Norfolk, Va.— Norfolk State University has signed a letter of agreement with Hampton Roads Transit to provide more ready access on all HRT modes of transportation. NSU will pay an agreed upon lump sum amount to HRT to cover the cost of the program, which will provide free fare to all NSU full-time students and employees.

“Building strong community partnerships is one of our institutional priorities,” said NSU President Tony Atwater. “Partnering with Hampton Roads Transit will provide greater mobility for NSU students and employees throughout the Hampton Roads region; help reduce parking demands and traffic congestion; and create greater community access to NSU’s campus while also reducing carbon footprints on the environment.”

NSU students and employees will have access to the following modes of HRT transportation:

• Fixed routes on regular buses
• the water ferry between Norfolk and Portsmouth
• the MAX, a regional bus equipped with Wi-Fi and other amenities,
• and The Tide, the new light rail.

Although process details are being solidified, it is envisioned that students and faculty will show a valid NSU ID upon entrance on any of the above mentioned HRT modes of transportation. The current agreement will start in August 2011 and continue through June 30, 2012. The program will then be evaluated to determine its success and continuation.