Mason Launches Gunston Shuttle Service

By Broadside Assistant News Editor Kevin Loker

George Mason University students can ride for free on Student Government’s, Gunston’s Go-Bus, the new shuttle service to local shopping centers and malls.

“I'm really excited that it will make getting to Fair Oaks Mall really easy,” said freshman Spanish major Megan Wine. “Shopping there is better than areas you can get to with the CUE Bus, and it makes getting there easier and less expensive than Metro Bus, let alone a car.”

Students are not the only ones to see potential in cutting expenditures, especially when it comes to driving. According to Student Government Vice-President Claire Forman, various university administrators have viewed the Go-Bus as a way to help students deal with any economic difficulties because “it limits students’ need to fill up their car with gas,” or “to even have a car at all.”

“Everyone involved was highly supportive of the initiative. It will save students money on gas, help with weekend life and give students an alternative method of transportation so that fewer residential students may find it necessary to have a car,” said Forman. “The service may give some students more employment opportunities for off-campus jobs if for whatever reason they do not have a car.”

“This [Go-Bus] will make it easier to get certain items for cheaper prices than some of the options within walking distance,” said sophomore global affairs and Spanish major Gleason Rowe. “Options are currently limited for students. Wal-Mart, Target and Best Buy will all be easily accessible now.”

The Fair Lakes Shopping Center alone will give students access to a Target, Wal-Mart and BJ’s—three locations that traditionally offer consumers low priced items.

Two Chipotle locations can also be reached along the route, one in Fairfax Corner and one at the Fair Lakes Shopping Center.

“Students are always talking about getting better access to that particular dining option,” said Forman.

“Chipotle?” said Wine, “For sure I would go. With the bus, it may be a bit easier, a bit cheaper and a bit more worth it.”

Service will begin Thursday, Feb. 5 at 3 p.m. Routes include stops at University Mall, Old Towne Fairfax, Fairfax Corner, Fair Oaks Mall and the Fair Lakes Shopping Center.