Capitalizing on the construction: MCTS & bars that run shuttle buses will be busy during Summerfest

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Summerfest 2014 begins on Wednesday, June 25th -- and if you're driving there, it will be more difficult than it's been in the past -- but there are several cheap alternatives!

Construction on the Hoan Bridge and I-794 has taken away many of the Third Ward lots and parking spaces Summerfest attendees have used in the past.

In response, the Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS) is slashing some of its shuttle fares -- while other shuttle providers are expecting to be even busier than usual.

"We started it years ago because Summerfest used to be our slowest time of year because everyone would be at Summerfest, but now they stop here, get something to eat, something to drink, and hop on the free shuttle bus," Jerry Steny -- the owner of Steny's Tavern & Grill said.

Steny says every year, his fleet of shuttle buses takes 300 to 500 people to Summerfest -- daily!

He's expecting even more riders this year.

Just outside of Maier Festival Park, the familiar red barrels are accompanied by orange. Parking meters are covered, and public lots in the Third Ward are closed due to construction.

In response, MCTS is offering $1 rides on its downtown Summerfest shuttle, which runs along Wisconsin Avenue.

In the past, the shuttle fare was $3.

"We`re offering this lower, discounted fare because we know there is increased construction all over the area -- plus there`s a decrease in Park and Ride lots," MCTS spokeswoman Jacqueline Zeledon said.

MCTS says another change will be at Park and Ride lots throughout Milwaukee County.

This year, special buses will be staged where riders can pay for Freeway Flyers in advance.

"We`re doing that because, again, because of the construction projects taking place and we want to make sure that during those peak times, people can board the bus easily and efficiently," Zeledon said.

MCTS says it sends out more than 60 additional buses daily during Summerfest.

They'll be joined by the numerous shuttle buses from bars and restaurants hoping to capitalize on the construction.

"We anticipate being real busy," Steny said.

Steny's has run a shuttle to Summerfest for more than 20 years.

NOTE: If you are planning on taking the MCTS shuttle but haven't in the past, you need the exact fare. The driver won't give you change.

CLICK HERE for more information from MCTS on shuttles and Freeway Flyers for Summerfest.