Shuttle Services Add More Routes

The shuttle that runs between the River and Quad areas travels more frequently this year than last.

Responding to the results of a student survey taken last winter, the committee overseeing the shuttle added morning times on weekends, an earlier time on weekdays, and additional shuttles between 10 and 11 a.m.

Peter M. Witt, the general manager of the shuttle and fleet management services, said the changes were more compatible with student's class schedules.

"Some are relevant to safety, a majority are in response to last winter's survey," Witt said.

Witt said that in order to support the new schedule, there would be a "significant addition" of drivers. The existing fleet of seven buses will not be increased substantially, although another Bluebird bus will be added this year.

The new schedule was uniformly praised by Quad residents.

Derrick N. Ashong '97, a Currier resident who said he rides the shuttle daily, said he appreciates the expanded service.

"I liked it before, but I think increased shuttle service can only be a further benefit for the Quad community," Ashong said.

A new housemate of Ashong's, Jennifer B. Landry '99, also said she also appreciated the new schedule.

"That's totally necessary," said Jennifer B. Landry '99, a resident of Currier House. "I'm an athlete and I really need it."

"[Infrequent shuttle service] is one of the reasons no one wants to live in the Quad," Landry added.

This year's pamphlet listing times and routes has also been revamped. Glossy paper and many new colors have replaced last year's red, black, and white layout.

The phone numbers of many University services, including Safety-Walk and the University Health Services, are now consolidated and prominently marked.

Two Pforzheimer residents said that while they support the broadened service, the shuttle service needs to expand even further.

"I would like to see it coming 24 hours," Christopher E. Gidopoulos '99 said. "It's sort of far, which is what we want the shuttle for."

"Though obviously, it's economically sensible not to have it 24 hours a day, it puts Harvard students at risk," said Justin D. Rosofsky '99. "It really would be a great convenience if you are working late with a friend at the River."

--Courtney A. Coursey contributed to the reporting of this story.