TransitCenter report examines the transit operator crisis

[marmar]

TransitCenter report examines the transit operator crisis
July 21, 2022

The report outlines the reasons the crisis is being exacerbated and offers solutions for transit agencies, as well as federal and state governments to implement with a goal of easing situation.
Mischa Wanek-Libman




A new report from TransitCenter looks at the bus operator crisis impacting transit by examining the many factors feeding the crisis and providing several solutions on how to combat against it.

The report, “Bus Operators in Crisis – The Steady Deterioration of One of Transit’s Most Essential Jobs and How Agencies can Turn Things Around,” is authored by Chris Van Eyken and frames the issue in bleak numbers:

* 71 percent of agencies reported to the American Public Transportation Association that service has been cut or delays have increased because of shortfalls in operators;

* Nine in 10 agencies state they have difficulty hiring new employees, with bus operations the most difficult to fill;

* Two-thirds of agencies report similar challenges with retention of workers.

The report says the operator shortage is resulting in delayed expansions, is a roadblock in the industry’s recovery from the extreme loss of ridership brought by the pandemic and is disproportionately impacting communities of color.

The report says outside of the pandemic, increased rates of retirement, recruitment struggles, concerns with safety and the perception that operator positions are not viewed as attractive are all compounding the challenge. ...........(more)

https://www.masstransitmag.com/management/article/21274909/transitcenter-report-examines-the-transit-operator-crisis

[MichMan]

1. Pay them $75 per hour and the problem goes away

Raise fares as needed to cover the increased costs