News Release

Omnitrans’ “Go Smart” Program Offers Students Free Ride to College

SAN BERNARDINO, CA - College students around the Inland Valley will have the opportunity to take a break from the high cost of higher education this fall, as Omnitrans’ new “Go Smart” program provides them with a free seven-day transit pass.

“’Go Smart’ is an opportunity for college students to try the bus and see how well it can work into their busy schedule,” said Director of Marketing Wendy Williams. “Like most of our customers, students are looking for transportation solutions, and Omnitrans is pleased to offer economic, convenient, and environmentally responsible service.”

In partnership with Cal State University San Bernardino, Chaffey, Crafton Hills and San Bernardino Valley Colleges, Omnitrans is gifting incoming students with a special “Go Smart” pass which, when activated during the first week of the fall session, is good for seven consecutive days of unlimited travel anywhere in the agency’s 480 square-mile service area. More than 33,000 of the $10-value passes have been distributed to encourage students to consider the benefits of public transit.

“At San Bernardino Valley College, the Omnitrans “Go Smart” promotion has been met with great excitement from students and staff alike,” said San Bernardino Valley College Director of Marketing and Public Relations Craig Petinak. “The willingness of Omnitrans to pilot this program confirms their interest in helping our students realize their future. As a campus, we welcome opportunities like this when we can address two of our strategic initiatives (access and partnerships) with one program while offering even more to our students.”

“Go Smart” passes are available for students at campus bookstores and other locations at the schools listed above; for details and personalized trip planning, visit www.omnitrans.org.

Founded in 1976, Omnitrans is the public transit agency serving fifteen cities and the unincorporated areas of the Inland Valley of San Bernardino County in Southern California. Omnitrans currently operates 32 fixed bus routes in a
480-square-mile area. Omnitrans also provides OmniLink and Access
demand-response service, and is a partner in the Inland Empire Connection express bus service. The American Public Transportation Association has named Omnitrans the Outstanding Transit System of its size in both 1995
and 1999. Omnitrans also has received twelve safety awards from the
National Safety Council.