A PASSENGER SITS on the T. Ridership for the Lawrence Transit System grew to a record 327,780 in 2004.

More passengers jumped aboard the Lawrence Transit System in 2004.

Ridership last year grew to a record 327,780, up 22 percent from 2003 numbers. Before 2004, transit officials had projected a 15 percent increase.

A strong marketing plan contributed to the increase, said Wendy Koerner, public transit clerk.

“We see a steady increase of riders with the system and we are very pleased with it,” she said.

Lawrence resident Kathryn Stinson said she rode the bus because it was convenient.

“I don’t have a car, so having public transportation is really nice to have around here,” Stinson said.

Last summer, reduced fares for kindergarten through 12th grade students and Haskell students were implemented.

In 2003, through Kansas University’s KU on Wheels, the system also made the “T sticker”, which allowed students unlimited rides for $25.

“Those changes have gotten the T some attention and it has brought in some revenue too,” Koerner said.

She said the transit system was starting a “Travel Training” program that would teach people more about riding public transportation.

“We are going to show them how to navigate the routes, buy passes, transfer buses and how to complete a trip,” Koerner said.

The system includes eight routes that stretch from Wakarusa Drive to the I-70 Business Center in North Lawrence.

Koerner said new expanded routes were not in the works.

“There are no plans for new routes at this time, but that is a topic being looked at by the Transit Advisory Board,” she said.

Koerner is filling in for Karin Rexroad, the former public transit administrator. Rexroad’s last day was Feb. 24.

“We miss Karin very much,” Koerner said. “But we will hopefully fill the position as soon as possible.”

Drivers also contribute to the system’s success.

Mike Sweeten, general manager of the T, said they hire 21-year-olds or older with clean driving records.

“An essential thing we look for in drivers is someone with good customer service skills,” Sweeten said.

Koerner said that they projected an 18 percent growth within the next year.

“Hopefully we will meet that number and we will continue to grow,” she said.