January 23, 2012
University launches bus route to serve students, faculty, staff
Submitted by Communications and Marketing
Kansas State University and the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency have partnered to create a campus bus route.
The route, which started the first day of the spring semester, serves students, faculty and staff free of charge.
The fixed-route loop connects Kramer Dining Center, Jardine Apartments, the Center for Child Development and Derby Dining Center. The route runs every 30 minutes from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays. Students, faculty and staff must show their university-issued identification card to ride the bus without paying.
"This bus route will not only provide quick access, but it will help keep our students safe," said Derek Jackson, director of housing and dining services. "Students living in Jardine had to drive or walk to the Kramer or Derby dining centers to eat meals, which could pose issues during inclement weather and late hours."
The bus serving the route can transport up to 20 passengers. It has a bicycle rack and is equipped with a lift to accommodate those using a wheelchair.
"We always listen carefully to the concerns of our students and take them seriously," said Pat Bosco, vice president for student life and dean of students. "This pilot route is a great step forward to meeting the needs of Kansas State University students and families, and it would not have been possible without the leadership of housing and dining services staff."
The Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency offers transportation services in the university's SafeRide program, which provides free, safe rides home to students in threatening situations. The nonprofit agency also provides transportation to students using disability support services.
"We are very excited about this partnership and are grateful for the opportunity to further serve Kansas State University students," said Anne Smith, director of the Flint Hills Area Transportation Agency. "We look forward to working together and believe the university will be a critical partner in providing more transportation services throughout the community."
Here is the bus schedule, and here is the bus route.