Visit Bellevue launches Light Rail Shuttle pilot program
Visit Bellevue launches Light Rail Shuttle pilot program
Visit Bellevue | August 4, 2026
Visit Bellevue’s BellHop program just acquired some new fleet members, officially launching a Light Rail Shuttle pilot to bring folks directly from the Link station to their final downtown destination.
It’s free, it’s all-electric, and it will take you from point A to point B … no app necessary.
Bellevue has been prioritizing “last-mile” transportation solutions for years now, with the BellHop shuttle program serving over a quarter of a million passengers since its inception in 2023. These shuttles have saved, on estimate, over 35,000 gallons of gas, and account for nearly $21 million annually in rider-enabled economic impact.
So now, by providing VW vans that pick riders up right outside the Link station, these folks will be able to travel directly to their destination within the BellHop service area for free, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.
“Bellevue has been intentionally building toward a sustainable future where travelers can arrive easily, move intuitively, and experience more without relying on a car.” — Brad Jones, Executive Director of Visit Bellevue & Chamber board member
“Bellevue has been intentionally building toward a sustainable future where travelers can arrive easily, move intuitively, and experience more without relying on a car," said Brad Jones, Executive Director of Visit Bellevue and a Chamber board member.
"The Bellevue Light Rail Shuttle closes the last mile between regional transit and the heart of our destination, making it effortless to go from train to hotel, from meeting to meal, from shopping to parks … all seamlessly connected in a modern travel experience.”
The pilot program — which is funded by Amazon and Visit Bellevue, with support from Circuit, the City of Bellevue, and Sound Transit — will run through December 2026 thanks to these partners.
“We see tremendous value in programs that improve access to public transit, support sustainable mobility, and connect people with local businesses and destinations," said Keri Pravitz, Manager of Community Engagement for Amazon in Bellevue, and also a Chamber board member. "Public-private partnerships like this allow us to explore innovative ideas and respond directly to community needs.”


