The Mesquite Online News - Texas A&M University-San Antonio

VIA park and ride service gets our vote

By Mesquite Editorial Board
What does it take to ensure 100,000 people convene safely to participate in the City of San Antonio Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative March? A lot of collaboration.

Thanks to the MLK Commission and its 16-member executive committee, plus a host of other organizations and volunteers, a drizzly day was transformed into a powerful and diverse community event honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Let us not forget, there was one partner who played an important role in making sure thousands arrived safely at their destination of choice on Monday: VIA Metropolitan Transit.

VIA’s park and ride service to the 2012 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemorative March ensured that thousands, including hundreds of children accompanied by parents and caregivers, were able to reach MLK Drive, without hassle.

Through diligent planning, three park and ride locations offered free parking at Crossroads Mall, the Alamodome and St. Phillips College. Ticket kiosks made the inexpensive purchase of roundtrip tickets fast and easy.

Stephen Andy Scheidt, public information coordinator of VIA Metropolitan Transit, said 3,112 people used the service Jan. 16. From Crossroads Mall, 885 passengers utilized the service. Buses picked up 1,192 passengers from Lot C of the Alamodome, and 1,035 rode from St. Philip’s College.

By all accounts, VIA’s park and ride bus drivers were courteous and helpful. Transit employees were also on hand to direct marchers back to the appropriate buses parked at the end of the march route at Pittman-Sullivan Park.

We commend VIA for being a partner in the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. March and making it possible for thousands of residents, families included, to participate.

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