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Car-sharing program launches on campus, competes with SU's option
By Bethany Bump
Posted: 11/12/08, 11:44 PM EST Section: News
environment, but there is still more to do.
"The biggest thing we need to focus on is energy conservation," he said. "We need to reduce waste, reduce energy use, and adopt more efficient energy technologies. We can look at ways to expand programs like CuseCar, Zipcar and the Commuter Challenge so we use more efficient modes of transportation."
CuseCars can be reserved for as little as one hour, but must be reserved at least 15 minutes in advance, up to three months ahead of time. The car can be picked up and returned to its original location. The membership covers the first 60 miles driven, with an additional fee of at least $0.20 per mile over 60 miles.
Some students said they would use the programs because they feel the burden of public transportation and the hassle of not having a car on campus.
Yuto Murai, a junior environmental studies major at ESF, participated in service learning through the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service, and recalled a time when his group had to meet at Gifford Zoo in Syracuse.
"I didn't have a car to get there, or public transportation of any kind," he said. "I ended up having to ride my bike there. It took 30 minutes. It creates a problem, especially with the Syracuse climate. I'd have to ride my bike in the snow."
Murai said he was likely to sign up for CuseCar simply because he needs a car to get around.
Genesis Devine, a junior wildlife science major, agreed.
"I usually have to rely on friends for a ride," Devine said. "So I definitely think this is a good resource for students. Although, it is really expensive so they should only use it when they need it."
blbump@syr.edu
"The biggest thing we need to focus on is energy conservation," he said. "We need to reduce waste, reduce energy use, and adopt more efficient energy technologies. We can look at ways to expand programs like CuseCar, Zipcar and the Commuter Challenge so we use more efficient modes of transportation."
CuseCars can be reserved for as little as one hour, but must be reserved at least 15 minutes in advance, up to three months ahead of time. The car can be picked up and returned to its original location. The membership covers the first 60 miles driven, with an additional fee of at least $0.20 per mile over 60 miles.
Some students said they would use the programs because they feel the burden of public transportation and the hassle of not having a car on campus.
Yuto Murai, a junior environmental studies major at ESF, participated in service learning through the Mary Ann Shaw Center for Public and Community Service, and recalled a time when his group had to meet at Gifford Zoo in Syracuse.
"I didn't have a car to get there, or public transportation of any kind," he said. "I ended up having to ride my bike there. It took 30 minutes. It creates a problem, especially with the Syracuse climate. I'd have to ride my bike in the snow."
Murai said he was likely to sign up for CuseCar simply because he needs a car to get around.
Genesis Devine, a junior wildlife science major, agreed.
"I usually have to rely on friends for a ride," Devine said. "So I definitely think this is a good resource for students. Although, it is really expensive so they should only use it when they need it."
blbump@syr.edu
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Kyle
posted 2/11/09 @ 1:35 PM EST
Just to set the record straight, the rate for CuseCar has since dropped to $50 per year for students, which includes the sign-up fee.
CuseCar also has locations downtown, in the Hawley-Green neighborhood, and is planning to place a car in the Westcott area. (Continued…)
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