VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – Ridership on the VB Wave Trolley rose by 59 percent during its 40th summer season, buoyed by enhanced service frequencies, increased marketing, and popular Oceanfront events.
Between May 12 and the Neptune Festival in late September, a total of 277,724 people rode on the three trolley routes as part of the summertime service operated by Hampton Roads Transit (HRT), up from 174,212 riders in 2023.
Of the three routes, Route 35, from Parks Avenue and 19th Street to Shore Drive and Pleasure House Road via the Oceanfront along Pacific Avenue, grew by 178 percent as daily service doubled from hourly to every 30 minutes.
Ridership on the hallmark Route 30 along Atlantic Avenue increased by 45 percent.
Route 31 – from JT’s Grommet Island Park to the Virginia Aquarium and Marine Science Center and campgrounds along General Booth Boulevard – was up by 67 percent over last summer.
“The VB Wave trolley’s 40th anniversary season was a certified success.These results demonstrate the convenience and efficiency of the VB Wave to serve the Virginia Beach Oceanfront resort area to help visitors get around while contributing to the region’s economy.”
William E. Harrell
HRT President and CEO
The distinctive sky blue and sand-colored trolley buses – augmented this past summer by HRT buses – have carried millions of passengers along the Oceanfront since 1984.
About HRT
HRT’s mission is to connect Hampton Roads with transportation solutions that are reliable, safe, efficient, and sustainable. For more information on transit services, visit gohrt.com.
Media Contact:
Thomas Becher, APR
Manager, Communications
October 30, 2024
Cell: (757) 354-0564
(757) 222-6010