The Commuter Connection
A look at transportation alternatives for getting to work
Let’s face it. Parking in the medical campus “core” can be a major challenge. And as the Health System expands its facilities to accommodate the needs of patients and families, parking will undoubtedly become even more difficult even though new structures are coming online. But there are options available that can help lower your commuting costs, reduce traffic, reduce stress and protect the environment.
One low-cost option is the Ann Arbor Transportation Authority’s Park & Ride program which operates five free parking lots in Ann Arbor— two of which offer direct service to the medical campus. With the use of a yellow card, employees can enjoy this free bus service as part of the AATA’s Mride program. In fact, Mride offers faculty and staff free fare transport on all AATA regularly scheduled fixed routes in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti.
University subsidized vanpools are another low-cost option. While passengers share the cost of gas, parking in an on-site designated space is free. Faculty and staff can create their own vanpool or join an existing one.
When vanpools and Park & Ride aren’t options, consider purchasing a yellow or orange permit and using University bus and shuttle service between certain yellow and orange parking lots and various U-M locations. Shuttle services to and from most lots run at 10 minute intervals or less during peak periods and they are free. After 8 p.m., service intervals increase to every 15 minutes, but shuttles provide doorstep service for major stops.
For staff members who need transportation to a local campus, residence or remotely parked car between 2 and 7 a.m., the safe, convenient and free Ride Home taxicab service is available. Health System staff can call Yellow Cab at 734-663-3355 after 1:20 a.m. to schedule a ride.
These options not only offer an opportunity to save money by limiting parking pass and gas costs, but they also reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and decrease wear and tear on your car. In addition, incorporating walking or biking into your daily commute can help you realize health benefits, and taking a shuttle or bus gives you time to read, listen to music, socialize or just get things done.
Why Ride Resources
- The AATA's Park & Ride Program
|
