I just moved here and I am perplexed by the lack of ways to be able to commute or travel in and out of Bowling Green. I don't see a train stop, or a Greyhound or any other bus service. So other than buying a car or getting a ride from a friend to Toledo or Detroit, one is pretty much without any options. Are there any available options ? Will there be any ?
Transportation out or into BG
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Gus -
You're right. The city/county/region has not attracted this kind of service in the commercial marketplace, and has not pursued grants or funding to start something like this.
Some suggestions if you want to take a few minutes of your time to get this moving:
1) Contact ZipCar with a persuasive letter that they should consider Bowling Green.
2) Contact BGSU and University of Toledo to persuade them that they should partner with ZipCar (which rents cars for daily/hourly use) and partner with ZimRide (which is a carpooling startup, also check out their site!) Also contact Student Government; they have more power at the bargaining table.
3) Contact city, county, and state government officials by email and explain your situation. Consider writing a letter to the editor, to a newspaper, or TV reporter.
4) Consider using ZimRide, BGViews, or Facebook to get rides when you need one. There are a few organizations on campus with some great people who might be willing to help you out; or if you get active in a sport, or in a local church, you'll meet people and make friends.
5) Taxi service to Toledo is about $35, and car service to Detroit is about $75 - if you really get stuck needing a ride.
As far as creating new options, it won't happen unless you help make it happen -- Bowling Green has a progressive university, but the city itself is generally pleased with staying just how it is.
Good luck!