The university is planning a late-night weekend shuttle to provide students with safe, free transportation when they are out enjoying Columbia’s nightlife in Five Points and the Vista. Leading this effort is student body president Patton Byars, who has been working to increase student safety since beginning his term last spring.
Starting Jan. 23, the night shuttle will run on Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. With five stops connecting popular downtown areas with main student hubs on campus, the shuttle will provide a free and safe option for students to get around the city.
All passengers will be required to scan their CarolinaCards when entering the bus, and students will be allowed to bring one guest rider.
By coordinating with USCPD to conduct outdoor location safety and lighting tests this semester, Parking and Transportation Services and student government are working together to get the shuttle ready for students for the upcoming spring semester.
“The night shuttle is going to be a great opportunity for students to enjoy the city in a safer way,” Byars says. “Transportation can be a costly hassle for many students, so I think it's going to be used to a tremendous degree.”
Brian Favela, director of Parking and Transportation Services, says late-night shuttles are regarded as the best programs for providing safe and affordable transportation for students on the weekends.