Mayor Dave should try riding the bus

Wisconsin State Journal, February 17, 2009

It's great that Metro Transit ridership was up 6 percent in 2008. A fare increase to $1.75 or $2 could turn current bus riders back to driving their cars.

Something not mentioned is the time it takes to use Metro. To avoid missing a bus, you must be at the stop 10 minutes early (recommended by Metro supervisors) and be prepared to wait five or 10 minutes after the estimated arrival time. Often it takes more than one bus to get to your location. If one is late and you miss a transfer, the wait is 30 to 60 minutes.

I take many buses a day, and what bothers me most is the lack of customer service from some drivers. In a recent complaint follow-up, a Metro supervisor claimed 85 percent of drivers are outstanding, but 15 percent could use better customer service skills. That has not been my experience. (I am lucky to have a few excellent drivers. Thanks, guys -- you know who you are!)

Where would the money go? In Friday's letter from a bus driver, she thought the increase would go to improving service and security. I challenge Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and his family to use the bus for one week. Maybe he'd have a better idea where the money needs to go.

Shawna Cain, Madison
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