Eastern Illinois University (EIU) in Charleston, Ill.,
has decided to provide its own shuttle bus service, ending a six-year
relationship with H&H Shuttle Services.
Dan Nadler, vice president for student affairs, said the decision to take
back the operation of the shuttle buses delays the need for an immediate
student fee increase. “Our primary goals include providing a high quality
service and maximizing the use of existing student fees,” he said.
“This decision is in no way a reflection on past bus service,” Nadler
added. “It’s just that we’ve talked about doing this for years. And with
our contract with H & H expiring, we thought this would be the perfect
opportunity for us to pursue the project."
The university will lease two 2007 Allstar shuttle buses manufactured by
Starcraft, according to Nadler. The ADA-compliant buses, due for delivery on
Aug. 10, will have a capacity of 20 passengers.
Midwest Transit Equipment Inc., based in Kankakee, will supply the vehicles, which
will be easily recognized by the EIU markings on their exteriors.
Nadler said the university is forecasting some cost savings over the
duration of the lease agreement, but added that estimates are difficult because
of the constantly changing price of fuel. “Our goal is excellent stewardship of
student fees and cost avoidance in the future,” he said.