Northwestern University Supports “Hop Around Evanston” Spring Shuttle to Boost Local Business

Northwestern University has launched a free pilot shuttle this spring. The Hop Around Evanston service runs on Saturday evenings for students, employees, residents, and visitors.

Partners and purpose

The program is sponsored by Northwestern and co-hosted with the Evanston Chamber of Commerce. Northwestern University supports Hop Around Evanston to increase neighborhood access and help small merchants.

EL Da’ Sheon Nix, director of community relations at Northwestern, said the shuttle aims to encourage outings. Organizers want riders to explore restaurants, galleries, and other local spots as weather warms.

Route, vehicle and schedule

The shuttle uses the university’s hybrid electric bus fleet. The route forms a continuous loop across key city corridors.

The circuit extends north to Central Street and south to Howard Street. It reaches east to Chicago Avenue and west to Dodge Avenue.

The pilot runs each Saturday evening from April 4 to June 20 (ET). Service hours align with dining and arts activity to support weekend outings.

Access and cost

Riders may board the shuttle for free. The service accommodates a broad mix of users from campus and the wider community.

Stops and highlights

The route links several neighborhood corridors, including Central Street and Main Street. It provides easy access to restaurants, pubs, and galleries.

Landmarks on the loop include the Grosse Point Lighthouse, the Ladd Arboretum, and the Evanston Ecology Center. The shuttle pairs cultural and dining stops in one circuit.

Community and evaluation

The pilot concentrates operations into a predictable weekly rhythm. That structure will help organizers measure ridership and demand over the spring season.

By tying mobility to place-based exploration, the spring shuttle aims to boost local business and neighborhood vitality. Filmogaz.com will monitor developments as the program progresses.