By: Gagandeep Sidhu

Fort Collins, Colo.- When I first came out to Fort Collins to attend Colorado State University, I had anticipated the need for a car. Most cities in the US are heavily car-dependent, and that had been my expectation when moving to Fort Collins. But after spending a couple of weeks here, I am shocked at how little I’ve used my car.

From the encouragement of public transportation to the abundance of bike lanes, there really isn’t a need for a car in Fort Collins. 

Lately, instead of driving to go out, I have been using the Transfort busses. These buses are a fantastic way to get around without the hassle of driving and parking yourself. The Transfort buses also have an app that makes it easier and more convenient to track what stops you need and when buses will arrive. It is a great alternative to driving.

CSU Transit center in Fort Collins, Colorado. Photo By: Colorado State University , 2020

Another way to get around is by taking advantage of all the bike lanes. Fort Collins has a great biking infrastructure. With “…more than 200 miles of dedicated bike lanes and 50 miles of marked or signed bike routes,” Fort Collins clearly prioritizes people’s ability to ride their bikes around town. 

Map of bike lanes and bike paths in Fort Collins, Colorado. Photo by: City of Fort Collins, 2019

Fort Collins has proven to me that there is no need to deal with the stress that comes along with driving. It is much easier and more efficient to take advantage of public transportation and bike lanes.