New partnership with the Rapid
Grand Rapids Community College current students and staff can request to ride the Rapid city bus service, including Laker and Silver Lines, for free.
Students and staff can request the pass beginning Aug. 26, the first day of the fall semester, or the first day students are taking classes, if they are enrolled and attending class.
Students will need to request a new Wave card for each semester they are enrolled in. Students 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.
This new perk allows you to ride The Rapid’s 28 routes for free from your first day of classes to your last each semester. You’ll just need to request a Wave card for each semester you attend GRCC.
How to ride the Rapid for free
Get started by submitting an online form requesting a Wave card.
- Student Wave card form - MyGRCC > Online Center > Student Home Page > Student Resources
- Employee Wave card form - MyGRCC > Online Center > Employee Self Service > Employee Forms
After submitting the form
After your request is made the page will display your eligibility date and first day to pick up your wave pass from GRCC's Center for Student Life & Leadership located in the Student Center at 122 Lyon St. NE in Grand Rapids. You’ll need to show identification such as a RaiderCard, driver’s license or passport to receive your Wave card. Once you have your card, you’ll scan it to board the bus free of charge.
You can learn about bus schedules, routes and more at ridetherapid.org.
Bus services options in-between semesters
The Center for Student Life & Leadership also sells reloadable "partner" Wave Cards! The initial cost is $2.00 and funds can be loaded as needed at our Center for Student Life & Leadership or at the Rapid's website. The partner cards provide riders a rate of $1.25 per ride.
This is a great option for students who may not be in classes and can help fill transportation needs if you are in between semesters or taking a gap in your education.
Lakeshore Bus Services – Holland MAX Transit
GRCC's Lakeshore Campus is located on Route 4. For more details on routes visit https://catchamax.org.
MAX Transit offers a semesterly discounted rate for students or those who qualify for the ADA program. (A valid student ID is required for proof and can be obtained in the main office.) MAX Transit operates both an hourly fixed bus route along with a reserve ride service. Each service has unique fares for qualifying individuals. If you have any questions on pricing, please contact the MAX Transit Customer Service team at (616) 355-1010.