Bus reliability

To the editor:

I am a daily rider of the T, a public transportation service provided by the Lawrence Public Transit system. Prior to moving to Lawrence for graduate studies at KU, one of my main considerations in determining a domicile was its proximity to the T line. On average, the T is fairly dependable, but at least twice a month, I am disappointed when the bus is at least 15 minutes late, or does not show at all. I have followed this up with managerial staff on several occasions; however, their constant apologies are wearing rather thin.

On Feb. 14, I arrived at the bus stop a few minutes early. I braved the elements (5 degrees above zero) for nearly 20 minutes. At my particular stop, buses in either direction pass within two to three minutes of each other. However, on this day, neither bus came. Regardless of the weather, the Lawrence Public Transit system has a civic responsibility to not leave passengers stranded on the routes. As a regular passenger, I know that my stop is sometimes bypassed when the buses are behind schedule.

Regardless of the situation, my livelihood depends on the timely arrival of the bus. Apologies do not get me to class or my job on time.

I consider myself a veteran of public transportation systems, having traveled by bus in many U.S. cities, and while living abroad for several years. In all of my experience, I consider the T to be the least reliable. Lawrence deserves better service.

Nathanael May,

Lawrence