New program helps college students save money on their commute

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- Fresno City College students now have a new way to get to school, the Bolt to College Program. The new initiative will use an all-electric ride-sharing service to transport students from Kerman and the surrounding areas to campus.

The program will use Chevrolet Bolt EV's to pick up and drop off students from their homes for a monthly fee of $10 dollars, making it a good deal for Leonel Zamora who drives about 45 minutes each day to get to school, Zamora says the money spent on gas adds up.

"Right now I don't have a job, so I don't have enough money to be wasting on fuel, so the rideshare program would be beneficial to me," Leonel Zamora from San Joaquin said.

Fresno City College estimates students who commute from the Kerman area spend up to $3,000 a year on gas. Student Cesar Garcia says the money saved by using the new service could be very beneficial.

However, that program is doing more than just keeping cash in students pockets.

"We are trying to use energy efficient new technology to reduce the carbon footprint and also to reduce the load on our parking," Fresno City College, President Dr. Carole Goldsmith said.

The pilot program is set to launch next semester and students will be able to sign-up later this spring. It will run for two semesters but could be extended depending on ridership.