Public Transportation

Ok, so as a state employee, one of our benefits the past few years is an Easy Pass for the MTA bus system. Like a lot of people this didn’t appeal to me very much until the recent gas crisis. The last thing I figured I would ever want to do is ride a smelly bus with a bunch of strangers to and from work every day. However, after noticing that my gas expenses had almost tripled in the last few months I decided it was time to give this perk a shot.

So off I went to fill out my state application for a card. This card is electronically created for each individual and allows you to ride the metro buses to and from work for free. They can’t be used to run errands or anything like that, but I figured cutting out about 34 miles a day in commuting wouldn’t be so bad.

Monday was my first day on the bus and I rather enjoyed it. The people leave you alone and it doesn’t smell at all. I have already ridden the bus twice this week and actually missed it today when I had to drive to work because of an Dr.’s appointment. It is so relaxing. You get on the bus and read. Yesterday there was even a traffic accident that didn’t faze me since I didn’t have to drive and pay attention. It’s also extremely stress free. I get to work and I’m not stressed from traffic and I get home with the same results. Plus, I’m only putting about 4 miles a day on my car!! The only down side to my experience is that I’m the first pickup in the mornings and the last drop off in the afternoon. It’s doubled my commute time, but there is always a little give

I guess when you are trying to save money.

So, in my opinion if you have the time and patience for the bus, Go For It! I’m finding I’m much more relaxed and I’m not spending as much on gas.