly known as BellHop, has become a well-loved fixture of the community. With the click of a button using the Circuit app, riders can request a shuttle to whisk them anywhere within Downtown Bellevue. As it continues to rise in popularity, the on-demand ride resource has officially gained permanent status. This step marks another success in the city’s commitment to sustainable, environmentally friendly, and accessible transit options.

BellHop was originally a short-term pilot program by Visit Bellevue. Now, partners Amazon, the City of Bellevue, and the Tourism Promotion Area have committed to sustained investments ensuring BellHop’s future. These efforts align with Bellevue’s Environmental Stewardship Plan, which aims to reduce city-wide greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030 and operate on 100% renewable energy by 2050. These goals are designed with Bellevue’s status as a “City in a Park” in mind, keeping the area healthy for residents and visitors alike. Since its conception, BellHop has provided 47,200 rides to 67,827 passengers, saving an estimated 62.6 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. That’s equivalent to 7,041 gallons of gasoline!

"Sustainable mobility is a priority for Bellevue’s environmental strategy, and BellHop has proven to be a vital clean energy transportation solution for our workforce, residents, and community to complete essential tasks like grocery shopping, traveling to workplaces, and accessing medical appointments," said Bellevue Mayor Lynne Robinson in a June 17th press release by Visit Bellevue. "With over 111,000 miles traveled and counting, BellHop has revitalized our transportation system by closing the last-mile gap between existing public transit services." 

BellHop provides an unparalleled option for locals and visitors looking to support small businesses and experience the landscape in a new way. For those with limited mobility, the shuttle can open doors for people to visit businesses, restaurants, attractions, services, and open spaces within the city.

"A lot goes on behind the scenes to propel Bellevue towards sustainable urban mobility, and we’re so grateful for our team and amazing partners. This investment provides essential connectivity and stimulates the local economy," said Brad Jones, Executive Director of Visit Bellevue, in the same press release.

This announcement encompasses some other big news: BellHop has extended its service hours to accommodate weekday morning commuters looking for a solution to the stress of rush hour traffic and parking unavailability. The service will now be available from 7:30 to 9:00 AM to five select downtown office hubs including to and from the Bellevue Transit Station.

Stops on the new early morning route are:

• Stop 1 — Bellevue Downtown Light Rail Station, at 110th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 6th Street; look for the BellHop pickup sign.
• Stop 2 — 108th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 4th Street, between Northeast 2nd Place and Northeast 4th Street, on the east side of 108th Avenue Northeast.
• Stop 3 — 106th Avenue Northeast and Main Street, southwest corner of 106th Avenue Northeast.
• Stop 4 — 106th Avenue Northeast and Northeast 4th Street, on the north side of Northeast 4th Street, in the loading zone near the Bank of America ATM.
• Stop 5 — Northeast 10th Street, south side, directly behind the Hyatt Regency Bellevue in the passenger loading zone.

BellHop’s regular hours service area covers approximately six square miles, including all of Downtown Bellevue’s staples: historic Old Main, Spring District, parks, restaurants, and more. It operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM from Sunday through Thursday, and 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.