SEAT Expands “HOP” Microtransit Service Across Southeastern Connecticut in Groton,

Stonington, and Waterford

PRESTON, CT [Decembr 3, 2025] The Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) has expanded

its popular HOP Microtransit Service to Groton, Stonington, and Waterford, making local travel

more accessible, convenient, and connected for residents and workers across Southeastern

Connecticut.

The HOP service provides flexible, on-demand transportation that bridges the gap between

neighborhoods, business districts, and major community destinations. Expanding into Groton,

Stonington, and Waterford improves access to jobs, schools, shopping centers, and medical

appointments for riders throughout the region.

“Our riders are at the heart of everything we do,” said Michael Carroll, General Manager of

SEAT. “The HOP Microtransit Service expands access for our communities, helping seniors

reach appointments, workers get to their jobs, and families travel safely throughout Southeastern

Connecticut.”

HOP Microtransit complements SEAT’s fixed-route bus system by providing affordable, point-

to-point rides within specific service zones. Riders can book trips to and from local destinations

within each zone, offering greater flexibility than traditional bus service.

The Stonington HOP connects residents with shopping, dining, and cultural attractions across

the shoreline. Riders can travel easily to downtown Mystic, Olde Mistick Village, Mystic

Aquarium, Stonington High School, and local senior and community centers. The Waterford

HOP serves major destinations including Crystal Mall, Waterford Commons, Waterford Town

Hall, Waterford Senior Center, local medical offices, and nearby Connecticut College and

Mitchell College. The Groton HOP offers convenient, point-to-point rides between Groton

Square, Grasso Gardens, Pequot Village, Groton Shopping Plaza, and major employers,

including Electric Boat. Caroll added, “Public transit is more than transportation, it is access.

With the HOP expansion, we are helping residents reach jobs, healthcare, education, and local

businesses that fuel our region’s growth.”

How to Ride

• Spare Rider app or Token Transit app available on the Apple App Store and Google Play

Store

• Call SEAT Customer Service at (860) 886-2631 for scheduling assistance

• Visit HOP pickup points located throughout Groton, Stonington, and Waterford

For route maps, HOP service zone details, and updates, visit southeastareatransitdistrict.com.

About the Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) District

With a mission to enhance mobility and strengthen community connection through innovative,

sustainable transit solutions, the Southeast Area Transit District (SEAT) offers safe, reliable, and

accessible public transportation throughout Southeastern Connecticut, serving Norwich, New

London, Groton, Waterford, Stonington, and surrounding communities. Formed by local

municipalities and governed by a Board of Directors appointed by its member towns, SEAT

operates as a local government transit district.