Citizens' Daily Lobby

Although I began my series on Riding the Bus with a plan to document the obstacles to using mass transit for many in Little Rock,  I have found fewer obstacles than expected during my time as a bus-rider.  In fact, I enjoy riding the bus, and voluntarily losing my wheels has wrought unexpected, positive benefits in my outlook and even work performance.  Here’s a brief look at some problems and solutions:

1.  Problem: Yes, it’s hot at the bus stop, especially now that the temperature has settled right around 100 degrees and the mercury doesn’t look like dropping anytime soon.

Solution:  Travel in the morning and late afternoon is bearable.  Most of us don’t have to be out at noon, anyway.  Take along an umbrella for instant shade.

2.  Problem:  The bus doesn’t come to my door.

Solution:  The bus comes within a few blocks for most of us inside the 430/630 beltway.   For those who aren’t so fortunate, it’s possible to find a bus stop and work out a park and ride.   I walk about 1/4  mile to the bus from my house, and about 5 blocks from the bus to work.  I have found that getting outside at the beginning and end of the day allows me some quiet time to prepare for/wind down from work.   Total time from my door to work:  45 minutes.

3.  Problem:  Transfers are difficult and the bus doesn’t run often enough.

Solution:  This is the biggest hurdle to riding the bus in Little Rock.   If you don’t have over an hour to spend getting to work, you’ll need to find the nearest bus that gets you where you’re going without a transfer.   If you have more than one place to be during the day, you will probably have to drive yourself.  Contact  Central Arkansas Transit (CAT) and let the city know what you need.

In an average week, I take the bus 4 work days.  This week I was able to ride every day, and I did not miss my car even once.