Modern universities often resemble self-contained cities. Their buildings are usually spread out, and expansions happen over time, resulting in campuses that can extend for miles. On average, student populations number in the thousands, with larger colleges hosting tens of thousands of students. If you think of a college campus as a city, then the importance of a university transportation system becomes obvious. This is where shuttle buses can help.
A shuttle bus program is an excellent option for universities needing on- and off-campus transportation solutions. Let’s look at some advantages an effective program can offer your valued students and staff!
Student Safety
Shuttles provide college students with a safe and reliable way to travel on and off campus. Without dependable transportation, it is difficult for students to participate in social and academic activities or at least do so safely. For example, a shuttle program will make it easier for students to get to and from sports games, club meetings, special campus events, parties, and even late-night library study sessions. Finding a way to and home from these places on their own, especially after dark, can put students in unsafe situations. Plus, since trained and vetted drivers operate them, shuttles are a more secure option than ride-sharing apps. This can be a comfort not just for students but also for their parents.
Efficient Commutes
It can be challenging for college students to get to classes safely and on time on larger or smaller but more widespread campuses. Professors who teach classes in different buildings face the same problem. This lack of transportation may limit what classes they can take/teach and activities they can participate in. In cases such as inclement weather or students with physical disabilities, getting to regular classes can even become impossible. A shuttle bus program can turn a stressful 30-minute-1 hour ordeal into a 10-15-minute commute. Students and staff will save time and effort without limiting their college experience.
Reduce Parking Issues
One of the biggest obstacles colleges face today is insufficient parking. Student commuters and staff often spend 15-20 minutes just trying to find a parking spot and then often end up having to walk another 15-20 minutes to their building on top of it. Not to mention, parking passes are not always affordable for many students struggling to handle collegiate expenses (tuition, books, room/board, dining, etc.) as it is. With a shuttle service, parking becomes more accessible because commuters can spread out further from campus without having to walk a mile to class. This will also help reduce traffic congestion on and around campus, lowering the risk of accidents.
Off-Campus Access
Most college students who live on campus don’t have a car to help them get around. Many universities even have policies prohibiting freshman dorm students from having a car at school. This presents problems when they have needs that can’t be fulfilled on campus. This might include doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping, pharmacy trips, getting supplies for classes or dorm rooms, seeing friends and family, and attending school-sponsored activities off-campus, some of which are required for certain classes. A shuttle program solves this problem and shows students that you care about providing them with everything they need. With these worries eliminated, students can better focus on school and have an enriching college experience.
As one of the largest bus providers in the country, Las Vegas Bus Sales is here to help any university looking to establish an on-campus transportation program. Our wide selection of new and used shuttle buses can provide the vehicles you need to run a safe and reliable service for your students and staff.
Get in touch with us today to learn more about our available buses!