Industry
Government
EV Microtransit Powering Downtown
To support its downtown revitalization and climate action goals, New Rochelle launched an all-electric microtransit service in 2019 through the funding help of the Industrial Development Agency. Over the last 6 years, the program has grown into a cornerstone of the city's mobility network. With measurable reductions in emissions and strong local adoption, the service showcase how clean, cost-effective transportation can fuel economic development and connect communities.
"One of the city’s “smartest” investments to date has been its new free, on-demand, electric shuttle service Circuit"
"We recognize a local, regional and global obligation to do what we can to improve the environment and a big part of that is making sure that we have transportation options that are not dependent on gas powered engines."
At a Glance:
- Launched in 2019
- .70-square-mile service area
- Fleet: 3 GEMs & 3 EV Sedans
- Average Driver Rating: 4.86/5
- Average rider age: 38 years old
- Top Pick-up: 5th Ave Affordable Housing
- Top Drop-off: Stop & Shop
Redesigning Downtown Access for a Cleaner Future
In the midst of a major downtown redevelopment effort, the city of New Rochelle faced a familiar urban challenge: how to efficiently connect residents to businesses, housing, and essential services without increasing car traffic or greenhouse gas emissions. As New Rochelle advanced its goal to reduce energy use and GHG emissions by at least 20% by 2030, the city sought a flexible, accessible and sustainable mobility option to support its economic development goals and major downtown developments under construction.
Clean & Connected On-Demand Transit
In 2019, New Rochelle partnered with the Industrial Development Agency (IDA) & Circuit to launch a 100% electric microtransit service focused on the downtown area. The pilot started with just three electric GEM vehicles operating on-demand within a compact 0.70 square mile service area, fully funded by the IDA. Following strong ridership and positive community response, the city began funding the program and expanded the fleet in 2020 with CARES Act funding — doubling to six vehicles, including both GEMS and EV sedans. Today, the fully electric service runs seven days a week and dynamically adapts to high-demand zones and ridership patterns, providing a flexible foundation for clean, local mobility. Designed to bridge local transit gaps, the service offers a new, sustainable connection point between neighborhoods, businesses, and essential services.
“By expanding this highly-popular service, we enable more New Rochelle residents to take advantage of a convenient, sustainable transportation option”
- Noam Bramson
Executive Director of Sustainable Westchester
Former Mayor of New Rochelle
Lasting Impact in Downtown
Now in its seventh year, Circuit’s electric microtransit program has become an integral part of New Rochelle’s downtown mobility ecosystem—helping the city meet its climate goals while supporting economic development and daily life.
By offering a convenient, low-emission alternative to personal vehicles, the service reduces car trips, cuts fuel consumption, and decreases vehicle miles traveled, all while enhancing local access to essential destinations and the beeline bus system. Riders use the service to reach the New Rochelle train station, grocery stores, banks, and housing, reinforcing connections within the city’s newly imagined downtown.
The fully electric fleet operates efficiently throughout the week and includes ADA-accessible options, ensuring inclusive mobility for all residents. With 90% of riders identified as New Rochelle Residents and 40% of the trips pooled, the service not only reduces emissions but also fosters a more connected community.
Scalable Transit in Westchester County
Circuit’s success in New Rochelle offers a compelling model for sustainable, scalable electric microtransit across Westchester County. As regional leaders like the Business Council of Westchester, Sustainable Westchester and the County advance shared goals around clean transportation and electrification, the New Rochelle program demonstrates what’s possible: affordable, effective and community-driven 100% EV mobility that lowers emissions, connects neighborhoods, and strengthens local economies.
