Five bands, no cover and free pizza. People that were at Doc's Music Hall on Saturday night had a good time and were only asked one favor: to donate to the fund for the "Tipsy Trolley."
Although the event only raised a little over $100, Michael Martin, owner of Doc's, said people became aware of the trolley's existence.
"I think as soon as people see [the trolley] is consistent, they'll start using it more," he said. "The night was decent, and people saw the trolley run, so they grew aware."
Jon McKinney, member of One Side Later, a band that participated in the fundraiser, said he was glad to volunteer that night for the cause.
"All the other bands are volunteering as well," he said. "So I think it puts us under a common umbrella. We are helping a good cause."
McKinney said having the trolley running would help support local music and downtown attractions, as well as promoting safe driving.
"I'm glad to help fellow drunk students get back safely," he said.
The Late Loop, a MITS trolley that shuttles bar-goers to and from campus for free, was an idea that originated from Ball State students in 2007. The project was supported by Downtown Development, but there were not enough funds to operate the trolley for the entire semester.
Junior fashion design major Nicholas Salmon said he rode the trolley downtown on weekends and supports the cause.
"It's amazing what [Downtown Development] is doing," he said. "It's a good way to promote local business and gives variety to students. People can go to other venues downtown."
Salmon said he encouraged students to ride the trolley since it is safe and free of charge.
"I hope people are more aware of the trolley," he said. "It's an awesome experience."
The organization's goal for this semester is to have the trolley run every Friday and Saturday until the end of the school year. Although they still have to raise more funds for this goal, Downtown Development paid in advance for one month and the trolley began running this weekend. According to MITS ridership data, more than 500 students rode the bus this weekend.
Martin said he hopes students show support for the Late Loop to increase ridership and prove the convenience of the trolley.
"If students keep using it, then more students will notice it and support it and ridership will go up," he said.
Read More
Three Air Jam teams take home the win
October 12, 2012Nineteen teams shimmied, shook and flipped for a sold out John R. Emens Auditorium on Thursday night during the 25th annual Air Jam.
Bill Clinton Speaks at North Central High School
October 12, 2012Former President's Speech Could Have Effect on State Senate Race
