06/06/06
The Chicago Transit Authority is encouraging motorists to take CTA or other forms of public transportation on June 8 in recognition of National ?Dump the Pump? day. Sponsored by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in response to rising gas prices, "Dump the Pump? day is designed to promote the use of public transit by encouraging residents to leave their vehicles at home and travel by bus or train. Transit agencies across the nation are participating in the event.
"Many people already are choosing public transportation because it is a fast, convenient and affordable option for customers," said CTA President Frank Kruesi. ?With high gas prices and construction along the Dan Ryan Expressway, now is an excellent time for those who haven?t made the switch to try public transit."
CTA is the nation's second largest public transportation system, providing service to Chicago and 40 suburbs. On an average weekday, 1.5 million rides are taken on the CTA bus and rail system. Ridership on the CTA has increased in seven of the past eight years.
According to APTA, transportation is the second highest cost for American families after housing, outpacing both food and healthcare costs. Since January 2003, gas prices have increased by 100 percent. By using public transportation on a regular basis, APTA estimates a person can save between $300 and $3,000 in fuel costs per year.
Public transportation not only is cost-efficient, saving customers the cost of gas, parking and upkeep to their vehicles, it also reduces the impact on the environment by lowering emissions as a result of fewer cars on area roadways.
For travel information, call 836-7000 (all area codes apply), or visit CTA's web site at www.transitchicago.com.
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