As gas prices continue to climb, residents of Fresno are increasingly considering public transportation and biking as viable alternatives to driving. Day Smith, a local resident, has already made the switch after facing unaffordable car repair costs. She now relies on the FAX Route 1 bus, despite missing the comfort of air conditioning during hot days.

Manuel Fernandez, another Fresno commuter, has also reduced his car usage, opting for public transport for shorter trips. This shift in commuting habits is part of a broader trend across the country, where rising fuel costs, exacerbated by the ongoing conflict with Iran, are prompting many to reconsider their transportation choices.

Fresno’s transportation department, FAX, reported a 4.17% increase in ridership in March compared to the previous year, marking the highest number of riders in a decade. However, April saw a slight decrease, suggesting that the impact of gas prices on public transport usage may be temporary.

Biking Trends in Fresno

Local bike shops have noticed a steady interest in e-bikes, though not a significant surge attributed directly to gas prices. John Pulido of Fresno Schwinn and Joseph Mauzy from The Bike Shop @ Woodward both observed that while e-bikes remain popular, the current economic climate hasn’t led to a dramatic increase in sales.

Despite Fresno’s car-dependent reputation, there is ongoing advocacy for improved biking infrastructure. The city has made strides in enhancing rider safety, though more work remains to be done.

Smith, reflecting on her experience, acknowledges the challenges of relying on public transport, such as the need for early planning. However, she emphasizes that her bus rides have been positive, countering any negative stereotypes associated with public transit.

Original reporting: Fresnoland — read the source article.