Mass transit helps students cut driving costs

For many college students, the convenience of driving to class and work puts a serious strain on their budgets.

And although there are cost-saving benefits to using public transportation, a lot of Salt Lake Community College students still prefer to drive.

Students can access the West Valley Center off 3500 South or 5600 West. UTA buses stop near the campus in each direction. (Ashley Frias)

“For most people they think of alternative methods of commuting as an inconvenience,” says Information and ID Center representative Pricilla Tukuafu. “Most SLCC students need to travel to another campus or work right after class, and a car would make that faster and easier for them to get around.”

While waiting for a bus can be a hassle, mass transit is a cost-saving choice that can add up in the long run.

Using public transit more often reduces wear and tear on a vehicle, lowering maintenance and repair costs. And with the constant rise and fall of gas prices, mass transit riders don’t feel the pinch at the pump.

Utah Transit Authority offers TRAX, Streetcar, FrontRunner or bus service to all areas of Salt Lake County.

SLCC students can save even more thanks to a recent price drop on UTA student passes. Staff and faculty can also purchase a discounted pass.

Students who want to use mass transit can visit the Information and ID Center located at each campus. Representatives have information on the different commute options, and can help find a route that will best accommodate a student’s schedule.

For more information about the UTA student pass, visit slcc.edu or rideUTA.com.