ACC’s popular Green Pass program – which provides free Capital Metro passes to credit students, faculty, and staff – is back for the fall 2010 semester. The college introduced the initiative, designed to help ACC reduce its impact on the environment, in January 2010. Through June, students and employees used their Green Passes to take almost 343,000 rides on Capital Metro buses.
Pre-med major Alyssa Phillips is one of those riders.
“The bus is one of my main forms of transportation, so I was very excited when ACC introduced the program,” says Phillips. “I’d recommend Green Pass to anyone – even if you have a car. When I drive, I have to deal with finding a parking spot. It’s much easier to ride the bus.”
Fall green passes may be picked up beginning August 9 at any campus cashier’s office. You may begin using bus and rail service at no cost that day; the passes are valid until January 17, 2011. In an agreement with Capital Metro, ACC is charged a discounted rate per ride.
“This is a very easy way for people to support ACC’s commitment to sustainability,” says Andy Kim, the college’s director of environmental stewardship. “Green Pass will also help students get to class, ease parking congestion, and provide important ridership data. It really is a win-win for ACC and our students, faculty, and staff. We’ve had a lot of positive feedback since beginning this program.”
In order for students to receive a Green Pass, they must be registered for fall 2010 and have paid full tuition or set up a payment plan.
Click here for more details about Green Pass and Frequently Asked Questions. You can find additional information on ACC’s commitment to environmental stewardship at austincc.edu/sustainability.
Back to Top
By Jeanie August 10, 2010 - 12:09 pm
Thank you ACC for providing Capital Metro passes to us students. It is easier on the enviroment & easier on my budget. Thank you again!
By Sharee August 12, 2010 - 4:47 pm
I enjoy riding the buses and knowing I am making a difference in our environment.
By Mary Dunn August 13, 2010 - 12:27 pm
As an hourly employee I would like to take advantage of the green pass. I have just as much sustainability as the rest of the staff! Please consider providing green passes to hourly employees. I would even consider paying a small amount for it.
Thank you1
By Brenda August 16, 2010 - 9:10 am
“How is the Green Pass pilot program funded?
The cost of the program is funded through revenue from the parking fee increase that went into effect in fall 2009 and the college’s sustainability fee.”
Hourly employees must purchase a parking pass, which contributes to the funding of the program. This should make hourly employees eligible for the Green Pass. Please consider this fact.
By Christine August 16, 2010 - 9:20 pm
Love using my pass for MetroRail!
I’d gladly pay something for this privilege if it would allow the program to be expanded to include (Mary, above, and other) hourly employees.
Thanks!
By Brian August 17, 2010 - 12:41 pm
I too am an hourly employee and frequent bus rider who feels left out. The Green Pass is a great program, but is missing its goal by excluding many employees. I hope this will change soon!
By Louie August 18, 2010 - 12:29 am
Just moved to Austin and absolutely love this concept. More cities, such as Houston, should also have this. Its much easier on students and the environment. It is win-win situation.
By Kim August 26, 2010 - 11:50 am
We pay elevated parking and do not get the right to ride for free as FACULTY? Why do I feel discriminated against? I think everyone that PAYS $40/year for parking should have this option. Please include us!!!!!!!!!!
By apatter1 August 26, 2010 - 1:53 pm
Hi Kim,
ACC faculty and staff are eligible for Green Pass. You may pick your pass up at a campus cashier’s office. For more information and to see frequently asked questions, visit austincc.edu/sustainability/greenpass.