New route powered by MeetNKY offers increased connectivity between river cities

COVINGTON, Ky. – Powered by MeetNKY, a new GEST cart service route will launch on April 23, between Covington and Newport to expand connectivity across Northern Kentucky’s riverfront.

“MeetNKY is proud to power this service to strengthen access across Northern Kentucky’s river cities,” said Julie Kirkpatrick, president and CEO of MeetNKY and interim CEO of Visit Cincy. “Making it easy for visitors to move seamlessly between destinations in our region is essential to the overall experience and plays a critical role in supporting not only visitors but our residents and local businesses that make this place such a unique place to experience.”

GEST, a fully electric, on-demand cart service, provides seamless connection between hotels, restaurants, entertainment districts, and key destinations as part of a broader effort to strengthen access across the region. Each cart is operated by a Driver Ambassador trained to deliver exceptional customer service. Rides are free and gratuity-based, ensuring inclusivity for locals, visitors, and hospitality workers alike.

The “NKY Connector” fleet includes four uniquely branded carts highlighting tourism experiences between Covington and Newport. Designs include the Barrel Buggy, Shark Shuttle, Roebling Rover, and Clive Cab.

Access across the riverfront is critical for visitors to the region and an essential part of the 2022 MeetNKY multi-year tourism master plan. It also plays a huge role in Covington’s “Bridging the Gap” initiative to support businesses during the KY 8 Licking River Bridge replacement.

“Expanding the free GEST carts into downtown is another meaningful step in making Covington more connected and more accessible for everyone,” said Covington Mayor Ron Washington. “Whether you're a resident or visiting for the day, you can now easily explore everything our city has to offer. This investment strengthens the vibrancy of our community while advancing our Bridging the Gap initiative, ensuring that Covington is easy to get to, easy to navigate, and truly open for business.”

The importance of the riverfront to regional tourism cannot be understated. Entertainment districts like Covington's Mainstrasse, Central Business District, Roebling Point, and Newport on the Levee are key to drawing visitors to the region. Strengthening connections between these destinations will continue to enhance the micro-tourism experience and create more opportunities for easy, accessible movement across the river cities for residents and visitors.

"The closure of the 4th Street Bridge has created real challenges for the people and businesses who move between Newport and Covington every day," said Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. "GEST is a direct response. It gives residents and visitors a free, easy way to travel between our riverfronts, so customers keep reaching our restaurants and attractions and our two cities can keep participating in each other's economies while the bridge is rebuilt.”

“Guests visit our city for a variety of experiences, but those staying along the waterfront are also looking to enjoy the energy of being in the heart of it all and stunning views,” said Beth Westerfeld, General Manager of Holiday Inn Express & Suites Covington. “It’s critical those visitors can seamlessly navigate along the riverfront, from our hotel to places like the Reds and Bengals stadiums to Newport on the Levee. In addition to key wayfinding signage, having an option like this makes it easier for visitors to get out, explore, and experience more of Northern Kentucky during their stay.”

Ideal for Northern Kentucky residents and tourists, the service provides quick, convenient trips from point A to point B through a safe fleet operated by trained local driver ambassadors. The service also helps reduce congestion and parking strain in downtown corridors, enhances accessibility for businesses and community spaces, and promotes sustainability and local economic growth.

A launch event and ribbon cutting took place at 1:30 p.m. on April 23 at Ovation Plaza, featuring remarks from Julie Kirkpatrick, Covington Mayor Ron Washington, and Newport Mayor Tom Guidugli Jr. The event included a GEST “cart race” between the three to mark the official kickoff.

To download the app or learn more, visit gestcarts.com/cincinnati.