Metropass is the ultimate transit pass that provides unlimited rides 24 hours a day. It's valid on all regular routes, as well as express, local, limited-stop, or Downtown Zone routes. It may not, however, be used on some special event services. You'll have access to almost anywhere in the metro area.

Eligibility
To be eligible for Metropass, you must be on at least a 50% appointment and be on payroll with the University of Minnesota. In some cases, a person may be eligible for Metropass but not on the University of Minnesota payroll system. A Metropass would be issued to these persons, provided they are willing to pay for their pass on a quarterly basis.

Price
Beginning September 1, 2007, the monthly price of Metropass decreases from $64 to $45 to make the program more affordable with the goal to increase the number of faculty and staff signed up to more than 2,000 participants.

The Metropass is deducted directly from your paycheck. Due to the reduction in price, Metropass holders will see different amounts deducted from their paychecks for the next few weeks.

Post tax election forms are available at Parking and Transportation Services when starting your contract.

Ordering
Click on http://buspass.umn.edu and order Metropass online. Your Metropass will be made (with your U Card photo on it) and sent to you in the mail. Or, you can choose to pick it up at Parking and Transportation Services in Room 300 Transportation and Safety Building (511 Washington Avenue SE).

If your pass is lost or stolen, you will need to report it to Parking and Transportation Services. You can fill out the online form and pick up a replacement Metropass within a few days. You will be required to pay an additional $12 replacement fee. If you have questions, call the buspass coordinator at 612-624-1523 or e-mail buspass@umn.edu.

Environment
Mass transit is an environmentally-friendly alternative to single-occupancy vehicles. Metropass will reduce daily carbon monoxide emissions. A bus carrying as few as seven passengers is more fuel-efficient than the average single-occupancy vehicle.

Bus Information
Bus schedule displays are located at the St. Paul Student Center, the West Bank Skyway, and Coffman Union. To speak with a representative or to access 24-hour automated route and schedule information, call the Transit Information Center at 612-373-3333 (TTY 612-341-0140). Metro Transit's "How to Ride Guide" is available at Parking and Transportation Services, by calling the Transit Information Center, or clicking on www.metrotransit.org. Buses also carry TAKEOUT, a monthly newsletter containing information about service changes, special programs, and bus riding tips. For more information on Metropass, contact Parking and Transportation Services at 612-624-1523.

Bus Service
Metro Transit provides most of the regular route bus service in the Twin Cities. Metropass is also accepted on Minnesota Valley Transit Authority, Southwest Metro Transit, Maple Grove Transit, Plymouth Metrolink, North Suburban Lines, BE-Line, Roseville Circulator, Route 55, and other contract services. More than 30 bus routes from all over the Twin Cities serve the University campus.

Other Benefits

Bikes
Many buses have bike racks so you can bike one way, or just part of the way, and ride the bus for the rest of your journey. Bikes and buses are a great combination to get to and around campus. Routes 6 and the new 101 have easy to use bike racks on every trip. Once you get to campus, more than 6,000 bike rack spaces are available. And, all full-size Campus Shuttle buses are equipped with racks. Bike racks hold two bikes and accommodate any bike style or size. Using the bike racks is easy, and they have thoroughly tested for safety and ease of use.

Accessibility
Regional transit providers are committed to providing accessible service for people of all mobility levels. Call the Transit Information Center at 612-373-3333 to determine which routes currently provide accessible service.

Guaranteed Ride Home
Metropass users can sign up for the Guaranteed Ride Home Program through Metro Commuter Services. You will receive coupons redeemable for cab fare. Use them when the unexpected happens, like having to work late or missing your bus. You will need to pay the fare and receive a signed and dated receipt from the driver. Metro Commuter Services will reimburse you up to $25 for your cab fare. The program costs you nothing. If you would like more information or would like to sign up, contact Metro Transit at 612-373-3333 or visit http://www.metrotransit.org.

How is Metropass made possible?
In 2000, PTS received a two-year federal Congestion Mitigation Air Quality grant to fund U-Pass and Metropass. The original goal was to increase transit use at the U by at least 40% over two years, thereby reducing carbon monoxide emissions, vehicle miles traveled, and single-occupancy vehicle trips. That goal was met and the programs continue to grow. Metropass currently is supported through user fees and parking revenue.