Double-decker buses join ASU intercampus shuttle routes

More seats on every route, enhanced Wi-Fi, first-class amenities and a panoramic view are in store for intercampus shuttle passengers this spring semester. A new shuttle fleet that includes double-decker buses debuts Jan. 11 on the Gold and Maroon routes. Students, faculty and staff who take the shuttles to travel between the four ASU campuses will sit in newly renovated buses equipped with a USB charging port and standard electrical outlet at every seat.

The recently signed contract with Divine Transportation maintains current intercampus shuttle service levels and offers more capacity and amenities at significant cost savings. Intercampus shuttle service is funded entirely by ASU Parking and Transit Services (PTS) revenue. As a self-funded auxiliary department, PTS does not receive any tuition dollars, student fees or state money.

“Each bus will transport more students per trip, which aligns with the university’s carbon-neutrality goals,” said JC Porter, PTS assistant director for commuter services. “The savings from the new contract preserves the viability of the shuttle program to meet the demand for more capacity as ASU’s enrollment continues to grow.”

Eight of the 13 shuttles on the Maroon and Gold routes will be double-decker buses with a maximum occupancy of 101 passengers. These new buses accommodate more seated passengers than current buses on the routes offer for seated and standing passengers combined. Two doors on each bus will facilitate quicker loading and unloading for the more than 21,000 Sun Devils who ride the shuttles each week.

“I am proud of the PTS staff and student committee who participated in the bid process,” said PTS director Melinda Alonzo. “They recommended a provider that is committed to meeting ASU’s service requirements and to improving amenities that allow students to remain productive while commuting between campuses.”

Sun Devils who want a sneak peek at the double-decker shuttle are invited to tour the bus this week at the following times:

• 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Dec. 1, Tempe campus, Orange Street
• 2 – 3 p.m. Dec. 1, Downtown Phoenix campus, McKinley Lot
• 8 – 9 a.m. Dec. 2, Polytechnic campus, north side of Lot 37
• Noon – 1 p.m. Dec. 2, West campus, University Way North east of 49th Avenue

Learn more about ASU intercampus shuttles and follow @asu2asuShuttles on Twitter.