News & Events: Press Releases
August 10, 2005
BAY TOWN TROLLEY OFFERS OIL ALTERNATIVE
Contact: Kelly Robertson
850-878-5531
kroberston@kidd.com
July ridership numbers show high gas prices get people moving
(Panama City, Fla.) - With gas prices on the rise, many turn to Bay Town Trolley for alternative transportation, as evidenced by July's increased ridership numbers. This July, 18,794 boarded the Trolley, bringing this year's current total to 127,832 - a 24 percent increase from the number of riders at this time last year.
At this point topping off the tank is tapping out wallets for both residents and tourists in Bay County. According to AAA, the average price for a regular gallon of gasoline in Florida is currently $2.31, up from $1.94 a year ago. Increased gas prices have left many fuming, forced to find more affordable transportation.
"More than ever people are realizing the cost savings found by using public transportation. We have noticed that when gas prices increase, so do ridership numbers," said Doug Boice, General Manager for Bay Town Trolley. "We are working to expand service in order to meet an ever increasing demand."
Public transportation has a very positive impact on our communities. Getting cars off the road not only diminishes our country's reliance on foreign oil, but reduces the emission of harmful hydrocarbons and oxides. If one in ten Americans regularly use public transportation, dependence on gasoline could be cut by 40 percent.
"Mass transit is an important part of the solution in many of Florida's growing areas," said Ed Coven, Transit Office Manager for the Florida Department of Transportation. "Statewide, transit ridership is growing faster than vehicle miles traveled on the highway system, and twice as fast as the growth in our population."
Bay Town Trolley moves forward as a key contributor to economical, efficient and affordable transportation. With forecasted gasoline projections reaching $2.38 per gallon by the end of summer, Bay County's public transit numbers are expected to continue rising.
Bay Town Trolley is an award-winning transit system that serves the growing needs of Bay County, Monday through Friday, with hundreds of stops daily. For more information about Trolley routes and service call (850) 769-0557 or visit www.baytowntrolley.org. Bay Town Trolleys are equipped with bicycle racks and wheelchair lifts.