The University Transit Channel focuses on the needs of university transportation professionals. This channel offers practical, timely information for bus operators at colleges and universities in North America. University transit leaders discuss funding and cost saving measures unique to university transit systems. Articles examine the challenges of promoting university transportation systems to a transient student population and explain how university transit systems can be integrated with other local and regional transit providers.



May 15, 2012

METRO publisher promoted to VP

Frank Di Giacomo’s new title is part of the changes brought on by METRO parent Bobit Business Media’s...

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May 15, 2012

APTA, BAF: Pass fully-funded transportation bill

Groups released a study predicting that record numbers of Americans will turn to public transportation...

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May 14, 2012

Web Extra: Universities creating bike-friendly atmospheres

Transit operators from California, Texas, Illinois and Colorado are making it easy for students...

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May 14, 2012

Md. university to install more solar powered bus shelters

The two new bus shelters’ solar panels will power an LED lighting system that provides the time...

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FEATURES

University Transit Turns to Technology, Partnerships to Cope with Demand

State budgets are squeezing colleges and universities at a time when enrollment is higher and a sluggish economy is causing more students to board campus buses. Partnering with both local transit authorities and contractors has saved transit services for many schools.


School Budget Woes Challenge Coach Operators with Student Transport Contracts

School budgets are declining, leaving many with no choice but to cut activities such as class trips and summer school. Carriers are negotiating fuel payments and benefiting from alternative vehicle scheduling.


15th BusCon to Deliver Products, Seminars for Success

The 140,000-square-feet of show floor will feature the latest vehicles and products on the market today, while alternative fuels, university transit topics and driver safety will be discussed during educational sessions.


Seating Options for Today's Passenger Transportation Systems

The latest industry models combine cutting-edge technology with modern design to enhance numerous vehicle interiors. Current features include three-point seat belts, “back-to-back” configurations, and anti-microbial/anti-bacterial vinyl and stainless steel structures.




PRODUCTS

Automatic Tire Chain System

Without having to stop the vehicle, the Onspot Automatic Tire Chain System offers the traction of a single set of conventional snow chains at the flip of a dashboard switch. An electric switch mounted in the cab provides 12 volts to an air solenoid mounted in the vehicle's frame rail. Designed for ice, packed snow and up to six inches of snow, the chain system eliminates wheel well damage from broken conventional chains. Other benefits include more hauling force, faster acceleration and a reduced stopping distance. DOT-approved in all 50 states.



Wheelchair Lift

The Mirage wheelchair lift has a low profile, cassette-type design, offering reliable operation with minimal intrusion in the luggage bay. The BayLift allows mid-ship or rear coach installation for layout flexibility. Both models feature a patented threshold warning system and are FMVSS compliant.



DEPARTMENTS

U. of Alabama grows fleet to keep pace with student population

Celebrating its fifth year, the University of Alabama’s Crimson Ride transit service recently signed a contract with Nova Bus for two buses per year over a five-year span to both replace vehicles and expand services.



Riverside Transit tests hydraulic hybrid system

RTA's ElDorado National vehicle is being used to test Eaton's hydraulic hybrid system, which was installed by Riverside, Calif.-based Complete Coach Works.

Travel Software to Aid Disabled Riders

To use the Travel Assistance Device, riders simply plan their trip online and follow the visual and verbal instructions on their cell phone.



Central Florida holds emergency preparedness workshop

The tragic earthquake in Haiti last January was still fresh in the minds of those who attended the Connecting Communities emergency preparedness workshop in Orlando, Fla.

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