Are gas prices so high that you’re willing to trade driving for riding public transportation? That’s what the American Public Transportation Association is urging consumers to do for its first-ever “dump the pump” day on Thursday.
“This is the first time there has been a day like this where we are encouraging people to make a statement about high gas prices and save money on their commutes,” said Virginia Miller, a spokeswoman for the transportation organization.
On average, Americans could save up to $3,000 each a year by taking public transportation to and from work, she said.
The CTA is one of at least 65 agencies nationwide who are leveraging “dump the pump” day to woo commuters to public transportation through discounts or awareness campaigns, Miller said.
“Many people are already choosing public transportation because it is fast, convenient and affordable, regardless of gas prices,” said CTA spokeswoman Robyn Ziegler. “But right now would be an excellent time for people to make a switch. With high gas prices and construction along the Dan Ryan, why not try it on this day?”
But switching to public transportation, even if just for one day, didn’t sound practical to some local drivers RedEye interviewed Wednesday.
“I wish I could do it, but taking public transportation to work would pack another hour onto my commute,” said Chase Bell, 32. Bell, who moved from Bucktown to the suburbs just over a year ago, said both she and her husband drive to work.
“Really, I’d rather just drive and pay for the gas,” Bell said.
Heather Miller, 22, either drives or takes the CTA but said she isn’t willing to make any pump-dumping promises.
“Gas is high, but I can’t avoid it some days, and I really don’t think me taking one day off would make much of a difference in the prices,” she said.
Bus and “L” rider Blair Stevenson said public transportation is more convenient for him, so he doesn’t regret getting rid of his car after a bad wreck two years ago.
“More people should go ahead and take the bus or the train if they can,” said Stevenson, 48. “That’s why there’s so much traffic now because folks won’t give up driving every single place they go. I only drive if I have to,” said Stevenson, who sometimes borrows his mother’s car for certain errands.
But Stevenson didn’t think the dump-the-pump event would shake up oil prices or inspire other people to try public transportation for their daily commute.
“Those oil companies will do whatever makes them the most money and, of course, not everybody is going to stop driving,” he said. “People enjoy driving their cars.”
Bell has found her own solution for cutting pump prices.
“Instead of giving up driving, my husband and I have decided to move back to the city,” Bell said. “At least we can cut down some of the commute.”
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kkyles@tribune.com
