Originally a simple single-van service, the shuttle was operated by the Residential Life Office and staffed by part-time undergraduate students.

The original route transported graduate students to what is now known as the Charlestown Retirement Community located off of Maiden Choice Lane in Catonsville.

In the late 1980s, UMBC Shuttle became independent of the Office of Commuter Affairs, focusing specifically on transportation needs only and reporting to the University Center.

Recent developments include the addition of new routes and replacing existing bus stop shelters on campus with modern "green" solar powered units.

[7] This line (Downtown) also connects the campus to the Baltimore Metro Subway by way of Lexington Market Station.