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5 reasons to love public transportation

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

Categories: Community

CATA bus with animated red hearts around it

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!

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