As you plan your New Year’s goals for the upcoming year, one resolution to consider is finding a new way to get around town! Whether you are looking to travel to work, school or maybe just a weekend activity, we encourage you to think about utilizing public transportation in 2022.
Here are just some of the benefits to adding public transit to your daily commute:
- Public transit can save you money
If you are trying to find new ways to save money in 2022, switching from driving your own vehicle to using public transit could have an immediate impact on your wallet. In 2019, the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) reported that Las Vegans could save approximately $792 per month just by switching from driving to public transit.
The RTC offers many different passes to fit the needs of every Southern Nevadan, including standard residential fare as low as $2 for 2 hours, or reduced fares for Veterans, youth (6-17), students (K-12), senior citizens (60 and over), persons with disabilities, Medicare eligible persons, and mobility trained customers.
- Public transit is safe
Not only is public transit cost-effective, it is also very safe. In the last several years, we have invested more than $21 million in safety and security enhancements that include state-of-the-art cameras on all buses, a live camera look-in feature for law enforcement, as well as security officers who patrol buses, stops and transit centers and can be dispatched immediately to any reported incidents.
The safety and security of our riders and drivers are top priorities for the RTC, and those considering using transit can expect a secure experience.
- Public transit is better for the environment
As the world moves to more eco-friendly solutions, riding transit is the perfect opportunity to help reduce your carbon footprint and reduce emissions. In fact, six billion gallons of gasoline are saved each year by using public transportation instead of driving a personal car, according to APTA’s 2021 Fact Book.
Over the past 10 years, we have been transitioning our fleet from diesel-fueled buses to buses powered by Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). A decade ago, CNG vehicles comprised just 12% of our overall fleet but today, that number has jumped to 88%, helping to meet our sustainability goals of a 100% zero emissions fleet by 2035.
- Public transit allows you to multitask
Taking public transit gives you the opportunity to focus on other things rather than the road. You can get some work done during your commute, listen to music, or take advantage of our partnership with the Las Vegas-Clark County Library District (LVCCLD). Through the Libby app, get instant access to digital books, audiobooks, magazines, independent films, concerts, music, documentaries and much more on any smart device while riding or waiting for the bus. To get started, access RTC Wi-Fi for free and visit LVCCLD.org/anywhere with your phone or tablet and download the free Libby app, available on iPhone and Android devices.
So, are you ready to make the resolution to change your commute? We hope to see you out on our buses in the new year!
