Dayton has joined a slew of U.S. cities that offer low-cost or free cart rides in their entertainment areas.
“The GEST cart is green, easy, safe and again it’s another form of transportation,” said Kristina Scott, vice president of strategy for the Downtown Dayton Partnership.
Local leaders and downtown supporters gathered at Courthouse Square on Friday for the launch of GEST Carts Dayton.
Downtown has lots of visitors, and this is a great addition to the growing number of ways that people can get around, said Montgomery County Commissioner Carolyn Rice.
Downtown visitors, residents and workers already can get to places using scooters, electric bikes in the bike-share program, Uber and Lyft and the Flyer, a free shuttle bus.
Local leaders say GEST Carts Dayton is the next innovative form of transportation that likely will be popular for short trips.
They envision people catching a ride from the Oregon District to the Schuster Center or the arts district or from one part of downtown to the Water Street District and the Dayton Dragons stadium (Day Air Ball Park).
Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims Jr. said this special service may be a hit among people who are visiting the city and who do not know their way around.
The mayor also believes GEST carts will be popular when there’s cold or bad weather and people don’t want to walk to their destinations.
GEST will operate Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and when there are major events in downtown.
Tom Conroy, owner of GEST Carts Dayton, said drivers can give riders tips about things to do and places to see.
Conroy said GEST hopefully will “enhance community, foster connectivity, support local businesses, welcome visitors and promote the city of Dayton and our region.”
Conroy said the electric carts have a top speed of 25 mph and they will only travel on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or lower.
People can flag down the vehicles or call dispatch 937-888-GEST (4378). Riders are encouraged to pay the $5 fee (for all riders, no matter the size of the group) using a QR code.
GEST will be available for events like weddings, parties and sporting events.
GEST carts have images and ads on the side of the vehicles promoting corporate sponsors and activities around the city.
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