Downtown Baltimore Transportation Update:

This summer, budget constraints and low ridership made it necessary for UMBC and UMB to suspend Downtown Line shuttle service linking the campuses. During the months of July and August, the campus piloted an interim MTA bus pass program. The MTA Bus Route #35, which makes 40 stops daily on both campuses, was found to offer consistent and timely service and was successfully used by students taking summer courses or doing research internships. As a result of our students’ success using this alternative, the limited number of riders who utilize the service, and continuing budget concerns, UMBC and UMB will continue to rely on this method of travel for students and interns in inter-campus academic programs. 

To obtain a reduced-rate student bus pass, please visit Off-Campus Student Services (OCSS) at The Commons, Suite 309. Students must present their university ID and current class schedule to obtain their passes. See the specific distribution dates below. For more information, please contact OCSS at 410-455-2770 or visit them on the Web at umbc.edu/ocss.

    MTA Student Discount                     OCSS distributes passes
  Bus Pass Program _                                (from-to)_______

September                                August 26 - September 4

October                                    September 25 - October 6

November                                October 27 - November 5

December                                 November 24 - December 4

MTA Bus Pass Financial Assistance Program
During the fall semester’s transition period, students who are enrolled in inter-campus programs where travel between campuses is required, and who need financial assistance to obtain an MTA bus pass for that purpose, may file an application through their academic department.   The Commons Administration is responsible for the administration of the MTA Bus Pass Financial Assistance Program.

Inquiries and completed applications should be directed to Ms. Patti Schuyler at 410-455-3455, paschuyl@umbc.edu , The Commons Suite 335. The applicable department chair’s signature is required on the application form which is available at http://umbc.edu/transit/MTAbuspassapp.html   

The OCSS distribution timeline applies to underwritten passes also and are obtained by the student, in person, from Ms. Patti Schuyler during business hours on those dates at Suite 335 of The Commons upon submission of a completed and approved application form.

For more information about local MTA service and to view MTA’s Bus Route #35 schedule, visit http://www.mtamaryland.com .