News & Events: Press Releases
May 29, 2007
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION HELPS DRIVE CLEAN AIR MONTH
Bay Town Trolley Does Its Share for Cleaner Air
Media Contact: Allison Fogt
850-878-5531 x223
afogt@kidd.com
(Panama City, Fla.) - May marked the beginning of "Clean Air" month for Floridians. In efforts to improve and protect the quality of air we breathe, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recommends public transportation as a vital solution. Bay Town Trolley and its riders have stepped up to the plate for "Clean Air" month as ridership reaches 33,191 for the month of April and May ridership is expected to steadily increase.
Public transportation provides a direct beneficial impact on the environment. Getting cars off the roads not only reduces the emission of harmful hydrocarbons and oxides, but diminishes our country's reliance on foreign oil. On average, one person taking public transit to work instead of driving eliminates over 3,000 pounds of exhaust and pollutants every year.
"Recognizing May as Clean Air Month encourages Floridian's to make a commitment to helping ensure that Florida continues to meet and exceed air quality standards," said Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Michael W. Sole. "By reducing emissions and investing in clean energy technology we will ensure a stronger, healthier environment and economy for future generations."
With a 37 percent increase in April ridership as compared to last year, Bay County's efforts to protect community health and the environment are filtering through the area at exciting rates. According to DEP, Florida is one of only three states east of the Mississippi River that currently meets all National Ambient Air Quality Standards.
DEP has developed nine other environmental friendly practices that Floridians can easily adopt to do their share in keeping Florida's air clean. Besides utilizing public transportation and carpooling, DEP also encourages consumers to:
- Use energy efficient products
- Maintain vehicles
- Shop by phone, mail or internet
- Reduce, reuse and recycle
- Communicate via teleconference
- Plant native trees and shrubs
- Keep neighborhoods smoke free
- Conserve electricity at home and work
- Maintain heating and air conditioning units
"Our riders have generated a tangible example for each other and transit communities growing elsewhere," said Doug Boice, General Manager of Bay Town Trolley. "Bay Town Trolley continues as a key contributor to cleaner air."
Bay Town Trolley is an award-winning transit system that serves Bay County, Monday through Friday, with hundreds of stops daily. For more information about Trolley routes call (850) 769-0557 or visit www.baytowntrolley.org. All Bay Town Trolleys are equipped with bicycle racks and wheelchair lifts.
For more information on Florida's clean air practices, visit http://www.dep.state.fl.us/air.
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