WASHINGTON — There’s something new to add to the list of things that are coming back in style: bus travel.
Carriers that pick-up and drop-off curbside — such as BoltBus and Megabus — boosted trips 32 percent in 2011, and intercity bus services were the sole major long-distance passenger mode that grew significantly, according to a new study released by researchers at DePaul University.
Curbside operators, which pick passengers up at a bus stop on the curb rather than at large bus stations, grew the fastest among all long distance travel modes, with the number of departures increasing and the number of passengers increasing, the report says.
Curbside long-distance bus operators first came on the scene in 2006, and while they have continued to gain popularity, they saw their greatest expansion this year.
Researchers say there are several factors at work, namely the poor economy and high gas prices mean more people are looking for less-expensive ways to travel. But also, more people are aware the service is available and many say they like the amenities, such as free Wi-Fi.
Also, bus companies have added additional routes, making travel to different locations easier. BoltBus now has a New Jersey hub in Newark and daily buses to Baltimore, Philadelphia and Boston.
And at $1, passengers can’t beat the price. Although, as more customers choose this mode of transportation, the prices are sure to rise soon.
WTOP’s Bob Kur contributed to this report. Follow WTOP on Twitter.
(Copyright 2011 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)
