From Classroom to Community: Seniors Explore GoCary Through Hands-On Learning

Fifteen seniors tested their transit knowledge during a recent GoCary field trip, gaining firsthand experience navigating Cary’s bus system. The outing was the second part of a GoCary transit class, building on classroom instruction that introduced participants to the system and how to use it.

Program Manager for Seniors and Aging, Michelle Barrett, and Transit Public Outreach Specialist, Fabian Rodriguez, guided the group through the experience, helping participants build confidence and discover new ways to stay connected to their community.

Starting at Cary Depot

The group gathered at the Cary Depot, which some participants were visiting for the first time. There, they met bus drivers and learned about connections to GoTriangle and Amtrak. Participants also viewed the site of Cary’s future multimodal center and received an introduction to the planned Western Bus Rapid Transit project and its future connection to Cary.

The visit offered a broader look at how local and regional transportation services connect, with Cary Depot serving as an important starting point for trips within and beyond town.

Putting Transit Skills into Practice

Participants boarded Route 5–Kildaire Farm and practiced using the GoCary App to follow their location along the route and find schedules for bus stops. The ride turned classroom lessons into practical skills they could use on future trips.

Along the way, the group explored how the route connects people to downtown destinations - including Downtown Cary Park, Cary Regional Library, and the Cary Arts Center - as well as retirement communities, shopping centers, the hospital, and more.

Sharing the ride with other passengers also gave participants a firsthand look at how people use the bus every day to get around Cary.

Building Confidence and Connection

On the return trip, the group stopped at Esteamed Coffee for a break and a chance to reflect on the experience before walking back to Cary Depot. The stop provided time to ask questions, share observations, and connect with fellow participants.

With 56 residents on the waiting list, the strong response highlights the value of hands-on programs that support independence, mobility, and community connection. Additional field trips are planned for winter and spring, giving more residents an opportunity to build their skills and confidence using GoCary.

Interested in exploring where GoCary can take you? Visit https://gocary.org/reasontoride/ to learn about routes and plan your trip.