NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — Downtown Norfolk Council’s Free Ride Every Day service, or F.R.E.D., has returned after going out of service for maintenance repairs.
F.R.E.D., an electric vehicle, began transporting passengers through the streets of Downtown Norfolk back in 2009. Since then, F.R.E.D. has transported over 80,000 passengers.
“Everyone’s favorite people-mover is finally back, and we couldn’t be prouder to offer this valuable free, on-demand service to our Downtown workforce, residents, and visitors alike,” said Mary Miller, president & CEO of Downtown Norfolk Council. “F.R.E.D. fans will love that our new vehicle is top-of-the-line in comfort, safety, style with the same convenient reliability — and green energy — they know and love.”
In the summer of 2023, F.R.E.D. went out of service for maintenance repairs, which were delayed due to supply chain issues. Now, he is back in service with some new upgrades, including a luggage rack for storage, on-board heating, and improved battery life.
F.R.E.D. is available to passengers ages eight and older on a first come, first served basis. The service is free, but donations are welcomed.
F.R.E.D. will drop-off and pick-up passengers in the 50-block Downtown Improvement District. Five passengers can ride at a time.
F.R.E.D. will operate:
- Tuesday-Thursday: 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.
- Friday-Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.
To receive service via F.R.E.D., contact (757) 478-7233.
