Regional Salem Skipper Service Kicks Off In Beverly, Danvers

SALEM, MA — The Salem Skipper is branching out across the North Shore.

The low-cost ride sharing service, which launched in the Witch City in December 2020, was recently expanded to include stops in Beverly and Danvers as part of a two-year pilot program using a $2.3 million federal Federal Transit Administration grant.

The mini-bus shuttle service will provide transportation within select areas of Danvers and Beverly — and all of Salem —for $2 per ride or less.

System operator Via enables multiple riders to share the same vehicle, directing users to nearby virtual stops within a short walking distance for pick up and drop off that provide quick and efficient shared trips.

"This is an opportunity for Danvers, Beverly, and Salem residents, commuters, and visitors to get around the region easily and affordably," Danvers Town Manager Steve Bartha said. "The Skipper will get you from your home to a doctor's appointment, from the office to the MBTA Commuter Rail station, from campus to downtown, or anywhere within the service area."

Danvers has been without public transportation service to most areas of the town since the elimination of the bus route that served downtown. Salem Skipper service will be available in Danvers and Beverly from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and Sunday.

Hours are expanded within Salem.

"We anticipate this service, which provides rides to work, school, doctor's appointments, and the supermarket, will be very popular with the community and we are excited to try it out for the next two years," said Beverly Mayor Mike Cahill, who credited U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton for helping secure the federal funding that is supporting the pilot program.

Riders can hail a ride on their mobile device with the Salem Skipper app, available for iPhone and Android, or by calling (844) 983-1842.

Salem Mayor Dominick Pangallo said in Salem there have been nearly 260,000 rides taken over the past four years.

"This is an important step in building and strengthening our regional transit network," Pangallo said.