Boise, Idaho – My name is Katrina, and I live in Boise, Idaho, where I work at a daycare. Until recently, I relied on the bus to get to work and run errands. It was really helpful for me, especially since I don’t drive. Public transit gave me the freedom to get where I needed to go without the stress or cost of owning a car.
Before the bus system changed last year, my commute was simple. I had a short, six-minute walk to the nearest stop, and the bus would drop me off just a minute away from my job. It was quick, reliable, and affordable—only $1.50 per ride. But after the transit agency shortened the routes last year, everything became more complicated. Now, I’d have to walk 14 minutes to the nearest stop, and then another 20 minutes from the drop-off to my job. That’s just too much, especially when the weather’s bad or I’m pressed for time.
Because of these changes, I had to switch to using Uber. It’s faster, but it’s also much more expensive. On a normal day, I spend $6.50 for a ride, and on busier days, it can be as much as $10. That adds up quickly. The bus was not only cheaper, but it also ran on a consistent schedule, so I could plan my day without worrying about delays or long waits that I sometimes experience using Uber.
If the bus routes were restored or expanded, it would make a huge difference for me. It would mean getting to work or the grocery store without spending a fortune on rideshare services. Public transit helps people save money, reduces stress, and offers the freedom to live without depending on cars. I hope decision-makers invest in expanding and improving transit systems, not just for me but for all the working families who depend on it.
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This story is from our most recent report, Working Families Ride the Bus, which focuses on workers from across the country who rely on public transit to stay connected with their livelihoods, their families, and greater opportunities.