Why Ride With SAM?

wave

Ride the Wave of Benefits:  Why Public Transit is Your Ticket to a Better Tomorrow!

Public transit systems have been key resources in rural, suburban, and urban settings for generations, and with good reason. Beyond the convenience of getting from point A to point B, public transit offers a wide range of benefits that extend far beyond individual commuters. Along with the individual benefits there are also economic and environmental benefits that improve the quality of life for everyone. What are those benefits, you ask?

1. Economic Advantages:

  • Cost Savings:  Using public transit is much more economical than owning and maintaining a vehicle. Skip the cost of fuel, insurance and maintenance. The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) states that $0.16 of every household $1 is spent on transportation and 93% is spent to buy, maintain and operate cars. Households who utilize public transit and one vehicle can save over $13,000 per year. https://www.apta.com/news-publications/public-transportation-facts/  All SAM bus rides are free in town and it only costs $1.00 per trip for out-of-town rides. We also have discounted monthly and 24-trip passes.
  • Job Creation:  Investment in public transit systems lead to job creation in construction, operation and maintenance, stimulating the local economy. According APTA, “Every $1 invested in public transportation generates $5 in economic returns...every $10 million in operating investment yields $32 million in increase business sales.” https://www.apta.com/news-publications/public-transportation-facts/
  • Generating Income for Local Business: The availability of public transportation also attracts homeowners and tourists, who, in turn, frequent local businesses. APTA states that home values increase up to 24% when public transit is nearby. APTA notes that 87% of trips on public transit have a direct impact on the local economy. The SAM Shopper Shuttle takes riders directly to all of the shopping centers 6 times a day, Monday through Saturday.
  • Accessibility:  Public transit provides affordable mobility options for those who may not be able to afford a car or drive. This promotes social and economic equity. All SAM vehicles are equipped with ramps or lifts and have wheelchair securements. Drivers are trained to provide assistance to those who request help boarding and deboarding.

 2. Environmental Benefits:

  • Reduced Emissions:  Public transit produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions per passenger mile than an individual car, reducing pollution. In addition, public transit often utilizes alternative fuel sources that greatly limit emissions. SAM uses clean burning diesel fuel for all our large vehicles and we are in the process of converting to electric.
  • Less Congestion:  Fewer cars on the road means less traffic congestion and reduced idling, leading to reduced fuel consumption and emissions.
  • Energy Efficiency:  Public transit is often more energy-efficient per passenger mile compared to private vehicles. This is even more so when electric or hybrid buses are utilized.

3.  Positive Community Impacts:

  • Reduced Traffic Accidents: Reducing the number of vehicles on the road leads to fewer accidents and safer streets. APTA estimates the risk of being in an accident is reduced by more than 90% when using public transportation. SAM drivers are safety oriented professional drivers! They receive an initial 96 hours of training followed by monthly refreshers on safety topics
  • Increased Social Interaction:  Public transit encourages social interaction, fostering a sense of community among passengers and reducing feelings of isolation. In a recent SAM bus survey, a passenger wrote, “I am pleased ant grateful today to be on such a nice, clean, safe, friendly atmosphere bus. The driver was just the right kind of right for a restful, peaceful Sunday trip.” That is just one of many, compliments SAM receives from the community of riders.

4.  Health and Well-Being:

  • Physical Activity:  Walking to and from transit stops can provide passengers with essential physical activity, contributing to healthier lifestyles. Pro-tip: Be at the bus stop 5 minutes early to ensure you do not have to run to try and catch your bus!!
  • Stress Reduction:  Public transit allows leaves the driving to someone else. Travel time can be used to focus on work, leisure or professional development. Some SAM buses are equipped with WiFi so you can easily connect for work or personal business.
  • Air Quality:  Reducing emissions benefits public health by reducing respiratory problems and related illnesses.

5.  Time Efficiency:

  • Productivity:  Commuting via public transit allows passengers to use travel time productively, whether for work, leisure or personal development. Who couldn’t use more time to write that report, talk to a friend or take a nap!

6. Sustainability and Future-Proofing

  • Long-Term Sustainability:  Investing in public transit is a step toward sustainable planning and transportation solutions for the future. SAM makes plans from the Transit Master Plan that directs the future of the service based on public needs. Stay tuned for an upcoming exciting new announcement from SAM!
  • Reduced Reliance on Fossil Fuels:  As public transit systems transition to even cleaner energy sources, the City becomes less dependent on fossil fuels.

Public transit is not just about getting from one place to another; it’s about building more sustainable, connected and vibrant communities. The benefits extend to individuals, communities and the planet, making it a wise choice for those seeking a more economical, environmentally friendly, fun way to travel. By choosing public transit, we can all play a part in shaping a brighter, greener future for ourselves.

  • Printer-friendly version