Go on strike, ride a bike, or take a hike
Lisa Kane
Buy over priced gas and drive comfortably, or help the planet and save money by taking the bus.That was a dilemma many students faced, but now with increased fare rates it is a lot easier to answer.
Valley Metro has raised rates since opening the new light rail train, and not everyone is happy about it.
A one-ride ticket costs $1.75, and allows riders to take only one bus going one direction. There is no mileage limit to this ticket, but riders cannot change buses without paying an additional fare.
An all-day pass can be purchased for $5.25 on board buses, or $3.50 at transit terminals. This pass allows a rider to use as many buses and trains necessary in a day.
The problem that most students are having with this is they do not live near a terminal. Therefore, they have to pay $5.25 for an all day pass to reach their destinations.
The other option available to valley riders is to purchase a 31 day pass that costs $55 depending on transit needs.
Most students who have their own transportation complain about gas prices, traffic, and parking once they get to school. These issues can be avoided by using the valley’s public transit system.
So it comes down to comfort or conservation, travel time or time in general (waiting for the bus), free parking spaces or not having to park at all.
One student said he spent $15 a week on gas to get to school, almost equivalent to a 31 day bus pass. However if he were spending $30 a week on gas, the bus and train might not only save him money, but also offer a smarter solution economic and environment wise.
When the fares were $1.25 the buses were packed, especially with the high gas prices and the declining economy.
Students who are full-time can purchase semester passes for $195 for fall or spring, and $125 for summer.
Valley metro also offers free passes for Tempe residents, and reduced rates for those who are eligible; Valley libraries also sell discount passes as well.
