RTC updated site — Check it before heading to the bus stop or gas pump
The Regional Transportation Commission -- the folks that run the bus system in the Las Vegas area -- have put some new online tools into the hands of folks looking to hop a bus or calculate the real cost of their next fill-up.
Head to rtcsnv.com/ to get started with the Gas Calculator, Trip Planner or to sneak a peek at any of the 46 traffic camera-equipped intersections. There are also videos about the free McCarran International Airport Park & Ride, Club Ride and what's on the transit horizon.
I tested the Trip Planner and was presented three options -- all of which I use on my 4.7 mile drive to work. While I'm behind the wheel, the commute usually takes between 12 and 15 minutes, depending on lights and traffic volume. The three bus ride options took anywhere from 43 to 50 minutes, and each had me walking between .77 miles and 1.43 miles. These walks were calculated into the commute times, and I wouldn't ordinarily object to them, but when the mercury is pushing 108-degrees, I'd probably opt for the air conditioning of my gas-guzzling truck.
The Trip Planner database and results appear to be very thorough, as the mapping system, time and date options and step-by-step instructions (walk, ride, walk, ride) were simple and something I'd likely print out if I chose a destination I normally don't travel.
The Gas Calculator is another simple, yet eye-opening, feature that shows you how many hours you need to work to fill your gas tank. Simply plug in your wage (hourly or annual), the size of your vehicle's gas tank, and the price per gallon and you'll get the number of hours it takes to top your tank. I wouldn't call it a "fun" exercise, but it does have me thinking about getting a more fuel efficient ride.
Who knows? Maybe I'll ride the bus?
