Transportation

A Toyota Prius was purchased by the University for use in the University Motor Pool. The Prius is rated at 60 miles per gallon in the city and 51 miles per gallon on the highway. The Prius is designed for city driving, as the electric motor runs when the vehicle is stopped or cruising, resulting in increased gas mileage and reduced emissions.

The Motor Pool was implemented in 2002 to reduce excessive departmental vehicle purchase. From 1991 to 2001, the University added 8 incremental vehicles per year. In 2002, the University fleet consisted of 305 vehicles. Today, due largely to the creation of the Motor Pool, there are 295 vehicles in the fleet. The Motor Pool offers a variety of vehicles available for rent to Notre Dame departments, employees, and students for the purpose of carrying out University business. When vehicle needs are sporadic, use of the Motor Pool is a convenient alternative to purchasing a vehicle or entering a long-term lease. The success of the Motor Pool is evident in its use. For instance, in 2006, the Motor Pool experienced 1,160 vehicle rentals.

The University and TRANSPO have partnered to provide fare-free transportation to Notre Dame and Saint Mary’s students, faculty and staff on all TRANSPO routes throughout the South Bend/Mishawaka system. A valid University ID is required. Maps and schedules are available at www.sbtranspo.com – click on the routes and schedules icon. In 2006, Notre Dame faculty, staff, and students took 96,000 one-way trips on Transpo system-wide while Saint Mary’s students took 35,700 one-way trips.