Penn State’s Transportation Services wants to ensure that students, faculty, and staff can easily get around campus, especially during winter months.
Campus shuttle services include the CATABUS Blue Loop, White Loop, and Red Link, along with two Campus Shuttle routes. These are free and run from early morning until late at night, making it easy to travel without facing the cold.
CATA also operates 15 Community Service routes that connect campus to areas in State College and Centre Region. Popular stops include grocery stores and restaurants. A one-way trip costs $2.50, and riders can pay with cash, or buy passes via the Token Transit app. The app is available on both iOS and Android, allowing easy fare transactions.
For real-time tracking of buses and shuttles, students can download the Penn State Go app. This helps avoid long waits outside in winter.
CATA offers a vanpool program in partnership with Commute with Enterprise. This initiative connects workers living nearby, allowing them to share rides in a van or SUV. This not only saves money on gas but also gives commuters time to relax or catch up on work during their journey.
In addition to buses, the Spin e-bike share program offers over 300 electric bikes for those wanting an alternative way to travel. Bikes are accessible year-round, and the Bike Den can offer advice on winter riding plans.
For students needing late-night rides, the Penn State Ride Smart by Lyft program provides eight $10 credits each month for rides from downtown back to residential areas between Thursday and Saturday nights. Additionally, the Innovation Park/Medical Center Lyft program gives 20 $20 credits per month for rides between the campus and Mount Nittany Medical Center.
Safety is also a priority. The University Police operate a Safe Walk service, offering walking companions on campus from dusk to dawn every day of the year.
In case you need further details about transportation options, check out Transportation Services or reach out directly at 814-865-1436.
New Insights
Recent surveys show that public transport use in college towns is on the rise, with 63% of students preferring shuttle services due to convenience and cost-effectiveness. College towns have become more focused on sustainability, with increased investments in biking and carpool initiatives. The move toward e-bikes also reflects a nationwide trend; in fact, the e-bike market is projected to grow significantly in the coming years, with expected growth rates of 20% annually.
By combining various transportation options and promoting safety measures, Penn State is adapting well to meet the mobility needs of its community while fostering an eco-friendly environment.
