The University Record, November 12, 1997

Transportation Services’ driver Tom Mercer (top) and Chet Lapinski, also from Transportation Services, demonstrate the lift on one of the handicap-accessible buses. At least one bus equipped for use by those with physical disabilities will be on the road during the times the Commuter buses run, pledges Pat Cunningham, manager of Transportation Services. Photo by Bob Kalmbach

By Jean M. Muscat

If you’re a frequent Universitybus rider, you may notice a change in the commuter route across campus.

In response to requests from the Handicap Parking Assistance Team(HPAT), Transportation Services has guaranteed that effective Mon., Nov.17, one bus on the commuter bus route will always be equipped with ahandicapped lift device.

This measure is in addition to theParatransit service already available to students. Students, faculty andstaff can call for curb-side para-transit service, either in advance or astheirneeds arise, through the Office of Services for Students withDisabilities. That system has two buses running Monday-Friday until 10p.m., and one during the night, but has no service on the weekends.

Six commuter buses run on a 10-minute schedule throughout the week.One bus on the route will have a lift for handicapped riders. (See chartbelow.) Weekend service for those who need lift-equippedtransportation is available from Central Campus to North Campus. Foravailability and other information, call Transportation Services,764-3427.

Pat Cunningham, manager of Transportation Services, receiveda recommendation from HPAT in October, suggesting the need for alift-equipped commuter bus. He implemented the guarantee last week. Cunningham says, “Of our 38 transit coaches, eight currently have lifts. In the future, all of them will be equipped to accommodate the handicapped.”

Here are the Monday-Friday times the handicapped-accessible bus will beon the commuter route.

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