BY SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
HUNTSVILLE — Fans attending Billy Strings’ Oct. 23–24 concerts at The Orion Amphitheater can leave the downtown-to-venue driving to Huntsville Transit, which is bringing back its Orion Express shuttle for both nights.
The service costs $6 round trip, with a $3 round-trip fare for seniors and people with disabilities, according to the City’s Oct. 19 announcement.
Shuttles will depart every 15 minutes from 4–7 p.m. Return trips begin at 9 p.m. and continue until one hour after each concert ends, giving riders a scheduled alternative to finding venue parking and navigating traffic.
“This service makes it easier for residents and visitors to enjoy Huntsville’s vibrant entertainment scene without the worry of navigating traffic or finding parking,” Quisha Bryant, the City’s director of Parking & Public Transportation, said in the announcement.
Downtown boarding locations include the Lumberyard Parking Lot at Cleveland Avenue and Meridian Street; Garage D on Lincoln Street; and the 106 Jefferson Hotel on Jefferson Street. The route also serves Embassy Suites, AC Hotel and Hampton Inn & Suites along Monroe Street before reaching The Orion.
Passengers can buy shuttle passes through the Token Transit app on iOS or Android. First-time users should create an account, verify their information and select “Buy Passes.” The City’s instructions direct riders to choose “Adult” under the Rider section, then select the event-specific shuttle option.
Riders may also pay the $6 fare onboard with exact cash. Drivers will not provide change.
Huntsville Transit plans to use both larger Orbit buses and smaller Access vehicles. The service is offered in partnership with Downtown Huntsville, Inc. and The Orion Amphitheater, linking downtown stops with the concert venue for the weekend.