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When it comes to college life, one of the most pressing questions for parents is often: “How do I get my student home?” Valerie Kramer, the alternative transportation manager at James Madison University (JMU), frequently receives these inquiries. She’s dedicated to making sure parents have the information they need to help their students travel safely and easily during breaks.
Kramer explains that when parents reach out, she takes the time to look up transit options based on where their child’s hometown is. She then crafts a personalized “how-to” guide, pointing out practical solutions for getting students home without needing a car. This hands-on approach ensures families feel supported in managing the logistics of student travel.
During summer orientation and the CHOICES events for new students, Kramer highlights various alternative transportation options available. Among these, two services stand out: Virginia Breeze Bus Lines and Adventures-N-Travel. Both provide accessible and cost-effective solutions for long-distance travel.
The Virginia Breeze service, operated by the Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation, is a vital resource for JMU students. It stops directly at Godwin Hall on campus and provides two main routes: the Valley Flyer, which heads to Washington, D.C., or Blacksburg, Virginia, and the Highlands Rhythm, which offers travel to the same northern and southern destinations.
Avery Daugherty, a JMU alumnus and the statewide programs manager for Virginia DRPT, reflects on the changes in travel options since he was a student. “When I attended JMU, there were not many options for long-distance travel,” he recalls. “The local bus system was great, but getting home required relying on others.” Now, with the Virginia Breeze, students can travel further, reaching destinations like Bristol and eventually Virginia Beach without needing to lean on friends or family for rides.
In exciting developments for the future, the Virginia Breeze will roll out a new route next year along Interstate 64, connecting various locations that include Charlottesville, New Kent County, numerous airports, and cities like Norfolk and Williamsburg. This expansion is not just about convenience; it reflects a commitment to enhancing student mobility across the state.
| Virginia Breeze is a Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation service that stops at Godwin Hall on campus. |
Virginia Breeze takes a proactive stance on ensuring their services are responsive to student needs, particularly during peak travel times. They monitor ticket sales daily, adjusting their bus capacity as necessary to accommodate increased demand during holiday breaks, ensuring students can travel safely and in a timely manner.
Adventures-N-Travel complements the offerings available to JMU students, providing shuttle services to nearby airports, including Baltimore-Washington International and Richmond International, among others. Owner Mike Packett launched this service after identifying a gap in airport transportation options for students without cars. What began as a part-time endeavor has transformed into a full-time operation, providing valuable services during holiday breaks.
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| Students walk to the Godwin Hall bus stop. |
With a commitment to safety and punctuality, Adventures-N-Travel employs professional drivers and provides affordable group transfers during major breaks. This approach not only makes travel more budget-friendly for students but adds a level of reliability that parents appreciate.
For reservations, clients can choose to book through phone or online, highlighting the company’s focus on personalized service rather than just providing transportation. Adventures-N-Travel also extends its services beyond airport transfers, offering shuttles for weekend events, conferences, and various activities around Harrisonburg.
As Daugherty emphasizes, transportation is a fundamental necessity for everyone. “Whatever the case, we all need access,” he states. The growth in alternative transportation options opens up more opportunities for students, enhancing their independence and ability to connect with loved ones or pursue job opportunities.
For families looking to help their students navigate transportation at JMU, both Virginia Breeze and Adventures-N-Travel offer invaluable services. For more details on these transportation options, visit the Alternative Transportation website or follow GetAroundJMU on Instagram.