To the editor:

For 25 years, the Bloedel Reserve has tried to solve the one question that riddles every business on Bainbridge Island outside of Winslow: How can we get walk-on visitors from the ferry out to the reserve? We’ve dreamed of purchasing shuttle buses and considered making arrangements with RideShare companies, but nothing panned out.

So imagine our delight when Kitsap Transit announced “B.I. Ride,” its new and enhanced dial-a-ride service leaving from the ferry with regularly scheduled stops at Bloedel Reserve’s gates and at Lynwood Center. Our biggest barrier for out-of-town visitors is virtually eliminated (except on Sundays when the B.I. Ride doesn’t operate).

On behalf of the staff and board of trustees at Bloedel Reserve, I’d like to thank Kitsap Transit for providing this service to our gardens and to the rest of the outlying businesses on Bainbridge Island. And to our friends and neighbors, please make use of the new B.I. Ride service. The service is not just for tourists, but for Island residents as well.

For complete schedule information, visit www.kitsaptransit.com. The more riders who use this transportation option, the greater the likelihood is that this fantastic service continues.

ED MOYDELL

Executive Director, Bloedel Reserve