Rising gas prices create an obstacle for students planning to return home or visit friends, as ISU students are beginning to feel the effects of the inflated gas prices caused by Hurricane Katrina.

“It’s really a pain because it’s harder to get people together,” said Amie Rosman-Bakehouse, sophomore in psychology.

Other students had similar reactions.

“Due to the rising gas prices, I will be trying to conserve my gas where I can until gas prices fall,” said Meredith Ghrist, freshman in art and design.

Rosman-Bakehouse said rising fuel costs make her less inclined to drive home to Sumner. It used to cost her around $30 to fill up for a trip home, and now costs closer to $40.

“People are less likely to go anywhere,” she said.

Ashley Ibeling, freshman in agricultural business from Ackley, also said she may have to go home less often if prices continue to rise. Ibeling said she is grateful that she owns a small car and not a big truck. Some students are not concerned about the rising fuel price.

“It doesn’t bug me,” said Brian Kalina, junior in mechanical engineering. “I never intend on getting a fuel-efficient car anytime soon.”

Instead, Kalina said he is trying to drive in such a way as to conserve gas. Kalina recommended keeping the tire pressure at its specified level, having the car properly tuned and observing good driving habits, such as not speeding.

CyRide is also feeling the pain of higher gas prices. Bob Bourne, director of transportation for CyRide, said the company is being forced to dip into a reserve fund to meet higher fuel costs. Since July 1, CyRide has used $10,000 from the fund, Bourne said.

Throughout the coming weeks, CyRide officials will be evaluating bus routes and possibly eliminating duplicate routes. Bourne said the evaluation is done every year at this time and the bus routes are reshaped to fit current needs.

“We’ll always meet demand,” Bourne said. “We will not leave anyone behind.”

CyRide officials also plan to continue to offer free fare for students. This is made possible through student fees, Ames property tax and university contributions. Future budget plans will depend on where prices go in the coming weeks and during the next year, Bourne said.

For right now, all students and officials can do is wait and see what gas prices will do.