By Toma Smith
While gas prices may be lower, it doesn’t hurt to be frugal when buying it. Consuming gas wisely not only helps a person economically, it helps the air around them. To stop polluting the air, one must “adopt driving practices that save gas and improve mileage,” said the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
The American Automobile Association (AAA) stated, “A smooth-running engine can save up to $1080 a year, based on 15,000 miles of driving with gas costing $2.70 a gallon.” An additional $180 can be saved by keeping your air filter clean, according to AAA.
Finally, slow down! However difficult, Arthur Frommer’s magazine “Smart Shopping for Everything You Need in Life,” 2006 spring issue states, “For every five miles per hour you go over 60, you’ll be paying about 20 cents more per gallon.”
TARC
Another alternative is to not drive. University of Louisville students can ride the buses of the Transit Authority of the River City (TARC) for free by showing their student identification card. TARC is already used by many commuters who park at the Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium, but can be used directly from where you live, whether in Louisville or Southern Indiana.
Bus schedules are available at the Student Activity Center, Ekstrom Library and via the Web site http:// www.ridetarc.org or by phone at 502-585-1234.
BIKES
Instead of four wheels, use two. Riding a bike allows quicker access around campus and provides exercise. Many TARC buses are equipped with bike racks, which could cut down on travel time. The Belknap Campus has bike racks located throughout, with several near Ekstrom Library, between Strickler and Davidson halls and near the Student Activities Center.
LIVING LOCATION
Living on or near campus is a great way to save gas. Stevenson hall, where the Students’ Housing Department is located, has information about cost and guidelines. Call 502-852-6636 for hours, which vary throughout the year.
Eastern Parkway and Old Louisville are also convenient areas providing easy walking distances and shorter time to get to class.
WEB SITES
Whatever option is used, for some, there will always be the need to drive and gas prices can be checked before you head out the door.
Louisvillegasprices.com gives consumer information regarding gas prices in the area. It allows Web site visitors to post and view recent retail gasoline prices.
GasBuddy.com, founded by Dustin Coupal and Jason Toews, “[Is] designed to serve the public with everything needed to easily and freely share gas-pricing information.”
Using the suggestions above and lower prices at the pump could help financially, but there are still factors that could affect gas prices.
