BAY MINETTE — As gas prices continue to rise, the Baldwin Rural Area Transportation System (BRATS) reports a 12 percent increase in ridership over the last month for the Baylinc route, which provides regional transportation between Baldwin and Mobile counties.

Baylinc began operation in November 2007 and by December had recorded 394 passenger trips. The Baylinc route continues to see a steady increase each month and in April reported a total of 873 passenger trips.

“This is one of the most exciting and successful attempts to offer public transportation and it be utilized by both counties,” said Frank Burt Jr., Baldwin County Commission Chairman.

Baylinc not only helps the workforce get to available jobs on both sides of Mobile Bay, but the route can be used to travel to and from shopping, medical appointments and any other needs the residents from both counties may have.

“Having Baylinc changes my life in so many good ways. I not only save money on gas and wear and tear on my car, but riding the bus gives me added time in my morning to just prepare for my day or just relax and enjoy the scenery,” said Paula Dicks. Dicks, a Wave Transit employee, rides Baylinc every morning from her home in Fairhope to the GM&O building in Mobile. She returns in the afternoon on the same route.

“We are so excited to see Baylinc ridership steadily increase, it just proves how cost efficient and convenient public transportation is to our residents,” said Taylor Rider, BRATS director.

BRATS provides two morning and evening Baylinc routes along the Eastern Shore ranging in cost from $1.50 to $3 depending on rider distances. BRATS and the Mobile County Wave Transit System connect at Bienville Square in Mobile where residents can select their Mobile destination for a fare of only $1.25 or return to one of the locations along the Eastern Shore. Parking at the various Eastern Shore stops is free, and Baylinc does offer Rider Discount Cards. All buses are handicap accessible.

Baylinc schedules are available at www.co.baldwin.al.us, or by calling BRATS at 990-4636.