Northstar Bus, Train Ridership Soars

ST. CLOUD - High gas prices continue to drive more people to the Northstar Commuter Rail and Bus Link.

The bus that connects St. Cloud area residents with the train in Big Lake saw a record number of riders in May -- up 106% over last May.   About 3,500 people used the bus last month, compared to about 1,700 in May of last year.

Metro Transit, the operator of the Northstar Line, has indicated ridership is growing on the train, too. Ridership in 2011 is up roughly 6.25 percent through April, compared to last year.

Information on schedules and fares, which range from $1 to $5 one way, can be found at www.CatchTheLink.com or by calling 877.LINK.010.