Pierce Transit "Runner" Service Starts March 31 in Gig Harbor
Pierce Transit’s “Runner” service, which provides on-demand car rides to any location a bus route doesn’t go within a service zone, will start in Gig Harbor March 31, 2024. TCC students who sign up for the student ORCA pass will be able to use the service for free. Everyone else will be able to use the service for the same fare as a bus ride, $2 or less. In addition, Pierce Transit Runner rides are free to everyone aged 18 and younger.
For TCC students, this service will provide an important link between Pierce Transit’s Kimball Drive Park & Ride, which connects directly to the TCC Tacoma Campus, and the TCC Gig Harbor Campus, located about a mile away from the Park & Ride on the other side of the freeway. TCC Gig Harbor Campus Dean Olga Inglebritson says that because the Gig Harbor campus doesn’t have a bus stop, that mile has been a barrier for students who use public transportation.
“We’re very excited for the launch of the Runner service,” Inglebritson said. “Many of our Gig Harbor Campus students rely on public transport, and this will make it much easier for them to get to campus from the Park & Ride, and to access classes at both campuses.”
Available from 7 a.m. – 10 p.m. daily, the service allows riders to book rides and pay fares through the Pierce Transit “Transit” App. Riders can be picked up on demand, share rides, and connect to local bus routes.
FAQs
Q: How do I get a TCC Student ORCA Bus Pass?
A: Get your ORCA pass here!
Q: Is the TCC Student ORCA Bus Pass a mobile app, or a physical pass?
A: Students can choose to get either a physical pass or the mobile app. Find answers to more questions about the TCC Student ORCA Bus Pass here.
Q: Where can I get an ORCA Pass if I’m not a TCC student?
A: Here’s a map of places to buy an ORCA pass.
Q: Where do I download the “Transit” App?
A: You can download the “Transit” App from the App Store or Google Play. Learn more here.
Q: Can I call to make a Runner appointment?
A: Yes, you can schedule a pick-up by calling 253-581-8000 and pressing Option 4.
Q: If I’m using the Runner service to get from the Kimball Avenue Park & Ride to TCC Gig Harbor, how far in advance do I need to schedule to ride so I can make it to my class on time?
A: According to Pierce Transit, it should take about 10 – 15 minutes for a Runner vehicle to arrive after scheduling.
Q: I have other questions. Where I can I learn more about the Runner program?
A: Pierce Transit has information and answers to FAQs on this page.