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Wednesday, November 06, 2024

Gas price increases won't affect RTS riders

Students might be paying more money at the gas pump this year, which could push more students onto buses.

The average price for a gallon of gas is about 30 cents more than it was this time last year, according to a statement made by AAA.

David Denslow, a UF economics professor, said gas prices are relatively stable now and probably won't see major changes anytime soon. If prices increase, he said, they won't have a large impact on university transportation because there are plans in place for gas price fluctuation.

Regional Transit System is a viable alternative for those affected by gas prices, said Chip Skinner, spokesman for RTS.

He said unless gas prices reach $5 a gallon, RTS compensates for any fluctuation by adjusting its budget before charging riders more.

"A lot of people don't realize that over 50 percent of our operating budget does come from the University of Florida," he said.

This portion is comprised of fees tied into students' credit hours and campus redevelopment funds.

RTS transports about 50,000 people a day, Skinner said.

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