Zoo New England is excited to announce a brand-new, complimentary, electric shuttle bus to connect guests to Franklin Park Zoo. The weekend shuttle is running now and offers free roundtrip service from Forest Hills MBTA station to the Giraffe Entrance at Franklin Park Zoo.

The introduction of this electric shuttle is expected to attract a wider audience to Franklin Park Zoo, providing visitors with a convenient and sustainable means of transportation that also serves as a crucial first-mile/last-mile solution for park users. By expanding transportation access, this initiative will help foster a stronger connection between this beloved institution, the surrounding neighborhoods and park users.

“We couldn’t be happier to debut the shuttle and offer an alternative transportation option for our guests, that will not only make it easier for them to visit Franklin Park Zoo, but also directly supports our conservation mission,” said John Linehan, President and CEO of Zoo New England. “Fewer trips in single-occupancy vehicles alleviate traffic congestion, improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.”

“This electric shuttle demonstrates how every organization can enhance accessibility, reduce emissions, and improve air quality through climate action,” said Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rebecca Tepper. “Access to clean and sustainable transportation options is essential for fostering healthy communities and ensuring a greener future for Massachusetts. We look forward to funding and implementing more innovative, climate-friendly initiatives like Franklin Park Zoo’s electric shuttle.”

Conservation is a cornerstone of Zoo New England’s mission, and the new shuttle, an electric, zero-emissions vehicle, is perfectly aligned with the zoo’s conservation commitment. The shuttle was converted by ZEVX with a generous grant from the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC). ZEVX works to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission vehicles, and MassCEC is focused on the state’s emission reduction goals while growing clean energy.

“MassCEC commends Zoo New England’s efforts to deliver clean transportation solutions to Franklin Park Zoo and the surrounding community and we are proud to have supported this electric shuttle program,” said MassCEC CEO Jennifer Daloisio. “Our organizations share missions to reduce GHG emissions and foster inclusive and sustainable programming. Collaborations like this continue to transform the landscape of electric transportation in Massachusetts.”

The shuttle route from Forest Hills to the Zoo is just under 1.5 miles and goes through scenic Franklin Park. The shuttle will be easy for guests to see, wrapped in bright colors and featuring animals that reside at Zoo New England’s Franklin Park Zoo and Stone Zoo. The eye-catching shuttle holds up to 14 guests and is an accessible vehicle.

Weekend shuttle service runs through Labor Day. The weekend shuttle is free and runs on a regular loop from 9:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Zoo hours and ticket information.