Tulane University offers a comprehensive transportation system, Tulane Transportation, designed to ensure safe, efficient, and convenient travel for students, faculty, and staff. Whether you’re commuting between campuses, exploring New Orleans, or heading to off-campus housing, Tulane provides a range of options to meet your needs.
Tulane Shuttles: Campus and Commuter Connections
The Tulane Shuttles system is a cornerstone of Tulane transportation, providing over 260,000 rides annually. These shuttles are vital for connecting Tulane and Loyola University communities, facilitating travel between the uptown, health sciences, Elmwood, and University Square campuses. They also serve key locations like the Papillon Apartments and various entertainment and shopping destinations throughout the New Orleans metropolitan area. This extensive network ensures easy access for employees and students alike.
Image: A Tulane Shuttle Bus stands ready to transport students and faculty in front of a campus building, highlighting the accessible Tulane transportation options.
For flexible, point-to-point travel, the Gold Zone service offers an on-demand van service available seven nights a week. This service adds another layer of convenience to Tulane transportation, especially for evening and weekend commutes.
Tulane University also understands the importance of community engagement. Through collaborations with the Center for Public Service, Tulane Transportation supports students, faculty, and staff involved in service learning projects across the city by providing efficient transportation solutions.
Beyond university-operated services, Tulane transportation extends to partnerships with numerous transportation providers in New Orleans. These partnerships encompass chartered school buses and motorcoaches, hired car and taxi services, airport shuttles, rental cars, and car sharing programs. This broad network ensures that all members of the Tulane community have access to diverse transportation options.
By integrating Tulane Shuttles and Transportation with these external partners and the Regional Transit Authority (RTA), Tulane offers a year-round, integrated transportation ecosystem.
For service learning and group transportation requests, the Tulane Transportation Request System (TTRS) simplifies the process. Requests can be conveniently submitted through the Tulane Transportation Request System (TTRS).
Real-Time Shuttle Tracking
Never miss your shuttle again! Tulane Transportation provides a real-time GPS tracking system to locate your Tulane Shuttle bus. Access the live tracking via the GPS tracking system.
For on-the-go access, download the free SmartTraxx app from your smartphone’s app store and stay updated on shuttle locations and schedules.
Bicycling at Tulane and in New Orleans: Eco-Friendly and Accessible
Bicycling is a popular and healthy mode of Tulane transportation and a great way to experience New Orleans. The city is increasingly bike-friendly, and resources like Bike Easy provide valuable maps of New Orleans bike lanes and routes. Bike Easy also hosts community events, including group rides, advocacy initiatives, and bike maintenance workshops, fostering a vibrant cycling culture.
Bike DIY: Maintenance and Repair Resources
Tulane transportation supports cyclists with resources like the Tulane Bike Help Desk. This service provides access to bike tools and guidance on performing your own bike repairs. Learn essential skills like fixing flat tires and broken chains, saving time and money while promoting bike maintenance knowledge within the Tulane community.
Bike Purchase and Gear
For bike purchases, repairs beyond DIY, and accessories, numerous bicycle shops are located near Tulane. Explore local options such as GNO Cyclery, The Bike Shop, and Massey’s. Online retailers like Amazon and platforms like Craigslist can also offer deals on accessories like lights, baskets, helmets, and used bicycles, expanding your options for affordable cycling gear.
Bicycle Safety: Tips and Resources
Safety is paramount for Tulane transportation, especially for cyclists. Tulane’s Bicycle Security and Safety tips provide essential guidance for safe riding and bike security. Follow their “how to ride in traffic” recommendations: be predictable, be alert, and be properly equipped. Bike Easy’s map and safety guide also offer valuable safety advice for both cyclists and drivers, contributing to a safer cycling environment in New Orleans. Consult Tulane’s Bicycle Security and Safety tips and Bike Easy’s map and safety guide for detailed information.
New Orleans Public Transportation: Exploring the City with RTA
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) offers an extensive network of buses and streetcars throughout New Orleans, providing another key component of Tulane transportation. With a basic fare of just $1.25, the RTA is an affordable way to navigate the city. Payment can be made with cash or pre-purchased passes upon boarding. Explore routes, schedules, and plan your trips on the RTA website.
Driving and Parking at Tulane: Information for Students and Commuters
Driving in New Orleans is convenient, and Tulane transportation addresses driving and parking considerations for the community. International visitors can use their valid international driver’s license for occasional driving using rental cars or borrowed vehicles. However, those purchasing or bringing a car from out of state will need to obtain a Louisiana Driver’s license. Further information can be found here..
Parking on the Tulane campus requires a student parking permit. Visit Tulane Parking Services for detailed information on obtaining parking permits and regulations.
Campus Parking Permits and Availability
Parking on campus as part of Tulane transportation requires adherence to parking permit zones. These zones are strictly enforced to ensure parking availability for permit holders.
Permit parking for residence hall students is primarily located in Diboll Garage. It’s important to note that freshman residents are generally not permitted to register vehicles or utilize campus parking areas. Parking availability is limited, and permits are allocated based on space constraints, not perceived need.
Options Without a Parking Permit
If you do not have a parking permit, it is advisable to avoid bringing a vehicle to campus. Limited two-hour parking is available on Audubon Boulevard as an alternative for short visits.
Move-In Day Parking
During move-in day, guests are responsible for legal parking, either with a valid permit or at paid meters. Campus parking regulations are clearly indicated by signage. Students are responsible for informing their guests of parking rules and the necessity of permits or meter payment.
For information regarding Downtown Campus parking, please visit campusservices.tulane.edu/departments/parking/downtown.
