The U-Pass system has helped students get around campus since its beginning and has steadily increased since then. Since the start of the U-Pass in 2008, the amount of trips the bus takes has increased from about 5,000 to about 6,500 and has even reached up to 8,000. In 2008, the U-Pass made approximately 85,000 trips to and around campus.
What does this mean? According to Allissa Thomas from the CSULB Alternative Transportation Department, bus traffic (U-Pass and campus shuttles) has increased significantly. "One bus trip takes about 35 cars off the road," stated Thomas. With the increase in bus traffic around campus, is it safe to say that people are finding other ways to campus besides driving?
Over the last three years the U-Pass has saved on average of 188,662.5 gallons of gas. In a society where is some places gas is $4.00 a gallon, that is saying that people are taking alternate ways to, from, and around campus. While talking to Allissa Thomas, she stated that they are trying to turn the alternative into the mainstream.
Over the last three years the amount of bike traffic has nearly doubled because of the accessibility on campus. The newly made bike path on Palo Verde Ave. is an example how the campus is becoming less dependent of cars and more "geared" for alternative transportation.
As a commuting student, I am trying to find other ways to campus because gas is becoming too expensive. At this rate, I will not be able to afford gas and will need another way to get to school.
Alternate Transportation
U-Pass: Long Beach Transit
Metro: The MTA operates 2,258 buses on 185 routes and 18,500 bus stops. They do offer a student transit pass and you can purchase one at the University Bookstore. MetroLink
OCTA: For those who live in Orange County, there is a bus line for you as well. The OCTA has 3 routes that directly serve the campus. OCTA
To find out more information on alternate transportation you can visit: http://daf.csulb.edu/offices/ppfm/parking/program/rideshare/
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