For those students who need a ride to campus but don’t own a car, there is a solution and it won’t cost a thing.

The Student Senate at Manchester Community College have made this possible by signing a contract with the Manchester Transit Authority to provide free bus service (the U-Pass Program) for students at the college. The annual fee is $5,000, up $1,000 from last year and will continue through May 2010.

Because enrollment is up 12% this year, more students will presumably not only be using the service, but more students will need to use this service. The Senate currently advertises the free bus rides with an electronic sign in the hallway near the cafeteria. The student only needs to show their MCC Student ID card to ride free. The free U-Pass Program will also benefit those attending the college in the second fall term that is available and also for students in the credit and non-credit training courses offered throughout the school year. Ryan DiEoreo, Student Senate Vice President says that because of the huge increase in use, the prices with the Transit Authority inevitably went up. The Senate voted to keep this service in use for the benefit of all students.

Enrollment is up at the college despite the economic recession, which means more potential for not only using the free bus service, but because parking is now considered ‘competitive’ at the school because of the large numbers of students. Even if you can drive to school, why not save money and time by riding the bus? Cut back on gas and the time it takes to park and the student can concentrate their budget on academics. Many students have enrolled at community colleges to save money and prepare for transfer to a larger, private institution as well as mid-career professionals who have decided to start something new. If a student lives in Manchester, the bus is a viable alternative to driving a car, especially if you have to borrow that car from the parents.