Seminole County microtransit soft launches in Winter Springs, full launch next week

Freebee, the microtransit system that will replace most Lynx bus routes in Seminole County, has soft launched in Winter Springs. 

The service is officially known as Scout, powered by Freebee. It’s designed to function through an app that allows users to get a ride from their current location to their dropoff point, picking up additional passengers along the way. 

While the service has soft launched in Winter Springs, it hasn’t yet launched in Oviedo. And the full changeover, when Lynx ends many routes in Seminole County, is coming Jan. 10.

But the creators of the transit system are already anticipating problems as users line up to use it in its early stages.

“Please be aware that during the launch period, wait times may be longer than usual,” the app cautions. “We appreciate your patience as we grow.”

Seminole County estimates that making the switch from LYNX to Freebee will save the county $2.2 million the first year, and then $2.7 million to $5.6 million in Fiscal Year 2027. The total savings depends on how popular the service is and how many cars get deployed, and could also change based on the rates set by the county.

Check here for more information on the new program. 

Separately, a controversial Wawa gas station will be coming to the Winter Springs City Commission Monday, Oct. 13. The Planning and Zoning Board is recommending the Commission deny the request, saying the proposal doesn’t meet the current Town Center code for a convenience store that sells gas. 

You can read more about that project here.