Altamonte Springs is preparing to extend its autonomous shuttle network, CRANErides, beyond its current Uptown routes and into the city’s regional transit hub. The expansion will connect riders directly to the Altamonte Springs SunRail station, marking a significant step toward reducing car dependence in one of Central Florida’s busiest suburban corridors.
The expansion is made possible thanks to a $750,000 award from the State of Florida, a matching grant under a 50/50 partnership between the state and the city. City Manager Frank Martz said the funds will help Altamonte acquire more vehicles and extend routes to better integrate with regional transit.
Schedule:
Since launching the autonomous shuttles in the Uptown/Altamonte Mall area, CRANErides has carried approximately 12,000 riders. Riders can now ride to local destinations such as:
Altamonte Mall
Renaissance Centre
Cranes Roost
AMC Theatre
AdventHealth Altamonte Springs
Operating hours run:
Monday – Friday: 7–10 a.m., 12–3 p.m., 6–9 p.m.
Saturday: 11 a.m.–2 p.m. & 6–10 p.m.
Sunday: 10 a.m.–2 p.m. & 6–9 p.m.
While the shuttles are autonomous in motion, each vehicle carries an attendant onboard to monitor and intervene if necessary.
Goals & Challenges:
In an interview with WKMG, Martz emphasized that location is key: the closer the routing gets to destinations people want to reach, the more ridership the system can attract. The extension aims to connect Cranes Roost, the I-4 corridor, and the SunRail station, enabling east–west movement across the city without relying solely on major roadways like State Road 436.
However, public reception has been mixed. On social media, some residents expressed excitement about greater access, while others questioned the cost and utility of autonomous shuttles in traffic.
Martz noted that Altamonte Springs sees about 95 million car trips traverse the city annually, and that easing driving pressure on SR 436 is a key motivation.
City officials plan to procure additional shuttle vehicles and finalize routing to serve the SunRail station, which would effectively connect local mobility with the regional rail network. Details regarding timelines, frequency, and exact paths have not yet been fully disclosed.
Once implemented, the expanded service could offer residents and commuters a car-free alternative to reach central transit options, potentially reducing congestion and improving connectivity within Altamonte Springs.