Free shuttle service to launch next week as classes resume at Eastern Michigan University
A new shuttle service and bus pass program will launch next week as classes resume on the campus of Eastern Michigan University.
EMU officials and the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority joined today in announcing the new Route 34 West Campus Shuttle, which begins Aug. 31.
AATA CEO Michael Ford said the new partnership not only creates more access for everyone at EMU, but also reduces demand for parking and relieves traffic congestion on campus.
Under new parking guidelines being implemented at EMU this fall, students, faculty and staff can park for free at the Rynearson park-and-ride lot. The free service between the Student Center and the College of Business will continue as the Route 33 College of Business Shuttle.
In addition to paying fares on Routes 33 and 34 for all riders, EMU is introducing a discounted bus pass for students, faculty and staff on other routes throughout AATA's service area.
EMU will offer discounted 30-day, unlimited-use passes for $40, a 30-percent discount off the standard cost of $58. The passes will be sold at the EMU Cashiers Office at 201 Pierce Hall and at the Parking Department in the Department of Public Safety building.
“We are pleased to partner with TheRide to offer these new benefits to our students, faculty and staff,” EMU President Susan Martin said in a statement. “Reducing traffic congestion and addressing parking challenges are key elements of our overall efforts to improve the campus experience and create a more sustainable environment.”
Ryan J. Stanton covers government and politics for AnnArbor.com. Reach him at ryanstanton@annarbor.com or 734-623-2529. You also can follow him on Twitter or subscribe to AnnArbor.com's e-mail newsletters.
Comments
jrigglem
Thu, Aug 25, 2011 : 1:34 p.m.
Since when does the bus stop at Bowen Field House?
jns131
Thu, Aug 25, 2011 : 2:56 p.m.
If I remember correctly it always has. I remember taking a bus into EMU and getting off there. I love this idea and think it will be a hit.
Ben
Thu, Aug 25, 2011 : 1:04 p.m.
EMU's statements to the contrary, this has been done before. I used it all the time in the late '90s, and found it worked very well. Never worried about parking.
Lovaduck
Wed, Aug 24, 2011 : 7:01 p.m.
I merely pointed out that a similar program had little success in the 1980-90's. I wish the program well and believe in public transportation. I don't know how my comment violated any guidelines. I wish the program success
Bob Krzewinski
Wed, Aug 24, 2011 : 2:53 p.m.
Another way to get from the EMU west (Rynearson) parking lot to the main EMU campus is by crossing Hewitt at the pedestrian crossing and then walking (or biking) on the Border To Border Trail east to the campus. The Trail crosses right in front of the stadium/Convocation center. Just take the Trail south until you see it turn east into the wooded area and then this will take you right into the main campus. Using the Trail, not only will you get some exercise, but also have an energizing walk through a scenic area. Pressed for time? Load you bike on your car, drive to the west parking lot and then bike into campus. There are loads of bike racks around EMU to lock your bike to. Figure around 15-20 minutes to walk from the parking lot to the main campus and around 5 minutes to bike it. For more information on the Border To Border Trail, including maps of the EMU segment, visit <a href="http://www.bordertoborder.org" rel='nofollow'>www.bordertoborder.org</a>.
Derrick Forshee
Thu, Aug 25, 2011 : 11:10 a.m.
I do that walk all the time seeing how I live in Aspen Chase, I just have to hop a fence in the back and I'm practically there.