August 15, 2024
Grand Rapids Community College and The Rapid have partnered to provide an all-access transit pass for active students and employees at Grand Rapids Community College, beginning August 26. This partnership provides a sustainable option to reduce transportation costs and barriers to accessing a college education.
The one-year pilot program allows GRCC students who are enrolled and attending class in a given semester, as well as all employees, to ride The Rapid at no cost to the individual. The Rapid offers 28 fixed routes. 2 BRIT lines, and serves 185 square miles.
“We recognize that many of our students face challenges in accessing essentials like food, housing, and transportation. Providing cost free access to The Rapid is a meaningful step toward equity, removing barriers to education,” said GRCC President Charles W. Lepper. “By supporting our students and staff, we contribute to a stronger, more successful community.”
Students will request a new Wave card for each semester they are enrolled and will be able to ride for free from the first day of their first class in the semester to the last day of the semester. Employee Wave cards are valid for up to 12 months. The Wave card allows both students and employees to board the buses free of charge.
"We are proud to expand our partnership with Grand Rapids Community College - access to employment and education changes outcomes. This initiative aligns with our commitment to provide reliable, convenient, and sustainable transportation options across our community. By creating this expanded partnership, we are not only supporting education but also contributing to the overall success of our community,” said The Rapid CEO Deb Prato.
To access this benefit, students and employees will submit an online form requesting a Wave card by signing in to My GRCC. Students will select the GRCC Online Center tile, and then select Student Resources to access the request form. Employees will select the GRCC Online Center tile, choose Employee Self Service, and then select Employee Forms to access the request form. They then will be notified of when they can pick up their Wave card to ride The Rapid.
Students and employees will need to show identification such as a Raidercard, driver’s license or passport to receive a Wave card from the GRCC’s Office of Student Life & Conduct located in the Student Center at 122 Lyon St. NE in Grand Rapids.
This story was reported by Amy Soper.