To the Editor,
I’m writing in response to your one-sided, narrow-minded article about the “free” Journal Square shuttle bus (“It’s Time We Get Over Free Shuttle Bus Issue,” Gothic Times, March 25, 2014). You are quick to make assumptions and offer other suggestions, but you do not use any evidence to support any of your opinions.
The biggest mistake you made was right in the headline; nothing on this campus is free. For one semester alone, students pay a whopping $1546.05 in fees alone! These fees include facilities and student services. Student pay for shuttle services, make the proper claims.
Most students relying on transportation to Journal Square aren’t lazy, as you make them out to seem. This shuttle only runs at night. Most students travel alone and feel more comfortable commuting with help from NJCU.
A cab for five people to Journal Square will certainly not cost under $10 dollars. Most cabs charge additional fair for more than one person. Maybe it will cost under $10 dollars for one or two students, not $5.
Stop singling out those who rely on public transportation. In reality, more student who are parked down the block complain about shuttle bus service than those who need to get to Journal Square. Talk to students and faculty online for the shuttle at night, many would be willing to pay an extra fee to ensure a safe commute home.
The Journal Square shuttle is incredibly convenient for students looking for a way to get to home from classes at night. Of course adding additional service during the day would be beneficial for those who rely on the shuttle, but in reality we all know this will more than likely never happen.
Service, however, should begin earlier and run a little bit later; this would allow for students to know that they are indeed able to reach Journal Square safely and efficiently.
Sincerely,
Caitlin Mota,
English Journalism major,
East Newark