Many international students used Lyft as a main source of transportation. With the cuts being made to the Lyft program, many students may have to find a different way to get around Topeka. Photo courtesy of Washburn International Club Instagram.
The Washburn Student Government Association is making changes to the Lyft program and it may have a big impact on international students.
Most international students at Washburn University don’t have access to a car. Many students are within walking distance of campus and only use Lyft or the bus system when the weather is bad or to run errands. Some international students will get a ride from their friends or use a bicycle. The Topeka Metro bus is free for Washburn students but it stops often, doesn’t run in the evening and takes a long time to get to places.
“I live in College Hill,” said Smera Shrestha, junior computer science and data analytics major. “I just walk to campus. If it’s bad weather then I use Lyft.”
Puja Shrestha, freshman finance major, said she uses the bus for errands and Lyft for groceries. As of right now, the Lyft program pays for four passes of up to $8 per pass a month. After the WSGA meeting Nov. 20, the Lyft program may be changing due to funding.
“Right now, Lyft is budgeted to $50,000,” said Jullian Hastings, WSGA senator. “Already we are seeing it cost $5,300 a month, meaning that it’s going to go over budget.”
Hastings explained that starting Jan. 21, Lyft passes will be available for usage between Friday at 6 p.m. to Monday at 9 a.m. The passes will also be decreased to a $6 trip instead of $8.
“WSGA, quite frankly, does not have the resources to do anything like extend Lyft through the nights when the bus isn’t running,” Hastings said. “So, unfortunately, we had to make the really tough decision to go with what benefits the most students.”
WSGA’s original purpose for the Lyft program was to lessen the occurrences of drunk driving. The time restrictions placed on the Lyft passes will help to cut down on the cost while also ensuring students still have a safe avenue to return home. Although the decision appeared to be unfavored by many senators, Hastings reminded the senate that the Lyft program’s purpose is to provide safe rides for students and the Topeka Metro is still a free and open option for students to take advantage of.
The Lyft program is changing and international students that rely on it will be affected. Keep an eye out for more details from WSGA.
Edited by Stuti Khadka and Alijah McCracken