During a driving Bay Area rainstorm, AC Transit bus stops overflow with seniors and students alike, who despite the waterlogged roads need to get there. Some stops experience riders choosing to work onboard while gazing at the beauty of San Francisco Bay as their commute crosses the Bay, San Mateo and Dumbarton Bridges. Thousands of other commuters, whose weekend or workday end at 3:00 a.m., assemble at AC Transit bus stops because they depend on the East Bay’s only overnight public transit. No matter the need, an AC Transit Operator and coach reliably arrive at our bus stops, safely transporting riders where they need to go.
For their efforts, the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District gratefully recognizes each of its 1,370 operators on this National Transit Driver Appreciation Day. In fact, our Operators brave the elements, allay the concerns of 53 million riders a year, and drive more than 22.7 million service miles every year. Some even finesse time as a night owl operators while delivering world-class service, seven days a week.
“Witnessing the challenges bus operators face every day reminds me the rubber literally meets the road because of professional bus operators,” said Michael Hursh, AC Transit general manager. “AC Transit’s Operators employ more than skillful driving but care and compassion for our riders daily. Please join me Friday and every day that follows, in a heartfelt thank you for the unsung heroes behind the wheel.”
AC Transit will honor all Operators on Friday, March 16, and encouraged all riders to recognize their operator with a unique expression of gratitude. It could be a smiling “thank you” while departing the coach. Perhaps a card or note with a personal message. For those digitally inclined, snap a photo or selfie (NOTE: only when safe and with your Operator’s consent) and Tweet that image to @rideACT or #i♥teamACT.