Portfolio 23: Use the Wolfprowl for the Technician Newspaper

Give Wolfprowl a try
By Jake Goldbas, Staff Columnist

Print this article
Share this article
Published: Monday, November 16, 2009
Updated: Monday, November 16, 2009

© 2009 NCSU Student Media
If a program is not used, it will be lost. In other words, if you don't use it, you lose it.
Wolfprowl, the nighttime bus system, began operations last year and has been an apparent success.
Kim Paylor, the transit manager who oversees the program, said riders have increased week after week. [And] it's out there on the days Transportation thinks students are out there, 9 p.m. until 3 a.m.
One might think the Wolfprowl is only for students on campus, but Paylor pointed out that there is a reverse route that connects to Raleigh's R line -- also a free service -- and Glenwood South. Hopefully I don't have to remind you that downtown Raleigh has and will continue to have several arts and music festivals – many of them free -- that can be accessed from the services.
Drinking and partying present basic safety issues in and of themselves, but students must also take nighttime safety into account. Students who ride the buses will not be put in a situation where they would have to drink and drive and the community would realize an increase in public safety. But if one did drive to Glenwood and was unable to drive back, the Wolfprowl is a significantly cheaper and safer option than calling a $50 taxi, relying on your passed out friend, or walking 5 miles back to campus.
The bus has obvious safety credentials. It is well lit, spacious, relatively comfortable and has drivers employed by the University.
The Wolfprowl is also more compassionate than a designated driver when you go out. I often feel guilty that the designated driver has the burden for the night, or is having less of a time because we forced him or her to take the responsibility on a night that's supposed to be a fun and carefree experience. The Wolfprowl means one less hassle and one less thing to worry about for everyone and eliminates the need for a designated driver.
Frankly, the Wolfprowl means students don’t have to worry about the cop cars around campus or the chance of getting stopped on Western. It’s sensible on a level of self-preservation if nothing else.
Wolfprowl accepts students from other campuses as well. It’s a great way to show Raleigh off to our competitors at Duke and UNC-Chapel Hill. Raleigh is huge and the bars here are great, it doesn’t just have a single street like 9th Street in Durham or Franklin Street in Chapel Hill; Raleigh has Hillsborough Street, Glenwood and the cluster of other streets in downtown Raleigh.
Above all, barhopping and exploring the city is fun. Enjoy the city while you’re in college -- especially one so close. But make sure to do it a safe and comfortable way.
Comments
Be the first to comment on this article!
Log in to be able to post comments.