ECAT Leads Transit Industry in Social Media Outreach
Pensacola residents can follow transit system online
November 19, 2008
Pensacola, Fla. – Representatives for Escambia County Area Transit (ECAT) announced today the launch of a social media component which offers more ways for residents to plug into the system. These online networking applications enable ECAT to communicate directly and instantaneously with Pensacola residents, notifying of upcoming route changes, special promotions and community events. Additionally, residents are able to get a sneak peek at ECAT mascot videos, photos and television commercials.
Those interested in connecting with ECAT can do so through the following:
- Facebook.com - Name: ECAT Mascot
- Myspace.com/ECATmascot
- Twitter.com/ECATmascot
- YouTube.com/ECATmascot
“These online networks allow us to connect with Pensacola residents in a new way,” said Travis Lakin, General Manager for ECAT. “It creates a two-way dialogue, through which end users can communicate and become directly engaged with the system.”
This social media launch comes at a time when ridership continues to climb. According to October statistics, ridership is up 25 percent as compared to January of this year. These numbers reflect a seven percent increase annually – three percent above the national average.
“We are excited to reach not only current customers through this initiative, but all residents in the Pensacola area,” said Nancy Lohr, ECAT Director of Marketing and Customer Services. “ECAT opens doors to opportunities for all of us – from riders to business owners and everyone in between.”
Public transportation generates a financial return for communities and businesses as well as individual and collective savings that can be captured and invested locally. In fact, according to the American Public Transportation Association, for every dollar invested in public transportation projects, approximately $6 in local economic activity is generated.
ECAT began operation in 1950 and serves Escambia County seven days a week with over 1500 stops daily. Operation includes fixed route, ADA paratransit, Pensacola Beach and UWF Trolley service. For more information call (850) 595-3228 or visit www.goecat.com. All buses are equipped with bike racks and ADA lifts.
