Graig Mantle
Click here to download the updated bus schedule
The SLO Transit bus route five was reconfigured by the city of San Luis Obispo at the beginning of the year after it was constantly falling behind by as many as 30 minutes. Route five runs through Cal Poly and stops in front of the University Union.
The new schedule adjustment includes bypassing a stop located further away from campus and allowing the bus to stop in front of the UU more often and an hour later than previously.
“By slightly adjusting the route we were able to make an additional stop at Cal Poly without significantly rising costs since the route isn’t any longer,” said department director of Public Works Tim Bochum.
Cal Poly is not responsible for any of the costs caused by the adjustments, which Bochum said are very minimal, although they did work closely with the city of San Luis Obispo in the decision to change the schedule.
“We met with Associated Students Inc. President Todd Maki last year and talked about positive changes that could be made. We bounced ideas off each other and came up with a solution. It’s really been a rather good experience working together,” Bochum said.
So far the new schedule has received only positive feedback and the bus delays have subsided despite the continued popularity of the route.
“I really like it just because I don’t have to worry about bothering my roommates for a ride or riding my bike home in the cold. It’s nice knowing there’s going to be a bus there when I’m done with class,” said Nick San Juan, psychology and child development senior.
Route five begins downtown and stops at the UU, University Square, Descano and Los Osos Valley Road, Laguna Village, Home Depot, and the Promenade.
Cal Poly also has bus stops in front of the Mott Gym and the Agricultural Science building via bus routes four and six.
PolyCard carriers can ride SLO Transit for free by simply swiping their card. For all others, the fee is $1, $0.50 for seniors and disabled, and free for children.