GRAND RAPIDS, Mich, August 15, 2024: Grand Rapids Community College and The Rapid have partnered to provide an all-access transit pass for active students and employees at Grand Rapids Community College, beginning August 26, 2024. This partnership provides a sustainable option to reduce transportation costs and barriers to accessing a college education.
The one-year pilot program allows GRCC students who are enrolled and attending class in a given semester, as well as all employees, to ride The Rapid at no cost to the individual. The Rapid offers 28 fixed routes, 2 BRT lines, and serves 185 square miles.
“We recognize that many of our students face challenges in accessing essentials like food, housing and transportation. Providing cost free access to The Rapid is a meaningful step toward equity, removing barriers to education,” said GRCC President Charles W. Lepper. “By supporting our students and staff, we contribute to a stronger, more successful community.
Students will request a new Wave card for each semester they are enrolled in and will be able to ride from the first day of their first class in the semester to the last day of the semester. Employee Wave cards are valid for up to 12 months. This partner Wave card allows both students and employees to ride the bus with the cost of the fare being paid for by the college.
“We are proud to expand our partnership with Grand Rapids Community College – access to employment and education changes outcomes. This initiative aligns with our commitment to provide reliable, convenient, and sustainable transportation options across our community. By creating this expanded partnership, we are not only supporting education but also contributing to the overall success of our community,” said The Rapid CEO Deb Prato.
To access this benefit, students and employees will submit an online form requesting a Wave card to GRCC’s Office of Student Life & Conduct. They then will be notified of when they can pick up their Wave card to ride The Rapid. Students and employees will need to show identification such as a Raidercard, driver’s license or passport to receive a Wave card. The GRCC’s Office of Student Life & Conduct is located in the Student Center at 122 Lyon St. NE in Grand Rapids.
About Grand Rapids Community College
GRCC was established in 1914 – Michigan’s first community college – and is focused on making college education accessible and affordable. Classes are scheduled in person and online, on weekdays, evenings, and Saturdays at locations throughout Kent and Ottawa counties. We offer traditional liberal arts and occupational career pathways, adult education courses, and skilled training courses and apprenticeships.
About The Rapid
The Interurban Transit Partnership was formed in 2000 to operate a public transportation system they named The Rapid to provide services for the Grand Rapids metro area and beyond. It is organized and operates under Michigan Public Act 196 of 1986 with a 15-member board of directors representing the six municipalities in the service area. Beyond its fixed routes, The Rapid also operates demand response services for people with disabilities, and for those living outside the fixed-route service area, car and vanpooling programs.