380 Express Encouraged By Ridership Increase

About 6 months into the launch of its service, operators of the 380 Express are encouraged by its success so far.

The Cedar Rapids-to-Iowa City bus service across Interstate 380 saw nearly 2,600 passengers in October,  its first month. In March, it reported 4,200 passengers, according to the East Central Iowa Council of Governments, which manages the service.

Soon after it launched, it began offering Saturday service, which is expected to increase numbers and be an advantage to those wanting to attend football games at Kinnick this fall. Now, reports say that the 380 Express is offering FREE service this Thursday, April 25, to encourage more use and promote "Get on Board" day, an initiative to promote awareness and increase support for public transportation.

Its main goals have been to serve the UI Hospitals and Clinics, Kirkwood Community College (which has been its most-used stop), Iowa River Landing and to alleviate traffic for those commuting between Cedar Rapids and Iowa City during an upcoming 380 interchange project that could take the next five years. A dedicated stop at Coral Ridge Mall is reportedly still not a reality.

Surveys continue among riders to determine how to better improve the service.

Learn more here

[Via Gazette]