All Aboard: The Ultimate Guide to Riding GCRTA to School

For many students, riding public transportation to school is a great way to get to and from class on time. Riding GCRTA (Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority) can be a convenient and cost-effective alternative to driving or taking a taxi. However, it can be intimidating for those who are unfamiliar with how the system works. To help make the transition easier, we’ve created this guide to give you the knowledge and resources you need to start riding GCRTA to school with confidence.

Riding GCRTA is a great way to save money on gas and reduce the carbon footprint. Did you know that students are able to ride GCRTA under a discounted fare price at participating schools, colleges, and universities? For college and university students, this program is called the U-Pass program.

Understanding Fares and Payment Options

Understanding the fares and payment options of GCRTA is crucial for commuting to school using public transportation. Here's what you need to know:

GCRTA offers a variety of fare options to suit different needs. One common option is the single-ride fare, which allows you to pay for a single trip. However, if you plan to ride GCRTA frequently, it may be more cost-effective to consider purchasing a pass.

Passes typically provide unlimited rides within a specified time period, such as a week or a month. As a student, you may be eligible for discounted fares or student passes, so be sure to inquire about any special offers available to you. When it comes to payment, GCRTA accepts various methods. You can pay with cash on the bus or train, but exact change is usually required. Alternatively, you can use a contactless payment option like EZfare.

Tips for Riding GCRTA

Riding GCRTA to school can be a reliable mode of transportation. Here are some valuable tips for riding public transportation:

• Plan your trip in advance:
  To find out what route you need to ride visit riderta.com for trip planning or download the Transit app. Have questions? Call our Community Connection Line at 216-621-9500.
• Allow for extra travel time:
  At certain times of the day, traffic is increased and could cause potential delays. Students are returning to school and a growing number of people are returning to work. Be prepared for potential higher demand as you are going to or leaving school.
• Stay safe and alert at all times:
  GCRTA wants riders to stay safe. Look up when walking and look out for others. Look and listen whenever you cross the street and use the crosswalk. Only cross the street AFTER the bus leaves, and never chase after the bus. When summer turns to fall and there’s less natural light, wave something bright, like your phone or a flashlight to make yourself more visible to bus drivers at your bus stop. And remember, our operators are there to help you if have questions when riding the bus.

We look forward to seeing and serving all students using GCRTA to get to school this fall!