10 Questions We All Want To Ask The UMass Amherst Bus System

There is no doubt that UMass Amherst Students appreciate the bus system. Waiting in the cold for a few minutes definitely beats walking 20 minutes across campus to get to class; especially during a snowstorm. However, there are flaws with the UMass Amherst bus system that many of us constantly think about.

1. What is the max capacity the bus can hold? Is there no weight limit?

As the bus pulls up to the ILC, hundreds of students race to get a place on the bus. As students fold up the seats and the driver yells, “Move in!”, you become way too close to the stranger next to you. Not only is this uncomfortable, but it definite
ly cannot be safe.

2. Alright… now what is the legal limit?

Okay, so now that you’ve thought about it…what is the answer? For real,how much can the bus actually hold?

3. What are the craziest stories you have heard while driving around college students?

Driving around college students all day, you must have heard some interesting stories. All we do on the bus is gossip and complain. I’m sure you have heard some crazy things.

4. Why do certain buses not run on the weekends?

It is quite the inconvenience when it gets cold out and certain bus routes are
available on the weekends. Maybe I wanted to study at the library and don’t want to trek in the snow to get there.

5. Why is there not a bus route to the frat houses?

It is such a nuisance walking in heels all the way to frat houses, and it probably isn’t too safe either. It would benefit so many students if there was a route dedicated to frat houses and back to dorms. Instead of wasting money for an Uber, especially on a Friday night when the surge charges are extremely high, students would save a lot of money and get around in a safer way.

6. Why does the bus take off before everyone is situated?

I cannot even count the amount of times I have almost face planted because the bus took off as I was walking on. It would be greatly appreciated if the drivers made sure everyone is either seated or holding onto something before they decide to speed away from the curb.

7. Do you pretend not to see people running towards the bus?

It is beyond frustrating when you are running late for a 2:47 bus and as you’re running there at 2:48 and people are still loading the bus, the driver speeds away just as you’re approaching. I know you saw me…

8. Do you enjoy your job?

Usually the students walking onto the bus are not exactly happy. They are either leaving class or on their way there. Maybe they have a test they are stressed about or maybe they pulled an all nighter. Whatever it is, many college students are very stressed and probably don’t enter the bus with a smile on their face.

9. Is there any reason that lot 22 is not under 24 hour surveillance?

Many students pay money to have a yearly pass for the lot located in southwest. However, other students who do not pay, park there anyway and get away with it. Students who do pay are frustrated not only because as they return to the lot, there is nowhere for them to park, but also because campus police does nothing about it.

10. Can every Uber be like Uber mike?

Uber Mike is by far the best Uber on campus. Not only does he show up in a suit and tie, he also provides water, mints and lifesavers. His hospitality combined with his love for being an Uber driver makes the Uber drivers seem sub par.