Finding opportunity in congestion: operators eye transit dollars

With gas prices high and transit dollars lagging leaps in transit demand, it's becoming a common sight in metropolitan areas: buses whizzing by many of their stops, too full to pick up waiting passengers. Smart operators are asking themselves if there's an opportunity to pick up a few transit dollars, either by partnering with agencies or adding independent commuter express services to their repertoire.

Michael Melaniphy, vice president of MCI Public Sector, advises coach operators to go to agencies and offer their services, presenting them as mutually beneficial solutions to market need. "Many transit agencies are in need of additional capacity, but they can't afford to purchase new buses as quickly as they need them." says Melaniphy. "Private coach operators can offer a solution, even if it's temporary. There's no reason not to make the call."

Doing it the Riteway way

Ron Bast, president of Riteway Bus, Wisconsin, is one operator that already offers commuter coach service. The company has seen a huge increase in the number of riders between Washington County, Wisconsin, and Milwaukee. Riteway works in conjunction with local and county agencies to provide the service, which has grown each of the four years it's been in operation.

"With rising fuel prices and everyone going green and being economical, the service is looking strong for the future," says Bast, who is looking to add more routes. And though he credits the economy with much of the credit (or blame) for making bus travel more attractive to riders, it's not the whole story. Riteway makes sure the company offers value that goes beyond reasonable fares.

Says Bast, "You have to be on time; have clean, efficient vehicles; and have courteous drivers who offer professional, personal service."

Tips from the masters

Rochester City Lines, Minnesota, has been in the transit business since 1966, when the company was founded by George Holter. It stands today as an exception to the modern rule — a private company that offers public transit. The company runs both transit buses and commuter coaches, and the Holters also own Richfield Bus and Heartland Tours.

While many operators feel they need to approach transit agencies and be given permission to offer transit service, Dan Holter, general manager, is more assertive. "Sometimes you have to use your muscle," Says Holter. "Roads are public domain, paid for by private citizens' tax dollars. Agencies can't tell operators they can't use roads or park-and-rides. When push comes to shove, it's public property."

Holter also believes that many tour and charter operators are well positioned to offer commuter-express services, in part because such services are mostly Monday-to-Friday affairs, leaving equipment free for weekend leisure trips. He also points out that companies that offer their employees transportation can enjoy tax benefits — a considerable point for coach operators selling their services.

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