By Mia McCauley, Student Intern
On August 29, 2025, the Disability Cultural Center (DCC) within McBurney Disability Resource Center, hosted Badgers on the Bus, an event designed to help students become independent commuters on campus public transportation.
In collaboration with the city of Madison Metro Transit, students were guided through five locations on campus, each featuring different stickers, prizes, and welcoming staff.
Attendees had the chance to learn more about disability-related services provided by Madison Metro, such as the new wheelchair securement system on articulated buses.
Students can access their Associated Students of Madison (ASM) bus pass by bringing their Wiscard (or other photo ID) to one of the Transportation Services locations.
ASM bus passes are valid on Madison Metro Transit buses for students who are enrolled and registered for classes for academic credit at UW–Madison, and who have paid the segregated transportation fee (which is part of tuition).
Additionally, students should note that campus routes 80, 81, 82, and 84 are all no-fare buses and do not require a pass to ride.
Madison Metro Transit Marketing Manager A.J. Liedl explained that public transportation not only reduces the number of vehicles on campus and city roads but also makes commuting easier and more sustainable for students.
“Naturally, there are a lot of people frequenting campus,” said Liedl. “Students need to get from point A to point B, and the bus is a reliable source to help them move around campus. Not only that, but students are also encouraged to use their bus pass throughout the surrounding area. They can explore other regions of Monona, Downtown Madison, Sun Prairie, and Middleton.”
The DCC aims to give students the skills they need to approach this new semester with confidence and ease. Program Coordinator Helen Rottier explained that many students expressed feeling unsure when it came to taking the bus. “As a born and raised Madisonian, a non-driver, and a big fan of new and enhanced services from Madison Metro, including Bus Rapid Transit, I wanted to share my love and knowledge of the bus with students,” said Rottier.
Through Badgers on the Bus, students received resources, hands-on experience, and a sense of comfort when it comes to navigating public transportation on campus. As Madison continues to invest in inclusive transit, these improvements emphasize that public transportation is key to building connected and accessible communities.
“This new Wisconsin Welcome event helps students become empowered commuters on campus and around Madison,” said Rottier. The response from our event partners, especially Madison Metro, and from students and staff across campus, has been absolutely wonderful.”
