Operation Don’t Go Broke is devoted to bringing readers helpful tips on ways to save in college.
If you cannot afford to get to school, how can you succeed? Don’t let transportation issues stop you from getting to class. Discover ways to commute to campus without going broke.
Anna Quesenberry
The Broadside

Ride your bicycle

• Shop used bike shops, Craigslist and garage sales for your cycling needs.
• Explore trails and bike routes that will get you around town faster than by automobile.
• Wear a helmet and follow the rules of the road to avoid expensive fines or doctor bills.

Take the bus

• Discount passes are available from the Associated Students of Central Oregon Community College.  Purchase your Zone 1 pass (Bend only) for $10, Zone 2 or 3 (single city use-other than Bend) for $15 or a Multi-zone Pass (travel between cities) for $60. Next month’s passes are available one week prior to the first of each month. For more information, call (541) 383-7590.
• The COCC shuttle operates daily.
• To access bus stops and schedule visit http://www.cascadeseasttransit.com/where-are-you-going.html.

On foot

• Walking is excellent for your health and budget because it’s free exercise.
• Invest in comfortable footwear and clothing.
• Find safe walking trails and use the crosswalk.
• Carry a flashlight in the evening and wear bright colors.

By car

•  To achieve optimal gas mileage, set your cruise control and keep up on basic maintenance.
• Routinely check your vehicle’s oil, tire pressure and air filter.
• If your check engine light turns on, have it inspected immediately. Catching a minor sensor failure early on can save you hundreds in repair costs and most shops offer free inspections.
• Commute
• Commuting is a smart option for students. Many are traveling to and from school via the same route and schedule each day. If more one-passenger vehicles became three or four-passenger commuters, imagine how many parking spaces would be freed up.

Central Oregon Gas Guide

Bend
Midtown Fred Meyer $3.54
Northside Space Age $3.49
Southside Arco AMPM $3.49
Redmond
Town Pump $3.51
Madras
Safeway $3.69
Sisters
Shell $3.55
LaPine
Gordy’s $3.73
First year COCC nursing student, Anna Quesenberry is a wife and mother of two who is passionate about saving money.
(Contact: [email protected])
Next on ODGB: bringing balance to your family budget.