While my car was in for repair a few days this week, I tried commuting to work via TARTA. I was pleasantly surprised with the experience.
I live within walking distance of a suburban park & ride, and work downtown. I was able to take a route from near my home that dropped me off within a few blocks of my workplace.
This particular route had primarily what appeared to be business commuter travelers to/from downtown. They seem to be regular riders, as all appeared to be somewhat acquainted. There were about a dozen of the business commuters - more than I actually expected.
Honestly, if gas prices go over $4/gallon this summer, I might consider using this route more frequently.
I could see myself finally carving out some time to read a novel or two, while en route to/from work. And building the walking into my daily routine wouldn't be such a bad thing either. The trip may take a few minutes longer than my normal drive (depending on traffic), but if I can use the time productively instead of just sitting behind the wheel it might not be so bad.
Anyhow, just wanted to share my recent experience as a TARTA work commuter. For those of you who are getting concerned about rising gas prices, it might be worth considering.
(I'd probably still drive on days with inclement weather, but it was a good experience when the weather was decent.)
Glad to hear it worked out for you!
I've been thinking about doing the same thing myself. Glad to hear your experience was a good one.
Just wondering: how long did it take you to go each way? You're in Sylvania, right?
Yes. Using this particular route, it took about 45 minutes each way. (Not counting the time it took me to walk a few blocks.)
However, I've discovered that there is an express route that departs from the Meijer on Central that would only take about 25 minutes of actual bus time. That wouldn't be much different than the time it takes for me to drive myself. (And I could read or do something productive with that 25 minutes.). It goes straight downtown from Meijer instead of taking a loop around Westfield, so that's why its so much faster.
I might consider giving that route a shot even after my car is fixed!
I'd think that from your home to your work, it wouldn't be a terribly long ride. (And you'd get out of dealing with the parking annoyances!)
Yeah.
I've had mostly good experiences with TARTA over the years. Occasional issues, but overall pretty positive.
I almost always use it when I'm heading downtown, which is probably 5 or 6 times a week.
mom2, weren't you telling us about bad parking experience downtown recently (you or someone lost their long-time monthly reservation)? that alone would be enuff to push people to the bus. I used to take the #13/32R from the Oregon line all the way to MCO and it wasn't bad. only late for work once during a snow storm in 4 years. TARTA has been berry berry good to me. :)
Nana, that was me.
Thanks to mom2, I'm thinking about taking the bus -- it stops a half-block from my house, and around the corner from my work. Just wondering how I'll swing it with my kids in the a.m...