DURHAM, N.C. — Last year, Duke University launched a project that would connect students and downtown Durham with a new bus system, The Chronicle reported. Durham and school officials are now evaluating the success of the Bull City Connector program and asking themselves whether students are taking full advantage of the free transportation between West Campus and the downtown area.
Although officials originally hoped the buses would serve approximately 2,000 riders a day, daily ridership is roughly 1,500, Phail Wynn, Duke’s vice president for Durham and regional affairs, told The Chronicle. Most of the riders appear to be locals, particularly Duke employees going to and from work, instead of Duke students. For the full story, click here.
Duke U. bus falls short of ridership goal
The Bull City Connector was launched last year to connect students to downtown Durham. Daily ridership is about 1,500, which is 500 less than the goal. Most riders appear to be locals and campus staff instead of students.
More Bus

ABC Delivers Van Hools to Coach USA and More in Biz Briefs
In METRO's latest installment, we take a look at the latest news from suppliers including Moovit, CAF, and more.
Read More →
Inez Evans Benson on Rethinking Transit Through Customer Experience
The WSP leader discusses why agencies must look beyond satisfaction metrics and take a more holistic, community-driven approach to service.
Read More →
Intercity Bus Industry Outlook: A Mix of Apprehension & Optimism
Industry leaders see both promise and peril ahead as intercity bus travel rebounds, but unpredictable market forces threaten to reshape the sector.
Read More →
Bus Tech Talk: AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon on Leadership, Mentorship, and a Career in Transit
In Part 1, Blandon shares his journey from the U.S. Marines to a leadership role in public transit, along with insights on mentorship and professional growth within the industry.
Read More →
Vancouver's TransLink Fast-Tracks RapidBus Line to Metrotown
Funded through the 2025 Investment Plan, the new R2 Marine–Willingdon RapidBus is expected to begin service in September, more than three months ahead of schedule.
Read More →
Complete Coach Works Unveils Reimagined Parts Department with Expanded Capabilities
Complete Parts features new branding with a new logo, a new contact telephone number, a dedicated order desk, enhanced processes and inventory, all designed to provide the parts bus operations need.
Read More →
Breaking Accessibility Barriers with the Low Floor Frontrunner Minibus
Accessible transit isn’t a feature—it’s a responsibility. This whitepaper explores how the Low-Floor Frontrunner is redefining mobility with a breakthrough design that removes barriers, empowers riders, and delivers measurable operational advantages for agencies. Discover why this next generation minibus is setting a new standard for inclusive transportation.
Read More →
ENC Named 'Partner of Choice' to Support Philadelphia SEPTA’s $43M FTA Grant
SEPTA was awarded $43 million in competitive grant funding from the FTA's FY25 Low and No Emission and Bus and Bus Facilities grant programs to support this procurement.
Read More →
AC Transit’s Cecil Blandon on Leadership, Mentorship, and a Career in Transit
In part 1 of a two-part conversation, AC Transit’s director of maintenance joins co-hosts Alex Roman and Mark Hollenbeck to discuss his journey from the U.S. Marines to public transit and the role mentorship plays in developing the next generation of industry leaders.
Read More →
MBTA Confirms Funding for Upgraded Arborway Bus Facility
When construction is complete, battery-electric buses will operate from the Arborway facility on Day One, providing cleaner, quieter, and more reliable service for riders, the MBTA said. After completion, the old facility will be demolished, and the land will be made available for redevelopment.
Read More →
