UMB/UMBC Shuttle

For nearly twenty years, a shuttle line has run from the downtown UMB campus to the UMBC campus in Catonsville, stopping at the Rolling Road Park and Ride in between. A variety of members from each campus use the service, including students participating in classes, research, and teaching.

Late last month, UMB considered discontinuing the funding for the program. After a number of students and community members spoke out on the issue, UMB decided to continue the service at least through the Fall 2008 semester. UMB administrators have concerns that the original purpose of the service is being neglected, because more UMB staff and faculty seem to be using the line than students.

In my view, a transportation service for students from UMB to UMBC cannot be discontinued--too many of our students right now rely on the service to enhance their academic experience, and many more should be doing the same through greater collaboration between the two institutions. Possibly, UMB and UMBC can work together to reform who can ride the shuttle and limit ridership only to students. But eliminating the service now or in four months would not be wise.

Should you have further concerns on this issue, feel free contact officials at either campus:
UMB- 410-706-6603 or 410-706-1216
UMBC- transit@umbc.edu

If interested in taking the shuttle, check out the route schedule.

What are your thoughts? Do you think your transportation fees should help support this service?