Beyond the Bus

May is here, which means it’s time to dust off your bike! What better time to introduce biking into your routine than during Bike Month? Biking relieves stress, provides  great exercise and is a perfect way to enjoy some fresh air.

Don’t live near a bike trail? Take a quick ride on CATA and utilize the beautiful bike paths we have in our own backyard. CATA buses are equipped with bike racks that are available to riders at no extra charge and bike lockers at the CATA Transportation Center that are available for rental. Click here to get more information about CATA’s bike racks and lockers.

Check out these scenic bike-friendly trails:

1. Lansing: The Lansing River Trail has over 20 miles of paved trails that are perfect for biking. You can hop on the river trail at several locations and enjoy both wooded areas and picturesque views of downtown Lansing and the Capitol Building. Take Route 14 to get on at Adado Riverfront Park, or Route 2 and start at Moores Park.
2. East Lansing: East Lansing is home to the Northern Tier Trail, which boasts 4.8 miles of paved pathway. Take Route 26 to the Family Aquatic Center where you can easily enter the trail.
3. Delhi: Route 7 will give you access to the charming Sycamore Trail. Beginning at the end of the Lansing River Trail, at the corner of Jolly and Aurelius, the Sycamore Trail is a great paved pathway for bike riding.

If you’re looking for more personalized routes or a bike buddy for your commute, check our CATA’s Clean Commute Options at cleancommute.org. Happy biking!

There’s more to taking the bus than its ability to get you from point A to point B. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, we decided to share five things we love most about public transportation.

1. It’s affordable – and it saves you money

Gas prices fluctuate regularly, but with public transit, you’re likely spending the same amount for each ride and there are often frequent rider options. See CATA’s rates and frequent rider options here.

Making the switch from driving to public transportation for your daily commute can save you money in the long run – approximately $9,946 per year on average, according to a September 2017 report from the American Public Transit Association.

2. It’s convenient

With set schedules for fixed routes, you know when your ride is going to arrive. Outside of fixed routes, CATA offers additional services in nearby communities and at Michigan State University. Riders have the option to sign up for alerts to let them know about changes to their commute. Take the worry out of finding the right routes. With our trip planner, you know exactly which routes to take and the Transit App lets you see where your bus is.

3. It’s safer than driving a car

An individual’s risk of being in an accident can be reduced by more than 90 percent by electing to travel using public transportation instead of driving a car, per a 2015 study from the American Public Transportation Association.

4. It helps the environment

Using public transit helps reduce carbon emissions and gasoline consumption. It also eases traffic congestion, which minimizes pollution from vehicles that aren’t moving. By choosing public transportation over driving, you’re playing a role in making the air cleaner.

5. It gives you an opportunity to get to know your community

Public transit can make it easier to plan a trip to a popular local attraction, enjoy a night out on the town or just become more familiar with your neighborhood. Ride CATA today and fall in love with public transit!

Freezing temperatures and icy roads can make Michigan winters a drag sometimes, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t fun things to do in the Lansing area during the cold months. We’ve made a list of five things to do in Greater Lansing to help you enjoy the winter season.

1. Art & Craft BeerFest              

This indoor festival on the main strip of REO Town will take place on Saturday, January 27. Check out art, music and short films as you sample craft beer. There will also be food trucks on site, along with eats from Saddleback BBQ and Good Truckin’ Diner. Tickets are $30 in advance or $40 at the gate. Take Route 2 to REO Town for this festival that you don’t want to miss.

2. Ice Skating at Suburban Ice

Ice skating is a fun winter activity for adults and children alike. Suburban Ice in East Lansing has public skate hours every day in the month of January. Check out their calendar for public skating times. Public Skate is $5 for adults, $3 for children, and only $2 for skate rental. Take Route 1 to Hannah Plaza to have some fun on the ice!

3. Check out a local coffee shop

Escape the cold of winter by cozying up at a local coffee shop with a hot drink. The Lansing area has several charming cafes to choose from. Take Route 1 to Strange Matter Coffee on Michigan Avenue, or take Route 14 to Old Town to grab a drink at Bloom Coffee Roasters. Headed to REO Town? Hop on Route 2 to check out Blue Owl Coffee.

4. Winter sports at Michigan State University

Take advantage of having a Big Ten school in your hometown and check out an MSU sporting event! Both the men’s and women’s basketball teams have home games at the Breslin Center through February. Take Route 20 to the Breslin Center, or park in Ramp 5 and use the game day shuttle to get you to the door. The hockey team will also have home games throughout the winter season. Go to the MSU Official Athletic Site for schedules and tickets.

5. Snow Tubing at Hawk Island Park

You’ve gone sledding, but have you ever gone snow tubing? For $10 per person, or $8 for groups of 4 or more, enjoy a day of snow tubing at Hawk Island Park. Check out their hours before heading out. Ride a tube down the groomed course that extends over 500 feet, and then hop on the conveyor belt to take you back to the top of the hill. Take Route 8 and you’ll only be a short walk from the park entrance.