BRIDGMAN, MI – May 22, 2023 – The Greater Bridgman Area Council for Growth &
Advancement (CGA) is excited to announce the launch of the Bridgman Beach Bus. The
program, aimed at addressing the limited parking at Weko Beach & Campground while
supporting local businesses, will be in operation from Memorial Day weekend through Labor
Day weekend.

With the new public transit program, beachgoers can take advantage of the abundant, free
parking downtown Bridgman and then hop on the Bridgman Beach Bus for a free and
convenient ride to Weko Beach.

The Bridgman Beach Bus is more than a solution to the parking issue, it's an invitation to
explore Bridgman’s vibrant community. The bus will be available from 11AM to 10PM EST on
Saturdays and Sundays, providing a loop service about every 20 minutes to key locations
including:

● Weko Beach & Campground
● Sunset Dunes Vacation Rentals
● Biggby Coffee
● Sunset Dunes Inn & Suites
● Bridgman Public Library
● Sandpiper Gifts & Yarn
● Get-A-Way Grill & Cubbie Bar

Riders can hop on and hop off the bus, making it easy to enjoy shopping, dining, drinks, and
entertainment in town before, during or after their beach outing.

The Bridgman CGA has partnered with the City of Bridgman’s Parks and Recreation
Department and several local businesses to bring the Bridgman Beach Bus to life. Many
purchased bus stops or ads and Sunset Dunes Inn & Suites generously donated the use of a
new 14-passenger bus for the program.

"Seeing our community come together to make the Bridgman Beach Bus a reality has been
incredibly rewarding," says Matt Schmidt, owner of Sunset Dunes Inn & Suites. "I'm delighted to
contribute toward a program that will not only enhance the beach experience but also boost
local businesses."

"The Bridgman Beach Bus program is a testament to the power of community collaboration. It's
a win-win for everyone—beach visitors, local businesses, and our city," adds Sara Ball, parks
and recreation director for the city of Bridgman.

John Bonkoske, president of the Bridgman CGA, shares, "The business community requested a
free beach transit system to help drive economic growth. We are thrilled to be able to
collaborate with business and community leaders to bring this program to life. Our goal is to
make Bridgman a destination not just for its beautiful beach but also for its vibrant community
and local businesses. The Bridgman Beach Bus is a significant step towards that vision."

The CGA is currently offering a unique advertising opportunity until the end of May. Local
businesses can purchase ads to be rotated on a 32" digital screen inside the bus. For more
information on this opportunity, contact Tara Heiser at theiser@bridgmancga.org.


  About the Greater Bridgman Area Council for Growth & Advancement
The Greater Bridgman Area Council for Growth & Advancement is a 501c3 organization with a
mission to promote and grow the community through economic development in the City of
Bridgman and Lake Charter Township. To learn more about the CGA, visit
facebook.com/bridgmanarea.