Long Beach Expands Free LB Circuit Micro-Transit Service
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Above: Two new styles of electric vehicles, including ADA-accessible vans (left) and SUVs with extended driving ranges (center), have been added to the LB Circuit fleet, joining the currently operating micro-shuttles (right).

Long Beach, CA – The City of Long Beach is significantly enhancing its micro-mobility options with increased service and additional clean-air, accessible vehicles for LB Circuit, a complimentary micro-transit service operated by the Department of Public Works. The service is now operating with a larger, more Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-accessible fleet, longer hours and a significantly expanded coverage area between Downtown and Alamitos Bay, improving access to and reducing parking impacts in neighborhoods along the city's coastline.

"Long Beach is a leader in building a more connected, accessible and sustainable city through a varied and extensive transportation network," said Mayor Rex Richardson. "This expansion of the LB Circuit is another option that helps people get where they need to go—whether it's work, school, a medical appointment or a favorite restaurant—without having to rely on a personal car."

With this expansion, the LB Circuit service area will extend to close gaps in the existing route network, adding coverage in Bluff Heights, Bluff Park and the remaining portion of Belmont Heights. In the Downtown area, the service will now reach further south to the Queen Mary and north to 10th Street between Atlantic and Magnolia Avenues. Additionally, service hours will be extended by two hours on Sundays, with service ending at 8 p.m. instead of the current 6 p.m.

The expanded coverage will be supported by six new electric vehicles (EVs), including four newly added SUVs with extended driving ranges and two new ADA-accessible vans. These new vehicles will bring the total of the LB Circuit fleet to 14 EVs, including the currently operated six micro-shuttles that accommodate up to five passengers each and two additional vehicles previously reserved for wheelchair accommodation requests. Going forward, these two standby vehicles will be transitioned to service requests that do not require accessibility features, with the new ADA-accessible vans available to meet those needs.

"Inclusion and accessibility are at the heart of our LB Circuit program," said First District Councilwoman Mary Zendejas. "By expanding the fleet to include ADA-accessible vans, we're removing barriers for older adults and residents with disabilities who rely on safe, reliable transportation to maintain independence and stay connected."

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"Bringing micro-transit to more neighborhoods means our community can benefit from clean, car-free trips to their favorite local spots," said Second District Councilwoman Cindy Allen. "Especially in District 2, where we have significant parking challenges, this service is immensely beneficial to residents. Our shuttle serves thousands of passengers every month, and this expansion will help even more residents visit their favorite destinations. I was proud to advocate for the initial expansion to the Retro Row area, and I'm proud to see Long Beach leading the way in making our community even more connected through smart, sustainable transportation options."

"We are cutting down on short car trips to our business corridors by expanding the LB Circuit, which helps ease traffic congestion and free up parking in our busiest areas," said Third District Councilmember Kristina Duggan. "It's a benefit for residents and visitors that better connects us and supports local businesses."

LB Circuit has provided more than 130,000 zero-fare rides since it began operating in 2022, offering a sustainable alternative that supports local businesses, reduces traffic congestion and cuts greenhouse gas emissions.

The service's continued success supports the City's goal of providing a sustainable transportation option that enhances the frequency, speed, connectivity and safety of transit options in Long Beach as outlined in the City's Climate Action Plan. To date, LB Circuit riders have collectively helped prevent an estimated 27 tons of emissions with replaced vehicle trips. In addition to these benefits, the service also reduces parking impacts in the high-demand areas it serves.

"Through innovative programs like LB Circuit, we're setting a standard for how cities can integrate sustainable micro-mobility options," said Eric Lopez, Director of Public Works. "Improving access and reducing emissions, congestion and parking impacts are essential to supporting a more connected and healthier Long Beach."

The City of Long Beach originally entered into an agreement with Circuit in October 2022 after initial success with a separate eight-week pilot program in 2018. In September 2024, the Long Beach City Council approved with a 7 to 0 vote a one-year contract extension with Circuit Transit Inc. for an expanded service area, with the option to extend for up to two additional one-year periods. This contract is supported by $410,000 in grant funding from the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD), as well as additional Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority Proposition A funding and one-time funding approved as part of the City's Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. While LB Circuit operations are contingent upon available funding, the City anticipates offering this service at least through the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic and Paralympic Games where Long Beach will serve as a major Venue City staging several sporting events for both Olympics and Paralympics.

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For more information, including the updated service zone map, visit longbeach.gov/lbcircuit.

About the City of Long Beach
Long Beach is nestled along the Southern California coast and home to approximately 466,000 people. As an award-winning full-service charter city, Long Beach offers the amenities of a metropolitan city while maintaining a strong sense of individual and diverse neighborhoods, culture, and community. With a bustling downtown and over six miles of scenic beaches, Long Beach is a renowned tourist and business destination and home to the iconic Queen Mary, nationally recognized Aquarium of the Pacific and Long Beach Airport, the award-winning Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center and world-class Port of Long Beach.

For more information about the City of Long Beach, visit longbeach.gov. Follow us on social to keep up with the latest news: Facebook, X, Instagram and YouTube. For more information about the Department of Public Works visit longbeach.gov/pw and follow @lbpublicworks on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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