Ferris State University is making it more convenient for students to travel between the Big Rapids campus and programs based in Grand Rapids with enhanced bus service through the Bulldog Line partnership with the Rapid.

Bulldog Line service starts again on Monday, Aug. 31, with a new schedule serving as a convenient and inexpensive way to commute between Big Rapids and Grand Rapids, with stops in Cedar Springs.

The complete schedule and details on purchasing the service are available here.

One-way trips are only $5, but students can purchase unlimited use for the semester for $480 or pay $120 for 30 consecutive days. 

The 40-foot bus is unmistakable as it rides around town or on U.S. 131, emblazoned with the proud Ferris State Bulldog. The bus has seating capacity of 40 passengers and standing room for about 20 people.

The Bulldog line originates in Grand Rapids at Central Station, 250 Cesar Chavez Ave. SW, starting at 5:15 a.m.

Northbound stops are planned near Ferris State’s Kendall College of Art and Design at the intersection of Ionia Avenue and Monroe Center St. starting at 8:07 a.m.

The bus stops at the Meijer at 3700 17 Mile Road in Cedar Springs, with the stop located in the parking lot directly south of the Meijer gas station.

The first Big Rapids stop is at Bond Court, with the bus shelter outside Puterbaugh Hall, across the street from the Michigan College of Optometry.

The Bulldog Line then heads to Granger Building with the stop at the north end of building in lot 2D. Riders can stand in the north end vestibule of the Granger Building or outside under cover. 

The southbound trip includes stops again at Meijer in Cedar Springs, KCAD at the intersection of Division Avenue and Fountain Street and then to the Rapid’s Central Station.

The Bulldog Line route follows the academic year and provides transit when classes are in session. The bus does not operate in the summer or on days when classes aren't held, such as holidays.

Anyone with questions about Bulldog Line between Grand Rapids and Big Rapids can call Campus Auxiliary Services at (231) 591-5402

To see where the Bulldog Line is at any time, check the Rapid Connect webpage or download the MyStop App. For questions on bus delays, call the Rapid at (616) 776-1100.

Through the MyStop app students can subscribe to text or email messages and alerts regarding the bus. Riders are also encouraged to sign up forFerris Emergency Text Alerts to receive updates on weather related cancellations and other special announcements.

_{Release and photo courtesy of Ferris State University.}