Raleigh, N.C. (March 13, 2016) – For rail passengers traveling on Amtrak’s Piedmont and Carolinian trains, reaching their final destinations in the Triangle area is about to become a lot simpler and more cost-effective.
Beginning March 18, GoRaleigh, GoTriangle, GoDurham and GoCary will join with the N.C. Department of Transportation Rail Division and seven other state transit systems to launch the Last Mile program, a transit pass that allows passengers to easily transfer to local public transportation after disembarking from the train.
“This new transfer pass will help our NC By Train riders complete their journey using the existing and available transit options offered by our local partners,” said Paul Worley, director of NCDOT’s Rail Division. “This new program will provide our customers with a seamless option from boarding the train to their next stop.”
The transit pass will be available for free to passengers on Piedmont and Carolinian trains in select cities. While on board, passengers should request a transit pass from train conductors and present it when boarding a GoRaleigh, GoTriangle, GoDurham and GoCary bus. The pass is valid for one ride and one transfer only on the day of travel.
“The transit pass will help connect travelers safely and efficiently to their next destination,” said Debbie Collins, director of NCDOT’s Public Transportation Division. “This option also offers a cost-effective, environmentally-friendly transportation alternative that reduces congestion on roadways.”
“This easy transfer opportunity will be a great asset to rail patrons and GoRaleigh is excited to have the opportunity to provide this important mobility link,” said GoRaleigh’s Transit Administrator David Eatman.
“The Last Mile transit pass showcases our mission to connect people and places with reliable, safe, and easy-to-use travel choices that improve our region’s quality of life,” said GoTriangle General Manager Jeff Mann. “This partnership will make it easier and more cost effective for rail passengers to complete their journey through public transportation.”
“This is an exciting opportunity for passengers arriving at Durham’s Amtrak station,” said Tonya Dupree, acting General Manager of GoDurham. “The city’s transportation center is just across the street, providing excellent access to our service and all that Durham has to offer.”
Ray Boylston, Transit Services Administrator for GoCary stated, " This is a great opportunity to educate rail passengers about GoCary and other existing bus networks that can help them reach their final destination. It’s a great example of how all transit systems work together to enhance mobility options and service for all NC citizens."
In addition to being able to use the pass on GoTriangle, GoRaleigh, GoDurham and GoCary, passengers can also use it when traveling with these transit partners:
- Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation
- Greensboro Transit Authority and Higher Education Area Transit
- High Point Transit System
- Rowan Transit System
- Salisbury Transit System
- Concord Kannapolis Area Transit
- Charlotte Area Transit System
Sponsored by NCDOT and operated by Amtrak, the NC By Train Piedmont and Carolinian trains provide daily service from Raleigh to Charlotte, plus seven additional stops in between. To explore your travel options, click here.