Crowd-sourced bus routes to expand into U.S. university towns

OurBus, who operates crowd-sourced intercity and commuter bus routes, is expanding to more than 24 college towns across the United States, targeting students who are looking for inexpensive and convenient travel options.

Using crowd-sourcing to operate efficient bus networks challenges the traditional bus service model, which utilises a point-to-point network concept, recognising that travellers need reliable and efficient transportation that is close to home. Crowd-sourcing enables flexible and creative development of bus routes, and new routes can be suggested at any time.

To begin with, OurBus is starting service from State College, Pennsylvania to New York City, which will depart from South Fraser Street, Thursday through Monday, effective 16 August 2018. 

Promotional fares start at $25 each way with tickets available to be purchased online.  

“While serving both leisure travellers and commuters has been a priority for us over the last two years, we’re eager to expand our service to more college students, starting with State College, Pennsylvania, with additional services starting soon in Newark, Delaware, California and Florida college towns,” said Axel Hellman, co-Founder, OurBus. “Many of these college communities lack convenient and budget-friendly transportation options to major metropolitan cities and towns.”  

The company will be offering complimentary bus rides to prospective students visiting select colleges during 2018 as part of the college initiative whilst piloting additional luggage service for students going back to school, beginning with Ithaca in August.

All buses are equipped with free Wi-Fi, individual charging ports, bottled water and bathrooms. Tickets can be purchased through the OurBus app, which also offers a bus-tracking feature and transport planners with real-time travel updates.