RTS to offer MCC students free rides with new program

Rochester’s Regional Transit Service will provide a new program for Monroe Community College students beginning in the fall semester.

RTS will offer a new Universal Pass (U-Pass) program to remove a barrier for MCC students, including those living on campus, who struggle to find transportation to campus, internships, jobs, volunteer opportunities and doctor’s appointments. The U-Pass allows students to easily and safely travel anywhere RTS fixed-route bus transportation is provided in Monroe County.

“Having access to safe, reliable and convenient public transportation can make it easier for students to succeed in and out of the classroom,” RTS CEO Bill Carpenter said in a news release. “I thank President (Anne) Kress and MCC for embracing public transit as a component of student success and for partnering with RTS to launch the first program of its kind in Monroe County.”

Under the program, full- and part-time MCC students can ride RTS free with their MCC identification during the academic year. Students swipe their MCC ID card on any route at any time and the ride is free.

“We are pleased to partner with RTS on a program that provides thousands of students, including the nearly 800 who live on campus, with unlimited access to RTS services, connecting them to the college as well as to resources throughout the community,” Kress said. “Providing students with greater access, convenience and mobility removes barriers that may keep them from taking classes, pursuing internships and work opportunities off campus, and getting involved in civic service.”

Kress said the U-Pass fills a significant transportation need and will enhance students’ collegiate experience.

A spring 2018 survey of more than 200 MCC residence hall students showed that limited access to transportation was a barrier to accessing off-campus food sources, employment, health care and other opportunities.

MCC is the first college in the Finger Lakes region to join the U-Pass program, officials said, noting that RTS plans to have similar partnerships with other colleges in the region.

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