News & Events: Press Releases
May 08, 2008
Residents Choose to Ride Late in '08
Bay Town Trolley reports significant increase in April ridership
Contact: Kelly Robertson
850-878-5531
kroberston@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - The year isn't even halfway over, but in just a few short months Bay Town Trolley has already bested 2007 ridership figures. With its "Ride Late in '08" campaign in full force, Bay Town Trolley representatives are excited to announce a 10 percent increase in April ridership as compared to this time last year. Bay Town Trolley had 36,506 riders last month with a noticeable portion coming from the extended service initiative.
Specifically, 2,110 riders hoped on board in April between 6 - 8 p.m., representing a 25 percent increase from March's extended service ridership. With summer right around the corner, gas prices cashing in at $4 a gallon and more people becoming environmentally conscious, ridership is expected to continually increase.
"The trolley's growth this year has just been remarkable," said Beth Coulliette, executive director of Bay Town Trolley. "We are thrilled that in tough economic times, such as these, people are taking advantage of the extended service hours and experiencing all the benefits of the trolley."
Bay Town Trolley's growth is in line with national public transit trends, which show a shift away from personal vehicles. According to a 2008 Wall Street Journal/Harris Interactive exclusive poll, eight in 10 U.S. adults are making lifestyle changes due to rising gas prices. This same study also touts that 94 percent of adults believe it is important to reduce their energy consumption from automobile use.
These ridership statistics seem to indicate that the trolley is a direct beneficiary of these lifestyle changes, as many Bay County residents are already choosing the smart, economical and environmentally-friendly method of transportation.
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.
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