Getting Around: What Do Commuters Think?

Hyattsville is home to many businesses, schools and government offices. One of the biggest issues for many workers who commute in and out of Hyattsville throughout the week is finding the most convenient way to travel.

"I prefer to drive because it more comfortable for me to be in the confines of my own vehicle and it's a lot cheaper than catching the Metro," said Metro Access worker Charlotte Ngondi.

Ngondi works for Metro Access, whose offices are located at University Town Center. Ngondi lives in Arlington, Va. and has been working in Hyattsville for close to two years now.

"My gas is $30-$35 a week for me to get back and forth to work which is good compared to $50-$60 a week," Ngondi said.

The higher prices of riding the Metro are a major problem for many workers who commute to Hyattsville.

"If I decided to catch the Metro everyday to work I would have to catch the bus outside of my housing complex which is a 10 minute walk to the bus stop," said Metro Access worker Cory Smith who has worked in Hyattsville for a year.

Smith lives in Bowie. He has decided to drive into work everyday because in order for him to make it into work on time driving works best.

"I love working in Hyattsville, though it's a 20 to 30 commute everyday," Smith said. "It has so much to offer. Hyattsville has good lunch spots, the Mall at Prince George's is right across from my job and the city is very diverse."

However for some residents of Hyattsville who work outside the confines of the city the traveling isn't always pleasant.

Laura Carrington, a part-time University of Maryland student and Hyattsville resident, lives in Hyattsville near the Hamilton Street corridor but travels everyday to Chevy Chase to work as a waiter at a restaurant.

"My commute to work is way too long," she said. "With all the recent building and renovations in Hyattsville I hope to find work closer to home and school so I can save money and time."

"My travel is close to an hour each way and I spend close to $55 getting back and forth throughout the week."

Despite their commuting concerns, many enjoy working in Hyattsville because of its convenience. With so many shopping centers and stores being within close proximity to each other commuters enjoy the Hyattsville area.

"Hyattsville works get for me," said Alissa Issacs who lives and works in Hyattsville. "I live here. I work here. Hyattsville has so many options."