Many students who attend Colorado institutions of higher learning commute to their campuses by using public transportation including the expanding Denver RTD Light rail system. Students view the light rail system as a cheaper, more convenient way to get to school and there is yet to be a campus that does not approve RTD fees by vote. The light rail makes stops on Auraria Campus and University of Denver Campus and there are plans to expand to Red Rocks Community College and CU-Boulder by the end of the decade.
"I just think it’s easier to get to school on the train than to drive," said Belinda Joyce, 20, CU- Denver student. "I care more about my cell phone than my car."
Joyce takes the light rail to Auraria to get to class and often talks on the phone or listens to her ipod during the commute. The campus charges at least $2.00 per day to park a car on campus, so it is more affordable for her to use public transportation. She says the only place she drives to regularly is 24 Hour Fitness.