Hamptons App-Based Transportation Service Looks To Crowdfunding For Montauk Route

The Hampton Hopper is hoping to add a new Montauk Loop this summer and has started a Kickstarter campaign to fund “The End” expansion.

Currently, the iPhone app-based transportation service makes stops at Sag Harbor Village, East Hampton Village, Moby’s East Hampton, Amagansett Village, Lunch Lobster Roll, Cyril’s Fish House, Kirk Park Beach, Montauk Village/Montauk Beach House, Swallow East and Gosman’s Dock, Sole East, Ruschmeyer’s and The Surf Lodge. The Montauk Loop would offer a more frequent and expanded service exclusively within Montauk, with potential stops including Gurney’s, Ruschmeyer’s, The Surf Lodge, the Hampton Jitney stop, The Point/Memory Motel, Kirk Park Beach, The Ocean Resort/Montauk Blue Hotel, the Montauk Beach House, Montauk Yacht Club, Uihleins, Swallow East and Gosman’s Dock and the train station. Hoppers would run between designated Montauk stops every 40 minutes.

“Since we started running the Hampton Hopper between Sag Harbor and Montauk two years ago, there has been increasing interest from the community in Montauk, including the Chamber of Commerce and local businesses, to have a Montauk-only shuttle bus,” explained Derek Kleinow. “With increasing parking restrictions in Montauk this year, we are hoping that local residents and businesses alike will support the Montauk Loop to make it easier and more convenient for residents and visitors to get around Montauk, which will also hopefully reduce traffic congestion and increase safety for everyone.”

Hampton Hopper’s goal is to “combat drunk driving, parking constraints and limited transportation” by providing a “convenient, affordable, and fun” way to get around the Hamptons. Its signature green buses transport travelers between the villages of the Hamptons, and also make stops at popular shopping locations, fitness studios, and restaurants and bars during the evening.

“Businesses who support the campaign will be given preference for stops on the route,” added Kleinow. “We set it up so that supporting the Montauk Loop pays for itself because we provide passes that businesses can resell, or give to their patrons as a perk, to cover their sponsorship cost.”

Daily, unlimited-ride Hampton Hopper passes begin at $20, with discounted seasonal passes available on the app. Those without an iPhone can purchase a daily pass on board. Hampton Hopper will operate Thursdays through Sundays until Labor Day, and buses run until 2 a.m. on Saturday nights.

The goal of the Kickstarter campaign is $35,000, with a stretch goal of $85,000. If Hampton Hopper reaches their initial goal, any funding over the $35,000 will be used for app improvements, service expansions and fare reductions. If they achieve the stretch goal Hampton Hopper will make the Montauk Loop free for all riders during the 2016 season. The Kickstarter campaign ends on Wednesday, June 15th.

For more information, visit www.kickstarter.com.