Stillwater , Okla. – The first week of classes brought record ridership for THE BUS. Ridership for the OSU / Stillwater Community Transit System between August 22 nd and August 26 th saw an 87% increase in transit ridership over the first week of class one year ago.

The previous record for single day ridership was 4,046 in February 2005. THE BUS achieved higher numbers every day during the first week of classes, averaging 4,705 riders per day, up from an average 2,513 one year ago. A new all time record was reached on Wednesday, August 24 th with 5,127 people riding!

“We are encouraged by these significantly higher ridership numbers,” said Hugh E. Kierig, OSU Parking and Transit Services Manager. “I believe these ridership increases are related to two factors – the obvious increase in fuel costs and the fact that passengers see the benefit and convenience of using THE BUS.”

THE BUS is free for OSU students, faculty and staff. One-way trip fares for Stillwater residents range from $0.50 for the general public to $0.25 for elderly, disabled and persons under 18.

Currently, nine transit routes are serving locations on the OSU campus and throughout the Stillwater community. Seven day-time routes run from 6:20 a.m. to 7 p.m. and two night-time routes run from 7 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Service operates Monday through Friday.

For more information about THE BUS and its available services, contact Transit Services at 744-2832 or visit www.transit.okstate.edu .

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