Ohio University’s Pedestrian-Friendly Campus Experience
Ohio University boasts a vibrant and pedestrian-friendly campus that caters to the needs of students, faculty, staff, and visitors alike. Nestled in the scenic town of Athens, the campus design prioritizes walkability, making it easy for Bobcats to traverse the grounds without relying solely on vehicles. Although there are approximately 6,000 parking spaces available, many choose to embrace a more active lifestyle by walking or utilizing the university’s versatile transportation services.
Comprehensive Transportation Services
To facilitate mobility across the campus and surrounding areas, Ohio University provides a variety of transportation services. These options are not just convenient but also aim to enhance safety and sustainability for the university community.
CATS Daily Campus Shuttles
Among the most utilized services is the CATS Daily Campus Shuttles. This free shuttle service is designed for students, faculty, staff, and visitors, providing access to numerous destinations throughout the campus. Operating on dedicated transit routes from Monday to Friday during the fall and spring semesters, the shuttles feature real-time tracking capabilities through the innovative TripShot app. This allows users to plan their journeys more effectively, minimizing wait times and enhancing overall convenience.
Evening and Weekend Campus Shuttles (CATS Late Night)
For those venturing out during late hours, the Evening and Weekend Campus Shuttles, also known as CATS Late Night, offer a reliable, on-demand transit option. This service is particularly appealing to students, faculty, and staff seeking a secure way to navigate the campus during nighttime hours. Riders can request a shuttle in advance or use the TripShot app to hail a ride spontaneously.
Athens Public Transit (Bobcat Pass)
In collaboration with the city of Athens, Ohio University has instituted the Bobcat Pass Program. This initiative allows students, staff, and faculty to ride Athens Public Transit routes at no cost, simply by presenting their valid university ID to bus drivers. This program effectively bridges the campus with the wider Athens area, encouraging the exploration of local destinations while reducing the reliance on personal vehicles.
Accessible Transit Service (CATCAB)
Understanding the diverse mobility needs of its community, Ohio University provides the CATCAB service. This free para-transit option supports faculty, staff, and students with mobility limitations, navigating the campus’s unique topographical challenges. Offering door-to-door transport with fully accessible vehicles, CATCAB ensures all Bobcats can move around the campus with ease and dignity.
Airport Shuttle Services
For those traveling to and from campus, Ohio University offers convenient options via Airport Shuttle Services. This is an essential resource for incoming students, guests, or faculty, simplifying travel logistics and ensuring that the transition to campus life is as seamless as possible.
Regional Transit and Alternative Transit Options
In addition to the university’s own services, the region is also served by Gobus, a regional transit system designed for longer travel routes. Students and faculty can easily access this transit option while still engaging in eco-friendly practices. Those interested in exploring more sustainable travel methods should check Ohio University’s Alternative Transit initiatives, which aim to promote responsible transportation choices.
Recent Changes in E-Scooter and E-Bike Availability
It’s important to note that the Bird e-scooters and e-bikes that were previously available on campus are no longer in service. Following Bird’s decision not to renew its contract with the university and the city, students will need to explore alternative transit options for short-distance travel.
Car Ownership on Campus
For students who wish to keep a car on campus, Ohio University encourages contacting the Transportation and Parking Services office to find a parking permit option that best fits their needs. This ensures that everyone can make an informed choice about parking arrangements while contributing to the overall accessibility of the campus.
More Information
For comprehensive details on all transportation services and options, the Transportation and Parking Services website serves as an excellent resource. With a commitment to pedestrian-friendly mobility, Ohio University provides an array of services designed to meet the dynamic needs of its community.