Rising gas prices are putting financial pressure on both drivers and public transportation systems across the region. For many residents, filling up at the pump has become increasingly difficult and agencies like CATA are also facing major increases in fuel expenses.
- Rising gas prices are impacting both drivers and public transportation agencies like Capital Area Transportation Authority.
- Lansing resident Ali says he now relies on an electric bike and public transit to avoid high fuel costs.
- CATA CEO Brad T. Funkhouser says the agency is spending about $90,000 more per month on fuel and uses nearly one million gallons annually.
- CATA is exploring hybrid and zero-emission buses to improve fuel efficiency and reduce long-term operating costs.
WATCH: High gas prices drive up costs for CATA
High gas prices drive up costs for CATA
Lansing resident Ali says the rising cost of gas has forced him to rethink how he travels. He now relies heavily on his electric bike and public transportation to save money.
“I get 50 miles on a 12-hour full charge,” Ali said. “I can ride from here to Detroit if I wanted to.”
Even with the electric bike, Ali says he also depends on CATA buses to get around the city. Watching gas prices continue to climb has been frustrating.
“To see the prices go from 2 dollars and something to 2.85 to 3.85, now 6 dollars and something, that’s ridiculous,” he said…