#89—Take A Ride on Long Beach's Eco-Friendly Buses

Taking the bus can be a relaxing alternative to sitting behind the wheel. It's also an eco-friendly way to conserve energy for the environment, and with Earth Day just days away, we’ve made it #89 of Patch's 100 Things To Do In Long Beach series. 

In 2010 the City Of Long Beach's Transportation Department added four hybrid electric buses to their fleet, one of which is a red trolley. The buses generate off the breaking system, which means when the driver presses on the breaks the battery gets recharged, eliminate air and noise pollution, and cuts 80 percent of gasoline cost since the buses run on clean diesel only when accelerated over 30 mph. 

The buses are also equipped with a hydraulic system that allows the floor of the bus to drop closer to the ground, eliminating the need for steps and providing easier accessibility for handicap and senior passengers.   

Long Beach's new “Go Green” buses are a perfect way to embrace Earth Day, and an ideal way to catch a ride since all Long Beach and Point Lookout bus rides will be free on that day, April 22. 

"We're always trying to get people to take the bus," said Brendan Costello, director of the Department of Transportation. "Offering free bus rides on Earth Day is a good way for us to increase the number of people who will board the buses, while giving our everyday passengers a surprising break."  

The buses operate five routes in Long Beach and Point Lookout, which all begin at the terminal next to the Long Island Rail Road Station on Park Avenue.  Schedules for the buses are available from all bus drivers, as well as in the lobby of the train station.  

So if you've never taken the bus before, or if you just want to give yourself and your car a day off, then grab your book, Kindle or iPod, walk to the nearest bus stop, and enjoy letting someone else take the wheel for a change. Who knew doing something for the environment could feel so good? 

Costs: A single ride is $1.50.  Students and senior citizens tickets are $.50.

Season: Year Round

Notes: All buses are free on Friday in celebration of Earth Day