Bellevue’s free electric shuttle service, BellHop, has received the 2025 Transportation Vision Award from the Seattle and Bellevue 2030 Districts for its big impact on how people get around downtown.
The award recognizes how quickly the service has become a key part of Bellevue’s transportation system since launching in 2023. Mayor Lynne Robinson said BellHop supports the city’s goals for sustainability and accessibility.
“In just 20 months, BellHop has become an essential part of how people move around Bellevue,” Robinson said. “Its clean, accessible service helps cut down on emissions and supports the city’s long-term planning for a more sustainable future.”
BellHop is run by Visit Bellevue in partnership with Circuit, a company that operates similar services in other cities. The rides are free thanks to funding from hotel room fees and local business support.
As of March 2025, BellHop added three new 2025 Kia EV9 vehicles to its fleet—making it one of the first Circuit programs in the U.S. to use these advanced electric vehicles for public transportation.
Since launching in August 2023, BellHop has provided more than 134,000 rides, covered over 113,000 miles, and helped prevent nearly 60 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions.
Brad Jones, executive director of Visit Bellevue, said BellHop is helping connect people to everything the city has to offer.
“BellHop makes it easier for residents, workers, and visitors to get around Bellevue,” Jones said. “It’s building a transportation system that’s simple, connected, and fun to use.”
While many visitors use the service to explore the city, locals rely on it for errands. According to the City of Bellevue, half of BellHop’s top 10 destinations are grocery stores.
As Bellevue updates its long-term sustainability plans, city leaders say BellHop is a standout example of innovation that’s helping shape the future of urban travel.
