New plan would put Wake County students on city buses
RALEIGH, North Carolina (WTVD) -- Raleigh officials are getting ready to roll out a new transportation option for Wake County School District students - city buses.
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Under the plan, children would be offered free fares for GoRaleigh buses. The Wake County School District is backing this new transportation option.
"Anytime somebody is offering something to our students and helping to improve our transportation infrastructure, it's always a good thing," said WCPSS spokesperson Lisa Luten.
Some parents like the idea.
"I think it sounds great, and I think I would probably try it," said parent Emily Larson.
Another parent, Mike Cassetta, agreed.
"It just seems like an easier way to get around and it would be less expensive for the taxpayers," he said.
But Amy Folkerts, who lives in Fuquay-Varina, has some reservations.
"I'm a little leery about this," she said. "I wouldn't be closed-minded to it. I would have to look into it more until I decided whether I'd put my child on that bus."
Here's what's happening:
- -Students ages 13-18 would get a free bus pass
- City will pay for the fares
- Move estimated to cost more than $100,000
- No date when students can started using new passes
Raleigh officials said leaders are trying to figure out whether there's money in this year's budget or whether they'll have to set aside cash in the next fiscal year.
Go Triangle spokesperson Mike Charbonneau told ABC11 that students are already receiving a discount and the new transportation option could be opened up to students outside of Raleigh.
