Evanston Launches Free Weekend 'Hop Around' Shuttle

New service connects NU campus to local business districts

Apr. 6, 2026 at 3:05am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Evanston has launched a new free weekend shuttle service called 'Hop Around Evanston' in partnership with Northwestern University. The shuttle runs every Saturday from 6-9 pm, with 13 stops connecting the NU campus to the city's main business districts.

Why it matters

The new shuttle service aims to make it easier for NU students and residents to explore Evanston's local businesses and community, strengthening the connection between the university and the city.

The details

The 'Hop Around Evanston' shuttle is a pilot program co-hosted by NU's Neighborhood and Community Relations office and the Evanston Chamber of Commerce. The 30-40 minute loop has 13 stops stretching from Central Street to Howard Street, with NU stops near Weber Arch, the Jacobs Center, the Technological Institute, and Patten Gym. The route connects NU's campus to Evanston's three main business districts - Main-Dempster Mile, Central Street, and Downtown.

  • The shuttle launched on Saturday, April 5, 2026.
  • The pilot program will run every Saturday from 6-9 pm through June 20, 2026.

The players

EL Da' Sheon Nix

NU's director of Evanston community relations, who came up with the idea for the shuttle service after a conversation with a local resident.

Paul Merkey

NU's associate director of transportation and parking, who worked with Nix to plan the shuttle route and stops.

Brianna Gray

Interim executive director of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce, which is co-hosting the shuttle program.

Templeton Steinwedel

A Fourth Ward resident who works at the newly opened Pizzeria DeVille and is participating in the shuttle's 'Shuttle Ambassador Opportunity' to promote local businesses.

Ranni Kristine

A Fourth Ward resident who rode the shuttle on its opening day with her husband and 2-year-old son.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We were at a crosswalk and a trolley rode by, and she said, 'Wouldn't it be great if Evanston had something like that?'”

— EL Da' Sheon Nix, NU's director of Evanston community relations

“This is a nice way to be able to essentially get chauffeured around Evanston and be able to see the amazing business districts that we have to offer.”

— Brianna Gray, Interim executive director of the Evanston Chamber of Commerce

“Businesses in Evanston really live and die on how integrated they become with the community.”

— Templeton Steinwedel, Fourth Ward resident and Pizzeria DeVille employee

“We're going to give some experience for our son because it's his first time riding a bus. This is our hidden gem.”

— Ranni Kristine, Fourth Ward resident

What’s next

The pilot program is funded by an initial $15,000 grant, and the organizers hope to improve the shuttle service through data tracking and raise funds through advertising to expand shuttle hours, days of service, and the number of shuttles.

The takeaway

The new 'Hop Around Evanston' shuttle service demonstrates the ongoing efforts to strengthen the connection between Northwestern University and the local Evanston community, providing an accessible and sustainable way for students and residents to explore the city's vibrant business districts.