Gulf Coast Go, offers a new vision for local and tourist travel this summer
In 2016, South Walton and Okaloosa counties were visited by over seven million people. The opportunity for these visitors to take advantage of what both destinations have to offer has been hindered by a lack of transportation options. With the influx of so many people, the need for a viable transportation system is obvious. Gulf Coast Go, a new kind of transportation company was founded with a vision to help resolve this ongoing problem. Without alternatives, the traffic and parking issues will only get worse.
Beginning in the summer 2018 season, the newly-formed company will introduce its “Gulf Coast Go Line”, connecting South Walton visitors with the many attractions and businesses Destin and Miramar Beach have to offer. On the same note, Destin visitors will now have the opportunity to explore the unique lifestyle of South Walton and 30A. GCG plans to accomplish their goal with a fleet of continuosly running double decker busses travelling along Highway 98 and Scenic 98, and using trolleys along 30A. “Our ultimate goal is to offer more variety to tourists in South Walton and Destin and hopefully alleviate some of the traffic,” says Curtis Spagnola, director of sales and marketing for GCG. “Parking is a growing problem all along the Destin-30A Corridor and we believe our extensive bus and trolley system will help ease the burden. Locals going to work along our route will be able to ride to work free of charge, which will help with parking issues as well. A true win/win for everyone, tourists and locals,” he says.
The initial routes will have multiple stops from 30A to Okaloosa Island. The company has already secured ten locations or “stops” along Hwy. 98 and 30A, and additional stops will be added as the need arises. Trolleys along 30A will allow for stopping at any point along the route by simply signalling the driver to stop at a certain point.
“We’ll also have the capability to book local activities for riders, such as dolphin tours, paddleboarding, fishing charters, parasailing and a host of other tourist adventures. We have already signed up over 30 local vendors and we’re expecting many more as we develop our plan. ” Riders will have the option of purchasing a 1,3,5, or 7 day bus pass, and can “Hop on or Hop off” at any time, all for a set fee. During peak season, operating hours will be from 6am- 11pm on weekdays and 6am-1am on weekends. Spagnola says the busses will all be of high quality, safe and comfortable. Each bus can accommodate up to 100 persons. There will be one licensed bus driver and an additional customer relations tour guide for each bus, ensuring a safe and relaxing communte between destinations.
Guld coast Go’s vision is surely welcome here in the land of sunshine and summer traffic. One can only hope the vision will turn into success. For more information please visit www.gulfcoastgofl.com. And look for the “Gulf Coast Go Destination Map” in the centerspread of the May 2018 South Walton Life.
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