Passenger Bus, Rail and Motorcoach Industry News

Taking measures to accommodate growing ridership, dealing with driver staffing shortages and introducing new bus routes and vehicle features are keeping university transit operators busy as the Fall semester gets under way.

Some university transportation system operators we interviewed said they allow exterior bus advertising to bring in more revenue or to promote the university. Others say that being based in areas with small advertising markets means extra effort but not revenue.

GM Lew May told the city council during budget hearings that the agency and IU have had several meetings but are in disagreement on how the two systems would split revenues.

University needs to replace 18 of its 27 diesel fuel buses, which have reached the 12-year mark.

Students can choose to donate to the fund when course registration opens on April 4, 2011, and the option to donate will be available every subsequent registration period. Potential projects might include enhancing transportation infrastructure, extending recycling coverage, purchasing motion-sensor lighting and installing solar panels.

The down economy has caused a large spike in student enrollment, boosting ridership numbers. Without federal or state funds to purchase additional buses, the system has had to find other ways to accommodate more riders.

Task force report points out that Indiana laws on pedestrian crossings are confusing, creating a need for better signage and education.

Some schools do not classify student workers as “essential/emergency support employees” and thus cannot require them to work during weather emergencies.