Students that do not bring a vehicle with them to campus can make getting off campus tough.  Thanks to a new service at Kent State – that now may be easier than before.  TV2’s Robert Carroll has the story.

[bbrvideo width=”350″ float=”left” caption=”A hot new service is available to Kent State this semester.  Zipcars – is it the next big thing?” ]BBR_02_Carroll_ZipCarService[/bbrvideo]

Transportation is a hot topic across Kent State – ranging from parking services, PARTA busing, walking, and finding ways to get off campus for awhile, if you live on campus.

That is why a new service has been implemented at Kent State this semester, thanks to a new partnership with Zipcar, Inc. – a car sharing program.

“This is a good way for students who do not bring a car to campus to get around easier,” said Melanie Knowles, Manager of Sustainability at Kent State.

  Knowles said the program has no complaints yet – all good things since beginning.

The Zipcar program brings four vehicles to campus; two Ford Focus’, one Kia Soul, and a Toyota Prius.  The program helps student affordability, could save parking spaces in the long run and is cost-effective, said Knowles.  Students get a discounted rate of $25, from the normal $35

 

There are requirements, however, to getting access to the Zipcars.  The individual must be 18-years-old or older (if associated with Kent State), or 21-years-old if a community member.  They also must have held a driver license for one year, and a driving record check is done.

The students associated with Kent State, having access to the vehicles at a discounted rate and the age of 18, can rent the Zipcars anywhere from a couple hours up to a couple days.  One of the vehicles, the Toyota Prius, is even environmentally friendly.

The Prius comes as a gas-electric vehicle.  It is the only one of four Zipcars that have this feature.  Be it students wanting a fun night out in Cleveland using the Zipcar to get there, or get away for a weekend – this new service on campus will fit their needs.

Students can register at http://www.zipcar.com/kent