Ride ACT

AC Transit Board to Meet in Newark on 10/26/11

2011-10-24T14:41:00.000-07:00

Once a year, the AC Transit Board of Directors holds its regular meeting in the southern part of the District. This year, the meeting takes place on Wednesday, October 26, at 5:00 p.m., at the Newark City Council Chambers, 37101 Newark Boulevard (served by bus lines 251, 264, and 275). Bus riders and the general public are invited to attend. Among the key agenda items will be:

- Update on service and operations in Special District 2 (Fremont and Newark)
- Report on the District's Automated Vehicle Annunciation (AVA) system (on-board stop announcements)
- Recommendations for the District's 2012 State and Federal Advocacy Programs (legislative objectives)

The final agenda and documents related to the above items (and others) are posted on the AC Transit web site, www.actransit.org (and click on "Board Meetings"). See background article.

Update on AC Transit Blog Posts

2011-05-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

Dear friends of AC Transit,

While we look into options for integrating blog content with our web site, AC Transit is not actively updating this blog. For the most up-to-date AC Transit service and general information, please visit our web site, www.actransit.org. Better yet, you can sign up for AC Transit e-News directly from our homepage, become a fan on Facebook, www.facebook.com/rideact, or follow us on Twitter @rideact.

AC Transit Marketing & Communications

Youth 31-Day Passes On Clipper (Translink) Youth Cards

2010-06-25T09:38:00.000-07:00

Starting July 1, Youth 31-Day passes will be available only on personalized Clipper (TransLink) Youth cards. Sales of paper (magnetic-strip) Youth 31-Day tickets will end on June 30, and the tickets will not be accepted on the bus after July 31.

Note: If you already have a TransLink card, it still will work just the same.

Getting a Clipper (TransLink) Youth card
You will need to bring proof-of-age documentation--a birth certificate, passport, military dependent card, or alien registration card.

• Pre-register to attend an outreach event.

OR

• Visit the AC Transit Ticket Office at 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, with the pre-registration form (or fill out the form at the ticket office) and bring documentation as outlined above- Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., except holidays, and also from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on these Saturdays: May 22, June 26, July 24, and August 28. Your card will be mailed to you within 14 days.

You can get many of your questions answered here. If you need additional information, you can send an e-mail to customerservices@actransit.org or call 511 (and say, "AC Transit").

Link to full details about Clipper/Translink and Youth tickets, including information about:

Elimination of Youth 31-Day paper tickets
Exchanging unused paper Youth 31-Day tickets
Exchanging partially used Youth 31-Day paper tickets

Ticket Exchange Form

CONTACT YOUR SENATOR - URGE SUPPORT OF THE TRANSPORTATION PRESERVATION ACT OF 2010

2010-06-02T14:44:00.000-07:00

***RIDER ALERT***
CONTACT YOUR SENATOR

Dear Transit Rider:

Senator Chris Dodd, Chairman of the Senate Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Committee, has introduced emergency legislation with a number of his Senate colleagues to authorize $2.0 billion in emergency operating assistance for transit. This bill would distribute funds made available to help restore and prevent service reductions and layoffs, or fare increases due to decreased state and local funding through September 30, 2011.

Please voice your support of this bill which would help ensure that AC Transit’s riders can continue to have public transportation service to access work, school medical care and other vital services in our operating area.

CONTACT your Senator today!
A phone call is the most effective, but an e-mail or faxed letter is good too.

Senator Barbara Boxer
CALL: (202) 224-3553 (Washington, DC) or (415) 403-0100 (San Francisco)
FAX: 202-254-0454
E-mail via the web form on http://boxer.senate.gov/en/contact

Senator Dianne Feinstein
CALL: (202) 224-3841 (Washington, DC) or (415) 393-0707 (San Francisco)
FAX: (202) 228-3954
E-mail via the web form on http://feinstein.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=ContactUs.Home

Here’s a sample script:
“My name is _______ and I live in _______. I’m calling to urge Senator______ to support S3412: The Public Transportation Preservation Act of 2010 introduced by Senator Dodd. I rely on (my community relies on) public transit and cannot accept further cuts to service. Please support S3412, the emergency transit funding authorization bill. (Note: you will usually be asked to provide your zipcode).

Read Senator Dodd’s Press Release :
Senator Dodd Introduces Emergency Transit Funding Authorization Bill

THANK YOU FOR SUPPORTING PUBLIC TRANSIT

Youth 31-day Passes Moving to Translink Only!

2010-05-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

This summer, AC Transit takes another step in its transition from paper tickets to Clipper - previously known as TransLink, the regional all-in-one transit card. Starting July 1, Youth 31-Day passes will be available only on personalized Clipper (TransLink) Youth cards. Sales of paper (magnetic-strip) Youth 31-Day tickets will end on June 30, and the tickets will not be accepted on the bus after July 31.

If you currently use Youth 31-Day paper tickets, here's how to make the transition to TransLink.

Take the Car-free challenge

2010-05-16T14:51:00.000-07:00

Transform created a video to show the Best Wedding Exit ever...on an AC Transit bus.

Sign-up to take the car-free challenge.

AC Transit to declare fiscal emergency, reduce service, seeking public input

2010-05-12T15:42:00.000-07:00

AC Transit will hold public hearings May 26 on the agency’s intention to declare a fiscal emergency and the proposed Service Reductions Plan for August 2010. The hearings will be held together at both 2 p.m. and 6 p.m...

In late March, AC Transit implemented a 7.7 percent reduction in service hours, for annual savings of approximately $10.3 million. Despite this action, along with ongoing, aggressive pursuit and implementation of cost savings in every area of the agency, AC Transit is confronting an estimated $56 million deficit in the coming fiscal year ending June 2011.

Declining revenues from traditional sources, including sales and property tax, and state transit funding, continue to hamper the agency's ability to maintain bus service at its current level.

Proposed Service Reductions Plan
Staff estimates that an additional $11.4 million in service cuts is now necessary to help contain costs and balance the budget. Achieving these savings will mean an 8.4 percent service reduction. Staff has developed a set of scenarios for consideration by the public and the Board of Directors.
The final reductions plan could include some or all of the changes from one or more of the three scenarios below.

Operate only trunk and major corridor services on the weekends.
Modify All Nighter or late-night services.
Distribute reductions across weekday, late-night, and weekend services.

Following the close of the public hearings, the Board of Directors may decide to make its determinations that evening or at a subsequent meeting. The Board may choose to accept, modify, reject, or defer each of the proposed service changes. The adopted service changes will likely be implemented in August 2010
How to Comment
Individuals, organizations, and agencies may submit comments on the proposed declaration of fiscal emergency and the proposed Service Reductions Plan in a number of ways:

Speak at the public hearings
Submit written comments, which must be received by 12:00 noon, Monday, May 24
- by mail to AC Transit Board of Directors, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612
- by fax to (510) 891-4874
- by e-mail to planning@actransit.org
- by online comment form
Leave comments in a voicemail message by 12:00 noon, Monday, May 24, by calling (510) 891-4854

More information available on www.actransit.org.

AC Transit supports Bike to Work Day

2010-05-12T14:45:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, May 13, thousands of people throughout the Bay Area will leave their car keys at home and pedal to work, school, or appointments. It is the region's 16th annual Bike to Work Day and is part of Bike Month, celebrated annually throughout May.

AC Transit will participate in the City of Oakland's Bike to Work Day event on May 13 from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. at downtown Oakland's Energizer Station in Frank Ogawa Plaza where there will be free pancakes, prizes, and valet bike parking for the day.

See more photos from the 2009 Bike to Work Day in Oakland.

We're encouraging AC Transit passengers to bike -- or bike and take the bus -- to the event! Participants will be able to load their own bike on the front rack of an AC Transit bus and receive two free AC Transit 1-ride tickets just for trying it out!

Throughout the region, dozens of events taking place during the month of May are designed to get people excited about bicycling and its benefits to public health, traffic reduction, and the environment. Check out other Bike to Work Day activities around the Bay Area.

AC Transit facing possible fiscal emergency

2010-05-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Faced with rising costs and dwindling financial resources, the AC Transit Board of Directors has called for public hearings on May 26, 2010, as a prelude to possibly declaring a "fiscal emergency." A declared "fiscal emergency" would provide the District with the ability to make ongoing adjustments in service and operations to counter what is projected to be a debilitating financial crisis.

The May 26th public hearings will be held at 2pm and 6pm in the Second Floor Board Room at AC Transit's offices, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland.

Based on the forecasted economic environment over the next two years, the District is expected to realize a significant shortfall in working capital. Along with rising costs, there has been a steady decline in funding from traditional sources, including local sales and property taxes as well as state subsidies.

The decline in resources and the anticipated ongoing erosion of the local economy will cause the District to deplete its financial reserves, leaving a shortfall in "net working capital" of $4.132 million during the next fiscal year (2010-2011.) Although other financial resources are being pursued, the operating deficit is expected to worsen by the end of fiscal year 2011, ballooning to more than $56 million.

If a fiscal emergency is declared it will be the second consecutive year the District has been forced to do such. To help cope with the loss of revenues and the lingering economic downturn, AC Transit has already:

Adopted a fare increase, effective July 1, 2009
Scrutinized all expenditures and eliminated all but those deemed to be essential
Instituted a hiring freeze for all positions unless critical to maintaining operations
Mandated staff to achieve operating/service efficiencies of 15 percent of the budget
Instituted service adjustments that have reduced operational bus hours by 8.4 percent as of March 28, 2010.

Suggestions are invited either in writing or at the public hearings. The public is urged to submit written suggestions by letter, facsimile, or e-mail until the close of the public hearings on May 26, 2010.

Written suggestions also may be submitted up to the close of the hearings. Address written suggestions to AC Transit, Board of Directors, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612, send it by facsimile to 510-891-7157 or send it by e-mail to districtsecretaryactransit.org. For voicemail messages call (510) 891-4868.

The meeting site is wheelchair accessible. Upon request, a sign language interpreter will be present at the hearing. Also foreign language interpreters can be provided, if needed. Please contact the District Secretary's Office at (510) 891-4851, by noon, Friday, May 21, 2010, to make arrangements. Hearing-impaired only, call: TDD-ONLY 1 800 448-9790.

Please do not wear scented products to the public hearings.

Oakland City Council endorses BRT

2010-04-21T13:52:00.000-07:00

Photo: Flickr user RideACT

A week after the its Public Works Committee approved the idea, the Oakland City Council voted on April 20 to support AC Transit’s proposed Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) that would bring high speed bus service to the area.

"Our local leaders in Oakland have really stepped up to support this innovative and cost-effective project, which is now one step closer to benefiting the region."
Rocky Fernandez
AC Transit President

“This has been an exciting week for Bus Rapid Transit, which we believe will speed up travel times, stimulate local jobs, and help the environment by reducing pollution and the need to drive,” said Rocky Fernandez, President of the AC Transit Board of Directors. “Our local leaders in Oakland have really stepped up to support this innovative and cost-effective project, which is now one step closer to benefiting the region.”

The Oakland portion of the BRT route would be the longest and most highly-traveled of the 17-mile stretch from San Leandro, through Oakland and ending in Berkeley. The cities of Berkeley and San Leandro are expected to rule on their portion of the project soon.

"Last night’s vote at the Oakland City Council Meeting shows that AC Transit has effectively listened to the community and come up with a plan that really works for Oakland," said Clarence Johnson, spokesman for AC Transit. "Oakland’s community leaders understand that BRT is good for local traffic concerns, businesses and the environment."

BRT could be up and running as soon as 2013, and fully implemented in 2015.

Nile Canyon Historic bus tours

2010-04-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

Beginning April 18, the Pacific Locomotive Association will utilize the AC Transit Line 215 bus stop at Fremont BART to load and unload passengers for educational tours.

Photo: Flickr user Mr. History

Every first and third Sunday through August, a shuttle using two fully restored vintage 1950's GMC "old look" buses will make trips from Fremont BART to local historical sites.

The history GM "old look" styled buses were used by AC Transit's predecessor, the Key System.

The iconic buses are often associated with the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The segregated bus that Rosa Parks sat down on is currently at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit.

The program is part of the Niles Canyon Railway program. The hours of the Sunday shuttle will be from approximately 10 a.m. to 4 p.m..

Public Hearing on Paratransit fare changes

2010-04-09T11:00:00.001-07:00

AC Transit and BART will hold two public hearings in April to alter paratransit fares and two rider policies. The two transit agencies partner to operate the East Bay Paratransit Consortium.

PUBLIC HEARINGS
April 14, 2010
12:30 pm to 1:30 pm
AC Transit General Offices
2nd Floor Board Room
1600 Franklin Street, Oakland
April 22, 2010
9:00 am
BART Board Room, 3rd Floor
Kaiser Center 20th Street Mall
344 20th Street, Oakland

The Consortium will consider an increase in the ADA paratransit fares, plus two policy changes: billing for rider fault no-shows and doubling the fare paid for non-ADA group trips. This public hearing is to accept public comment on the proposed fare changes.

AC Transit and BART face significant financial deficits and have made a number of difficult choices to increase revenue and decrease costs on the fixed route side; however, it is incumbent upon the two transit agencies to look for all ways to reduce costs and increase revenues with the ADA paratransit program also.

East Bay Paratransit fares have remained unchanged since January 2005. Rider fault no-shows waste valuable resources and cost the ADA system the expense of a ride. Group trip service is a premium service and participants can be charged more than an ADA fare.

If approved, the Boards of Directors are targeting an implementation date after July 1st, 2010.

For fare proposal specifics, visit ACTransit.org. The complete policy changes are available at EastBayParatransit.org.

Public input wanted on proposed Alameda County Vehicle Registration Fee

2010-03-29T13:45:00.000-07:00

Public Hearings:
Wednesday, March 31
6:30 p.m.
Fremont Library
2450 Stevenson Boulevard
Fremont

Thursday, April 15
6:30 p.m.
Oakland City Hall, Hearing Room 3
1 Frank Ogawa Plaza
(14th Street, between Broadway and Clay Street)

The Alameda County Congestion Management Agency (ACCMA) is considering the placement of a measure on the November 2 ballot for a $10 Vehicle Registration Fee. The proceeds from the fee would be used for local transportation and public transit improvements throughout Alameda County.

The fee would generate up to $11 million a year.

The ACCMA is seeking broad public input in the development of the "expenditure plan," which will detail how the funds can be spent.

There are three ways the public can provide input:

Attend a public hearing (dates on right)
Attend a presentation at city council or other local agency meetings.
Submit comments online

Transit could benefit from the measure, and the bus-riding community and its supporters are encouraged to make their needs and interests known at this time.

For more information on the proposed VRF and ways to get involved, visit www.alamedacountyvrf.org.

AC Transit Deputy General Manager Jim Gleich dies

2010-03-10T09:51:00.000-08:00

AC Transit Deputy General Manager, Jim Gleich, a dedicated transit official with a dry sense of humor and a “get-the-job-done” style, died suddenly Sunday from undisclosed causes. Mr. Gleich was 66 years old.

With an already long and impressive background in community affairs, Mr. Gleich joined AC Transit in 1994, as an Employment/Accessibility Specialist.

He rose quickly through the ranks, becoming an Assistant General Manger in 1997 before being promoted again in 1999 to Deputy General Manager for External Affairs. During much of his tenure at AC Transit, Mr. Gleich was the District’s representative to the California Transit Association and was currently serving as a member of the its executive committee.

"It's like losing a big brother for me and the entire AC Transit family," said AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King. “Jim cared about the people we serve particularly those who are most dependent upon our service. I think he spent his entire career learning the ins and outs of government and public transit in order to make sure those on the outside could get in. I will miss him.”

It's like losing a big brother for me and the entire AC Transit family. Jim cared about the people we serve particularly those who are most dependent upon our service. I think he spent his entire career learning the ins and outs of government and public transit in order to make sure those on the outside could get in. I will miss him."
Mary King

As Deputy General Manager, Mr. Gleich was involved with all aspects of the day to day operations at AC Transit. But he primarily worked to establish and maintain liaisons and/or partnerships with customers, business leaders and community advocates as well as local, regional, state and federal officials, both elected and appointed.

Prior to AC Transit, Mr. Gleich’s work history in public service included more than 30 years as an executive with state and federal government agencies. He was the chief executive officer of public agencies in both Massachusetts and South Dakota; and served as an executive staff member for the United States Senate.

Mr. Gleich also was the former Executive Director of the Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund, and served on the boards of directors for the Pine Ridge Education/Action Project; Berkeley/Oakland Jobs for the Homeless Consortium; and the Massachusetts Halfway Houses Corporation. He was a member of the Hearing Panel for the National Citizens Review Commission on the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

Mr. Gleich also did volunteer work at San Quentin. But perhaps nothing thrilled him more than being appointed Principal-For-A-Day at Howard Elementary School in East Oakland where he returned repeatedly to read to the children.

AC Transit Service Change Information Tables in Your Community

2010-03-08T12:45:00.000-08:00

Photo: Flickr user pbo31

To help you plan ahead for the March 28 service changes, AC Transit will hold Community Information Tables at locations throughout the service area. AC Transit staff will be on hand to answer questions and provide materials such as new bus maps and schedules.

For more information, visit ACTransit.org.

Celebrating AC Transit's 50th Anniversary

2010-02-19T12:03:00.000-08:00

In October 1960, the first AC Transit buses rolled out on East Bay streets and across the Bay Bridge. Billions of passengers and miles later, AC Transit begins the celebration of its 50th year with the unveiling of a multi-faceted and fascinating online resource of AC Transit historical materials.

Gathered, organized, and scanned with the help of dedicated local transit buffs, the new history pages include complete collections of the Transit Times newsletter and annual reports, as well as planning documents and marketing materials, photographs, and fare media. In the coming months, the pages will be augmented with system maps and photographs of each AC Transit bus type operated over the last 50 years.

By presenting these materials, AC Transit hopes to provide a valuable resource for researchers, journalists, students, and bus riders--old timers and newcomers alike--for whom AC Transit has been a big part of their lives.

Visit the new pages and enjoy the ride through AC Transit history!

Sunday Service on AC Transit for President's Day

2010-02-12T14:18:00.001-08:00

Photo Credit: DC Streets Blog

In observance of President's Day, on Monday, February 15, all AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on Sunday schedules. All AC Transit business offices will also be closed.

Be sure to visit ACTransit.org to check the Sunday schedules for your routes. Get service updates like this to your inbox by signing up for AC Transit's "eNews."

Help improve AC Transit Line 1R

2010-02-10T14:41:00.000-08:00

Hoping to improve the reliability and efficiency of service along one of the East Bay's longest, most heavily-commuted corridors, AC Transit will unveil a study of Line 1R Thursday, Feb. 25 at AC Transit's headquarters in downtown Oakland.

The Line 1R is a 17-mile route from UC Berkeley to the Bayfair BART in San Leandro.

If you go:
Line 1R Community Outreach Thursday, Feb. 25, 6-8 p.m. AC Transit Headquarters 1600 Franklin St, Oakland

The Line 1R Service and Reliability Study is a detailed analysis of performance and customers' concerns. The public's presence is encouraged to evaluate the study and offer ideas about how to make the service better.

The study was commissioned because Line 1R, which runs via Telegraph Avenue, International Boulevard, and East 14th Street, has been periodically viewed as inconsistent. Both passengers and bus operators have raised concerns about bus “bunching” and scheduling that can result in overcrowded and late-arriving buses.

Photo: Flickr user Greg Woodhouse

AC Transit is eager to hear the public's perspective both on the study itself and on ways to enhance the bus service. AC Transit Staff are eager to receive comments from 1R passengers regarding their thoughts on The Study and the recommendations made.

The study was begun in October 2008 after a task force of Oakland, Berkeley, San Leandro and AC Transit staff outlined its purpose and goals.

Among other things, the study was designed to help improve the line's reliability, overall efficiency and, ultimately, customer satisfaction.

The data-collection has been painstaking and thorough, and is now ready for public review. The community forum will consist of a brief staff presentation outlining the study's findings, followed by an exchange of comments, questions and answers between community members and AC Transit staff.

A similar study was conducted for Line 51 in 2009:
Attend an Open House for Line 51 Line 51 changes to reflect community input Line 51 changing 2009 Line 51 Service and Reliability Study (PDF)

The Public Comment period ends at 5:00 p.m., March 24, 2010. AC Transit is eager to hear the public's perspective both on the study itself and on ways to enhance the bus service. AC Transit Staff are eager to receive comments from 1R passengers regarding their thoughts on The Study and the recommendations made in it.

The Community Outreach will be from 6:00-8:00p.m., Thursday, February 25th, at the AC Transit General Offices (1600 Franklin Street, Oakland).

Photo: Flickr user Eli the Bearded

For more information visit the Line 1R Service and Reliability Study on the Planning section of the AC Transit website, ACTransit.org.

AC Transit BRT to receive $15 million in federal funding

2010-02-08T16:43:00.000-08:00

AC Transit's Bus Rapid Transit project (BRT) will be awarded $15 million in federal funds -- the first time the transit agency has been singled out in the President's budget.

Possible Fruitvale BRT station in Oakland

The BRT funding would come from the Department of Transportation's New Starts and Small Starts Program, and marks a critical step toward receiving approval from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to proceed with AC Transit's East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) System.

The proposed alignment would traverse through Berkeley, Oakland and San Leandro along the Telegraph Avenue/International Boulevard/ East 14th Street corridor, and is designed to reduce commute times, smog and congestion in this very densely populated district.

“One of the things that gives me great delight in the President's bill is that it is a reinforcement of AC Transit's commitment to the BRT," said AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King. “At this point, this is the only way that federal money in large amounts will be flowing to transit projects. We believe the BRT is one of the best ways to capture it.”

'Certainly, all of the advocates-- who have been so diligent about making the BRT project the best it can be—should be commended for their hard work to ensure that AC Transit stays at the forefront of the federal funding agenda.'
Interim GM Mary King

More than a one-time gesture, the $15 million grant is indicative of the federal commitment to the BRT, hailed worldwide as the low-cost, environmentally-friendly future of urban mass transit. Indeed, the grant is expected to be merely the first of several annual subsidies to maintain the project's viability.

Possible BRT station at 11th and Harrison St in downtown Oakland

"Certainly, all of the advocates-- who have been so diligent about making the BRT project the best it can be—should be commended for their hard work to ensure that AC Transit stays at the forefront of the federal funding agenda," King said.

Also, for its ongoing support of AC Transit, the California legislative delegation is owed a debt of gratitude, especially Congresswoman Barbara Lee and Senator Dianne Feinstein for their longtime dedication to the BRT project, King said.

Learn more about AC Transit's Proposed BRT Project at www.actforme.org. You can also check out photo simulations of possible BRT stations and destinations on the AC Transit Flickr page, or watch a 3-D East Bay BRT video on the AC Transit You Tube Page.

AC Transit to stream Board meetings

2010-02-05T16:29:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been to an AC Transit Board of Directors meeting? Some people really like to go.

Starting Wednesday, Feb. 10, the AC Transit Board of Directors will stream live audio of all of its meetings, including Standing Committees, via the AC Transit website.

AC Transit hopes to enhance public access to AC Transit affairs by streaming. Residents interested in using this new service may visit the AC Transit website, ACTransit.org, click on "Public Meetings/Live Audio" and then click again on "Live and Archived Audio". The meetings will be listed by date.

Happy Birthday Rosa Parks

2010-02-04T12:29:00.000-08:00

Rosa Parks riding a Montgomery, Ala., bus in December 1956, after the Supreme Court outlawed segregation on buses.
Photo: RosaParks.com

"She wasn’t the first to challenge segregation laws, but this time was different. Parks’ resistance spread through a community that was tired of enduring years of insult and humiliation."
Smithsonian

Rosa Parks, the late civil rights icon, would be 97 years old today.

In 1955, Parks refused to give up her seat for a white bus rider in Montgomery, Ala., sparking the Montgomery Bus Boycott. The boycott lasted for 381 days.

The Smithsonian Institute's 381 Days: The Montgomery Bus Boycott Story said, "She wasn’t the first to challenge segregation laws, but this time was different. Parks’ resistance spread through a community that was tired of enduring years of insult and humiliation."

For more than a year, in the face of violence and intimidation, 50,000 black citizens forced a segregated bus system to open its doors to equality."

This eventually led up to the Supreme Court ruling that racial segregation of buses as unconstitutional.

In 2005, Oakland elementary students honored Rosa Parks.

Photo: Flickr user: Mr. History

The Montgomery bus that Parks rode on Dec. 1, 1955 is above. The GM "old look" bus is identical to the buses used by AC Transit's predecessor, the Key System. The above bus is currently at the Henry Ford Museum in Detroit, Mi, where Parks passed away five years ago.

AC Transit is committed to serving all people, and wishes Rosa Parks Happy Birthday.

Congresswoman Barbara Lee leads AC Transit bus tour

2010-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

Congresswoman Barbara Lee on an AC Transit Zero-Emissions Fuel Cell bus at the Oakland Museum.

Congresswoman Barbara Lee held a tour throughout her Ninth Congressional District aboard an AC Transit bus. The tour highlighted local agencies and organizations that received stimulus and/or Appropriations funding.

Lee is a member of the Appropriations Committee, as well as Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

The tour was conducted on a zero-emissions hydrogen fuel cell bus. Three hydrogen fuel cell buses were purchased with federal funding the Congresswoman helped secure.

AC Transit Fuel Cell bus leaving Oakland Museum, near Laney College, heading to first destination on East Bay tour.

Coincidently, during the tour, Rep. Lee was informed by the Federal Department of Transportation (FTA) that President Obama’s proposed budget, released earlier today, includes $15 million in DOT funds for AC Transit’s Bus Rapid Transit Project.

This represents BRT’s first formal inclusion in the federal appropriations process.

Stay dry with NextBus

2010-01-22T13:23:00.000-08:00

Photo: Daily Image on OaklandLocal.com
This woman at 12th and Broadway uses a street pole to shield her (and her umbrella) from the wind and the rain.*

Don't get stuck waiting for the bus in the rain, use NextBus.com.

Use NextBus on AC Transit to get real-time bus arrival information on your cell phone, computer, and at select bus stops.

*This woman is not waiting for the bus.

Sunday service on Martin Luther King Day

2010-01-15T14:13:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Sodahead

In observance of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s birthday, on Monday, January 18, all AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on Sunday schedules. All AC Transit business offices will also be closed.

Be sure to visit ACTransit.org to check the Sunday schedules for your routes. Get service updates like this to your inbox by signing up for AC Transit's "eNews."

State budget 'takes California out of the public transit business', transit agency says

2010-01-12T10:10:00.000-08:00

Advocates fight to keep funding for vital transit services

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger has designed an elaborate scheme to circumvent rulings that outlawed the continuous raid of transit funds by the state, according to transit advocates and agencies.

Photo: Flickr user Miriam Godet

Schwarzenegger's final budget, announced last week, again takes vital funding transportation funds, causing some to ask if the "Green Governor" in fact hates public transit?

The California Transit Association filed a lawsuit against the state following raids in the 2007-08 state budget. The Third District Court of Appeals ruled that raiding the Public Transportation Account (PTA) to pay for non-transit deficits in the General Fund was unconstitutional. The administration appealed the ruling to the State Supreme court, which then upheld the lower courts ruling.

"What about the thousands of families who depend on public transit to get to work or to go out and buy food to put on their tables, the kids who need transit to get to school, or the elderly and disabled persons who rely on transit to access medical services?"
CTA Executive Director Joshua Shaw

CTA Executive Director Joshua Shaw suggested the Governor "offers shell games instead of solutions, and transit riders in California again suffer the consequences."

“The Governor wants to disguise this as some sort of tax relief for families," Shaw said. "What about the thousands of families who depend on public transit to get to work or to go out and buy food to put on their tables, the kids who need transit to get to school, or the elderly and disabled persons who rely on transit to access medical services?"

"I guess they don’t count," Shaw added.

In a press release, the California Transit Association" writes:

Rather than comply with the courts, Schwarzenegger’s plan would eliminate the sales tax on gasoline and diesel fuels and replace a portion of that revenue source with an increase in the excise tax on fuels, none of which would be allocated to transit. Instead of diverting money from the PTA, the proposal would remove the funding stream that is supposed to flow into the PTA in the first place, effectively eliminating state funding for transit.

It is still unclear when and how the transit funds taken by the state will be repaid, but the CTA is not waiting. A ballot measure is currently being circulated to prevent future raids on transit funds, as well as money from local governments.

Photo: Flickr user Public Advocates

Across the state, the ballot measure is picking up steam.

AC Transit Deputy General Manager Jim Gleich told the San Mateo County Times

"The budget filed this past week is literally immoral," he said. "It takes California out of the public transit business."

The continuous raiding of transit funding led to AC Transit declaring a "fiscal emergency" last summer, followed by fare increases. After two series of community input workshops, AC Transit's Board voted to reduce service, effective this March.

Transbay Taskforce Meeting this Tuesday

2010-01-11T13:32:00.000-08:00

The first AC Transit Transbay Taskforce meeting of the new decade is tomorrow, Tuesday, January 12 from Noon to 1:00 p.m. in downtown San Francisco.

Discussions will include the new ticket vending machines (TVMs) being installed at the San Francisco Temporary Terminal and other finer details of the passenger experience.

Even if you can't make it, check out the updated calendar of 2010 meetings. Here's a recap of the December 2009 meeting where riders set the Transbay Taskforce 2010 agenda.

You can always get updates about Transbay Service on ACTransit.org or by signing up for e-news, AC Transit's email notification service.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (1/8/2010)

2010-01-08T18:26:00.000-08:00

The Sights and Sounds of AC Transit is back; sharing your tales and mini-AC Transit Diaries.

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, January 8, 2010
is on a bus ride from the Twilight Zone. This says a lot since she lives in Oakland and is huge fan of the Twilight Zone.
http://twitter.com/randiervin/statuses/7525720746

Thursday, January 7, 2010
man i saw a dude in sum shorts and a hoodie standin at the bus stop and it was hella cold and windy
http://twitter.com/HartBreaKidd/statuses/7487592124

Wednesday, January 6, 2010
I got on the bus to wrk today and the driver said tht " I got that famous look" I smiled said thnk you,...and I hope it sticks haha
http://twitter.com/btownboi510/statuses/7446194300

Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Kid brother misunderstood and threw away my return trip ticket for Chinatown bus. Bummer.
http://twitter.com/qianian/statuses/7415245605

Monday, January 4, 2010
Ac transit smells like cookies
http://twitter.com/martiantim/statuses/7389306137

"the only way to survive is to see the similarities and not the differences" - lady at bus stop
http://twitter.com/JackShephard71/status/7377041935

Sunday, January 3, 2010
the bus 57 LOL, i didnt drive to work today! so i got on that g-thang
http://twitter.com/Markeise/statuses/7357795677

Saturday, January 2, 2010
While I was eating breakfast at a restauant, i saw an advertisement of my school on the AC transit. Lol ! woow
http://twitter.com/SelamSebhatu/statuses/7310944523

Above photo, "Midnight," by Flickr user Emamd.

Advocates for senior, disabled bus riders wanted

2010-01-06T09:02:00.000-08:00

Credit: Flickr user Susan Decker

Board criteria:
Bring to the group diverse views and/or knowledge Show a willingness and openness to listen to the views and interests of others; Have direct experience using AC Transit service Have a commitment to participate in the committee process and are willing to devote approximately three hours a month to attend regular meetings of the committee as well as preparing for those meetings; and Have a commitment to participate in one or more AAC subcommittees which usually meet once or twice a month for approximately two to three hours

Board criteria:

Bring to the group diverse views and/or knowledge
Show a willingness and openness to listen to the views and interests of others;
Have direct experience using AC Transit service
Have a commitment to participate in the committee process and are willing to devote approximately three hours a month to attend regular meetings of the committee as well as preparing for those meetings; and
Have a commitment to participate in one or more AAC subcommittees which usually meet once or twice a month for approximately two to three hours

To ensure that its transit services are used and easily obtainable by all members of the public, AC Transit is seeking volunteers to fill vacancies on its Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC). Input from advocates for seniors and bus riders with disabilities is wanted.

The 14 member AAC typically meets the second Tuesday of the month to address concerns about—and implement and enhance—AC Transit’s programs and services as related to seniors and people with disabilities. The committee was established specifically to review policies and procedures, as well as comment and advise the District and its seven-member Board of Directors on all matters related to bus accessibility.

Citizens appointed to serve on the committee shall serve a term of one (1) year beginning March 1, 2010. In an effort to maintain a diversified panel representative of people who are seniors, people with varying disabilities and of diverse ethnic backgrounds, two committee members will be appointed by each Director.

Preferred applicants should have some experience using AC Transit services. Along with identifying problems and offering probable solutions and ideas, they should also have respect for others, be open to hearing divergent points of view, be able to attend meetings, and commit up to six (6) hours a month to committee-related work.

Applications are available on AC Transit's Scribd account, and can be obtained from and returned to the District Secretary’s Office, located at 1600 Franklin Street, 10th Floor, Oakland, CA 94612 or by calling (510) 891-7284. Completed applications also can be faxed to: (510) 891- 4705. All applications must be returned to the District Secretary by February 5, 2010.

Oakland to host Bus Rapid Transit meetings

2010-01-04T11:26:00.000-08:00

AC Transit is exploring the development of a Bus Rapid Transit, a state-of-the-art transit system that will connect Berkeley, Oakland and San Leandro. We need your input!

Oakland BRT Meetings

Fruitvale Neighborhood Meeting
Monday, January 11th
6-8PM
Fruitvale Senior Center
3301 East 12th St., Ste. 201
Oakland, CA 94601
Eastlake Neighborhood Meeting
Tuesday, January 12
6-8PM
Eastside Arts Alliance
2277 International Boulevard
Oakland, CA 94606
East Oakland Neighborhood Meeting
Thursday, January 21
6-8PM
East Oakland Youth Development Center
8200 International Blvd. Oakland, CA 94621
Temescal Neighborhood Meeting
Tuesday, January 26
6-8PM
Faith Presbyterian Church
430 49th St.
Oakland, CA 94609
Downtown Area and Oakland Meeting
Wednesday, January 27
11-1 PM (Hearing Room 2)
5-7 PM (Hearing Room 4)
Oakland City Hall
1 Frank Ogawa Plaza (Broadway and 14th St.)
Oakland, CA 94612
East Oakland
Thursday, January 28
6-8 PM
St. Louis Bertrant Church
1410 100th Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612

In January, The City of Oakland will hold seven community Meetings on East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in Oakland.

Learn about the proposed East Bay BRT project:

See how the plan has changed with public feedback
Learn how BRT would work in Oakland
Review AC Transit's plan to preserve local service
Offer your feedback on the plan prior to city council consideration

AC Transit is required to ask the three cities through which Bus Rapid Transit passes how they want to see BRT pass through their cities. This allows Oakland to choose the best design of the streets, stations, and other decisions to benefit Oakland and its residents. AC Transit will be required to consider the Locally Preferred Alternative when it votes on how to build BRT.

Oakland is preparing its recommendation for a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system running through the heart of the East Bay from San Leandro through Oakland to Berkeley. Throughout the month of January we will be seeking the input of Oakland residents on what they want to see from the Bus Rapid Transit program and how they want this new service to run through their communities.

This process will culminate in the submittal of Oakland's Locally Preferred Alternative to AC Transit to be included in the range of options when the BRT system is built.

For more information about the East Bay Bus Rapid Transit project, visit ACTforMe.org or check out our East Bay BRT videos on You Tube.

Buses running on Sunday schedule on New Year's

2009-12-31T10:28:00.000-08:00

In observance of New Year's Day, on Friday, January 1, all AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on Sunday schedules. All AC Transit business offices will also be closed.

Be sure to visit ACTransit.org to check the Sunday schedules for your routes. Get service updates like this to your inbox by signing up for AC Transit's "eNews."

Have a safe and prosperous New Year!

Photo Credit: Flickr User GreenKozi

What types of AC Transit notifications are important to you?

2009-12-29T15:34:00.000-08:00

AC Transit needs your help improving "e-news." E-news is an email news service that allows us to send information that interests you, including individual bus lines.

We're hosting a poll on our blog to see what is most important to our riders. We plan to take your feedback to improve our service, and your experience.

Visit our blog (survey is on the top-right) and tell us what type of email notifications are important to you. Sign-up for e-news at AC Transit.org.

Photo Credit: Inmagine.

Buses running on Sunday schedule on Christmas

2009-12-24T17:40:00.000-08:00

In observance of Christmas, on Friday, December 26, all AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on Sunday schedules.

Be sure to visit ACTransit.org to check the Sunday schedules for your routes.

All AC Transit business offices will also be closed.

To get service updates like this via email, sign up for AC Transit's "eNews."

Photos: Top, AC Transit Mini Bus at AC Transit General Offices; left, Christmas tree at AC Transit Ticket Offices in Downtown Oakland.

Holiday Greeting from AC Transit

2009-12-23T17:53:00.000-08:00

AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King Holiday Greeting

AC Transit Interim General Manager Mary King gives Holiday Greeting on behalf of the AC Transit family.

Happy Holidays!

MTC seeks policy advisers

2009-12-22T11:56:00.000-08:00

Twenty-seven individuals wanted to represent economic and environmental perspectives, communities of color and environmental justice, and concerns of seniors and people with disabilities

If you've been longing for a chance to help form regional transporation policy, the Metropolitan Transportation Commission wants you.

Photo Credit: Urban Habitat

MTC is recruiting for 27 individuals to jump into the transportation arena, learn about the complexities of funding, and help identify the connections between transportation and land use, air quality and climate change. MTC is the Bay Area's transportation planning and financing agency, and there may be a place for you as part of a new Policy Advisory Council slated to begin meeting in April 2010.

"This new Council will give a voice to a range of viewpoints to enhance our decision-making process. I encourage anyone interested in helping us improve Bay Area mobility to apply for a seat."
MTC Chair Scott Haggerty

The mission of the new citizen panel will be to advise MTC on transportation policies in the San Francisco Bay Area, incorporating diverse perspectives relating to the environment, the economy and social equity. Advisors are eligible for a stipend to cover cost of meeting attendance.

Some of the issues that this new panel might be asked to advise on include:

Regional planning efforts linking transportation, housing and land use plans to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
A Bay Area effort to identify public transit service productivity improvements that squeeze more efficiency from the region's existing transit investments, and pursue new revenues to build a system that could better serve all Bay Area residents.

"MTC must make transportation policy and investment decisions that serve all Bay Area residents," said MTC Chair Scott Haggerty. "This new Council will give a voice to a range of viewpoints to enhance our decision-making process. I encourage anyone interested in helping us improve Bay Area mobility to apply for a seat."

A total of nine members will be appointed to represent economic and environmental perspectives, nine members will represent communities of color and issues affecting low income communities or environmental justice, and nine members will represent the interests of seniors or persons with disabilities.

Policy Advisory Council membership will be structured around the economy, the environment and social equity. A total of nine members will be appointed to represent economic and environmental perspectives, nine members will represent communities of color and issues affecting low income communities or environmental justice, and nine members will represent the interests of seniors or persons with disabilities.

To apply for a position, or to learn more about the new Policy Advisory Council, visit MTC.

The application deadline is Monday, February 1, 2010. No specific educational background is needed for most seats, just an interest in transportation and how it affects residents in each of the nine Bay Area counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano and Sonoma). Experience in working on public policy issues or community-related issues is desirable.

The new Policy Advisory Council, created by the Commission in November 2009, will effectively merge MTC's three separate advisory committees - the MTC Advisory Council, the Elderly and Disabled Advisory Committee, and the Minority Citizens Advisory Committee. These three advisory committees will sunset with the formation of the Policy Advisory Council.

Committee members are expected to attend monthly meetings held on Wednesday afternoons at MTC's offices in Oakland, and to serve a two-year term. While positions are voluntary, committee members do receive a stipend for their attendance at certain meetings.

The new Policy Advisory Council, created by the Commission in November 2009, will effectively merge MTC's three separate advisory committees - the MTC Advisory Council, the Elderly and Disabled Advisory Committee, and the Minority Citizens Advisory Committee. These three advisory committees will sunset with the formation of the Policy Advisory Council.

MTC's governing board of commissioners will review all applications and make final appointments to the advisory committees. For more information or to obtain an application, call (510) 817-5757, go to MTC's Web site or visit the MTC offices at 101 Eighth Street, Oakland, during regular business hours.

MTC is the regional transportation planning, financing and coordinating agency for the nine-county San Francisco Bay Area.

AC Transit Board streamlines service

2009-12-18T16:00:00.000-08:00

After months of internal planning and extraordinary public outreach, the AC Transit Board of Directors announced that it will streamline bus services to help the agency offset a projected $57 million deficit next year.

By a unanimous vote, the seven-member panel adopted a plan that whittles the District's daily bus service by 8.4 percent. The new service adjustment plan will take effect in March 2010 and is expected to reduce the agency's spending by approximately $9.6 million a year.

The new service plan was meticulously crafted over a span of more than nine months and involved an unprecedented series of hearings and public forums specifically to elicit comments and suggestions from riders and community residents. In many instances, the public responses were incorporated to help shape what ultimately has become the adopted service plan.

It was an unusual public process that resulted in changes District-wide, from Richmond to Fremont. But while routes virtually everywhere will be overhauled, consolidated and, in some cases, minimized, no community will be without vital bus services.

However, because the route restructuring could result in longer waits for service, the Board also voted to extend the District's bus transfer policy—from 90 minutes to 120 minutes-- to allow passengers additional time to make their bus connections.

Along with the service adjustments, the District has had personnel lay-offs, imposed a hiring freeze, improved operating and departmental efficiencies by 15 percent, and raise fares to cope with the forecasted shortfall.

Maps and other details about the service adjustments will be available on ACTransit.org in January 2010.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (12/18/2009)

2009-12-18T12:47:00.000-08:00

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Transit Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, December 18, 2009
I'm on the bus heading to work, & my favorite bus driver is taking me there. He pronounces all the stops with a firm and loving tone. <3
http://twitter.com/starphotography/statuses/6804825227

Thursday, December 17, 2009
More people would use public transit if the buses could ram and push slow cars out of the way.
http://twitter.com/EntropyWorks/statuses/6782282969

I appreciate this "baby-faced black-clad cute person with a septum piercing" upgrade to my morning bus ride. Go, AC Transit!
http://twitter.com/arletterocks/statuses/6769537698

Running for the bus #isplayedout . Especially if you miss it
http://twitter.com/simplyshanae/statuses/6724150290

somehow, hearing the ac transit rumble by outside is soothing at times...that and the lonely train whistle and BART whirr...
http://twitter.com/matthewcj/statuses/6756139992

Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Two people have to stand on the bus tonight. At least this selfish woman's bags have a seat! http://yfrog.com/4giuoj
http://twitter.com/johnholland/statuses/6715726707

Monday, December 14, 2009
so I'm gettin on the bus right & this dude is like chocolate chocolate then I turn around he says I LOVE YOU! What how do you love someone
http://twitter.com/23_DAMNSEXY/statuses/6705049506

and im home. thank you for putting up with my tweets today. its the only way i stay sane on that bus.
http://twitter.com/hermajesty05/statuses/6650043137

I feel like I'm in a movie montage. On a bus looking out the window, grey skies, awesome Sounds song playing in my ears.
http://twitter.com/hermajesty05/statuses/6642179759

Aw my bus driver is nice. Yess. They make everything so much better.
http://twitter.com/hermajesty05/statuses/6637165701

Taking AC Transit to work today instead of BART, we'll see if this is worth saving at least $2 a day
http://twitter.com/guapomole/statuses/6663891160

Sunday, December 13, 2009
wish I was flying to ny thousands of feet about the air tweeting.instead I'm carrying a bunch of xmas stuff* home on AC transit
http://twitter.com/kreacjny/statuses/6614004031

Saturday, December 12, 2009
whyy someone gave my cuzzn a note on the bus, tryna spit game on the bus though.
http://twitter.com/IambelleXIX/statuses/6619768309

Waiting for the bus. First time in Oakland. Ever. Bored
http://twitter.com/jknight/statuses/6610446641

Friday, December 11, 2009
I'm closer to 40 than I was last year and I still pass for 17 on the bus and only pay $1. *shrugs*
http://twitter.com/majeeda/statuses/6589759198

Literally stopped in traffic. Phone picking up wifi from bus next to me.
http://twitter.com/jknight/statuses/6584632859

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo, AC Transit Director Chris Peeples in the AC Transit Mini-Bus at 2008 Children's Holiday Parade in Oakland, by Flickr user VSmoothe.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart

2009-12-17T11:07:00.000-08:00

Our friends at Santa Rosa City Bus blog pointed out that U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood was on the Daily Show with Jon Stewart Tuesday.

You may recall a few months ago AC Transit being awarded stimulus funding for solar power expansion. LaHood said, "AC Transit is showing how investing in green transportation not only helps the planet and strengthens our economy, but also creates jobs here in the Bay Area."

The Daily Show With Jon Stewart

Mon - Thurs 11p / 10c

Ray LaHood

http://www.thedailyshow.com/

Daily Show
Full Episodes

Political Humor

Health Care Crisis

Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood on the Daily Show

AC Transit is a bus only agency, but we have rail in our roots and know that investment in transportation is good for our community.

If you are interested in transit, LaHood’s blog, "Fastlane", is a great resource. You can also follow Ray Lahood on Twitter.

AC Transit celebrates Commuter Appreciation Day in Oakland with KMEL

2009-12-17T09:00:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Flickr User ACTransit.org by KMEL.com

AC Transit celebrated Commuter Appreciation Day Thursday, December 10. Together Translink and radio station KMEL and Clear Channel, AC Transit staff handed out 200 Translink cards loaded with $5 each.
If you weren't able to get a free Translink card last week, you can also get a card:

Online at translink.org
At any Walgreen's or at other Translink retailers where you can use case, credit or vouchers
At AC Transit's Ticket Office at 1600 Franklin Street in Oakland

Youth Translink cards, for riders ages 6-18, will be available next spring.

Commuter Appreciation Day Photos on AC Transit's Flickr Page

Visit Translink.org for more information.

AC Transit Holiday Bus still rolling

2009-12-16T12:20:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: AC Transit

This week, the AC Transit Holiday bus is rolling through your neighborhood. From December 17-22, the Holiday Bus will be riding throughout East Oakland. it will move to Hayward on December 23-24.

Follow AC Transit on Twitter for daily updates on the whereabouts of the AC Transit Holiday Bus.

Board to vote on revised Service Adjustments Plan

2009-12-15T18:17:00.000-08:00

Map of current AC Transit service, by ModestMaps.com.

The AC Transit Board of Directors is scheduled to considered adopting the 2009 Revised Service Adjustments Plan (RevSAP) December 16.

Originally, 15 percent service cuts were presented to the AC Transit Board in June. In September, AC Transit hosted a series Community Workshops on the proposed Service Adjustments Plan (SAP). Over 5,000 comments on AC Transit were received from the public.

Later that month, the Board considered a proposal by the General Manager to shift Congestion Management and Air Quality (CMAQ) funds to operations, effectively restoring seven percent of the service and save AC Transit jobs. The Board Board voted to affirm the CMAQ shift in late October, as well as an update the RevSAP process, including one additional and final public workshop.

The Board's adoption of the RevSAP is contingent on the receipt of CMAQ funding, and the completion of a Title VI analysis. Any service changes adopted are scheduled to be implemented March 2010.

City of Alameda employees ride AC Transit free

2009-12-14T15:58:00.000-08:00

Retro Alameda, CA postcard courtesy of Jalopnik.com.

Earlier this year, AC Transit teamed up with the City of Alameda to make transportation easier for City employees.

Initially, the program was only available to full-time employees. Now, part-time employees are also included. The AC Transit EasyPass for the City of Alameda offers qualified employees an unlimited Translink bus pass that goes everywhere AC Transit serves – anytime, for free.

Get your EasyPass
Wednesday, Dec. 16 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. City Hall 2263 Santa Clara Ave., Alameda Thursday, Dec. 17 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Alameda Municipal Power 2000 Grand St., Alameda

Join us for photo registration on the bus Wednesday December 16 and Thursday, December 17. City of Alameda employees who already have an EasyPass can pick up a customized destination map for useful destinations for shopping, dining, leisure activities and more around Alameda.

Registration for EasyPass will take place at Alameda City Hall, 2263 Santa Clara Ave, December 16 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and at Alameda Municipal Power, 2000 Grand Street Thursday, December 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Refreshments will be available on the bus.

By the way, every employee who signs up for an EasyPass gets a free City of Alameda Eco Bag.

For more information email Public Works or call (510) 749-5840.

Want an EasyPass with your employer, college or residential neighborhood? Learn more about the AC Transit EasyPass at ACTransit.org.

Mills College students on board with EasyPass

2009-12-14T15:03:00.000-08:00

This fall, Mills College began offering AC Transit EasyPasses to undergraduate students. Full-time students are eligible to receive a semester long unlimited rides bus pass good on any AC Transit bus line.

The program has provided students with more travel options and opened up a whole new world of exploration.

"I used it to go home and get to school – to get to the city. I thought it was great to have a free way to get to the city."
Hannah Forsberg

Earlier this semester, The Campanil, the Mills College student newspaper, asked students, "Have you used your AC Transit pass?" The results are encouraging.

"I really like it," said Mills College senior Hannah Forsberg. "I used it to go home and get to school – to get to the city. I thought it was great to have a free way to get to the city."

"It was very convenient considering I didn’t have to take out money – since I already paid for it."
Amelia Vigil

When asked, Senior Amelia Vigil told the Campanil "I just got my AC transit pass today! Like literally five minutes ago. I haven’t had a chance to use it yet but I’m really excited to."

"Yes I have used it," responded sophomore Catheran Norman. "It was very convenient considering I didn’t have to take out money – since I already paid for it.

"And it fits nicely in my wallet," she added. "Overall, it was a good experience."

EasyPass was approved by Mills College last spring, following months of advocacy by students.

Mills College is one of three college programs offering the AC Transit EasyPass to students. The Class Pass, with UC Berkeley, began in 1999 and the EasyPass for the Peralta Colleges began fall 2008. Visit ACTransit.org for more information about EasyPass. You can always stay up-to-date with Mills College happenings with TheCampanil.com.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (12/11/2009)

2009-12-11T16:44:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: TMI, bus jokes, Robocop, baldies and warm buses.

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, December 11, 2009
Rider talking on cellphone on #actransit bus, loudly discussing medications for his erectile disfunction. Other riders just staring ahead.
http://twitter.com/stgeller4/statuses/6579946954

On the bus and overheard a joke-"Ever hear about the man who was illiterate in three languages?"
http://twitter.com/vivlahrs/statuses/6575274292

Thursday, December 10, 2009
#igrewupon takin the bus and the back of the bus used to be the interestin part of the day b4 school
http://twitter.com/jojo2much4u/statuses/6558997727

#igrewupon catchin the 40l 82l 57 an the 52 buses:)
http://twitter.com/waynebtv/statuses/6554526903

I feel like falcon punching the person who farted as they walked past me on this bus
http://twitter.com/ifeellike/statuses/6553216429

#igrewup getting on the bus going to Luckys for my granny
http://twitter.com/TheGoonette/statuses/6552358752

#igrewupon the 56 bus line!!!
http://twitter.com/TheRell510/statuses/6550923335

Cutie at the same bus stop :] http://twitpic.com/szpg0
http://twitter.com/jaymiengov/statuses/6550309528

Shocked that my WalkScore is only 85, I walk everywhere! The farthest thing is "transit" - only lists BART. Does it not count AC Transit?
http://twitter.com/shannontracey/statuses/6548077628

Well I had a delightful ride home on the transbay bus. I may break up with you Bart, for my commute!
http://twitter.com/luckylettuce/statuses/6524058334

Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Need a challenge? Play Labyrinth on a lurchy public transit bus.
http://twitter.com/raminf/statuses/6515906313

Dear Diary, field trip 2 Chabot Space Center w/son, 39 degrees, on the bus. NO COMPLAINTS I'm one of 2 Black Men here, got rep 4 the Dads.
http://twitter.com/MisterDrake/statuses/6502232677

yahtzee! just found the seat on the bus directly by the heat vent!
http://twitter.com/chawagner/statuses/6497842814

Tuesday, December 8, 2009
I never been so happy to see a bus in my life
http://twitter.com/SWEETtriniSOUL/statuses/6487205111

New aged art on ac transit http://twitpic.com/sr7jm
http://twitter.com/Cherilynna/statuses/6486950935

Defrosting on the bus...
http://twitter.com/beckyclai/statuses/6484495981

Wa sup to y folks @krysis7 we ducked wit that 94 bus daily back then
http://twitter.com/ReggieBoi/statuses/6480660017

Two baldies on the bus, it must be Tuesday. http://yfrog.com/4ipl7nj
http://twitter.com/starphotography/statuses/6474699248

ah heated bus I love you...
http://twitter.com/SaschaIllyvich/statuses/6474151864

Monday, December 7, 2009
oh man this #51 is nice and toasty #thankyou @rideACT
http://twitter.com/xkawai/statuses/6449046456

Whaaat!!!!! AC Transit busses got heaters????
http://twitter.com/KeliKel/statuses/6439097658

Saw a guy biking with what looked like a baby xmas tree strapped to his back while waiting for the bus. Ah berkeley!
http://twitter.com/natalietsang/statuses/6449648810

Somebody on tha bus smell like tuna fish
http://twitter.com/shuaniqua/statuses/6435852100

Taking the bus this late has its benefits - only 3 other riders. Feels like having a personal coach! Ooh, free & clear to the bus lane!
http://twitter.com/Neuroptik78/statuses/6435085680

30 degrees outside, a bazillion on the bus http://myloc.me/1WMuD
http://twitter.com/jasonmeltzer/statuses/6434527560

Sunday, December 6, 2009
Srsly, where the f is the bus?!
http://twitter.com/Whitney86/statuses/6420924900

Is sitting next to @joshuacstephens on the bus wishing this Internet would stream faster...
http://twitter.com/xseasickx/statuses/6409529825

Saturday, December 5, 2009
Upside to waiting for a bus "early" in the morning: Serenity & calm set to music. One of the best ways to start a day. ^-^
http://twitter.com/Axusus/statuses/6374436978

Friday, December 4, 2009
Waiting for the F bus. http://yfrog.com/3n6qxj
http://twitter.com/terencegoh/statuses/6358198353

on a bus that looks like Robocop
http://twitter.com/Nastysounds/statuses/6357775218

incredible. I'm online on the Bay Bridge because I'm on a bus that's in WiFi range of a AC Transit WiFi coach that has a 3G connection.
http://twitter.com/andrewhao/statuses/6355071066

Waiting for my first ever 72 ürapidü bus how exciting?
http://twitter.com/armchairshrink/statuses/6354315344

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo, AC Transit Director Chris Peeples in the AC Transit Mini-Bus at 2008 Children's Holiday Parade in Oakland, by Flickr user VSmoothe.

Exchange Old Paper Tickets by December 31

2009-12-11T15:10:00.000-08:00

AC Transit increased its fares in July, allowing passengers use old tickets through September.

If you still have old-fare tickets, the deadline to exchange them for new paper tickets, or for value on a TransLink card is Thursday, December 31. This applies to all prepaid tickets except Local Youth 31-Day tickets (because the price of those tickets did not change.)

You can exchange your old tickets -- local or transbay – in December for new, local tickets at the current fare.

If you're a local rider, you can choose to receive a TransLink card with the value of your old tickets on it, instead of receiving new paper tickets. Transbay paper tickets have been discontinued.

If you're a Transbay rider you will receive a TransLink card with the equivalent value added to it.

If you were using 10-Ride paper Transbaytickets and have switched to TransLink, remember that you can simply add cash ("e-cash") to your TransLink card in any amount. The card automatically deducts the correct fare each time you use it.

If you were using 31-Day paper transbay tickets, you're probably already adding a 31-Day pass to your TransLink card. And, you can have both e-cash and a pass on your card simultaneously.

Photo Credit: Flickr user Size8Jeans

There are two ways to exchange tickets:

In person at AC Transit's downtown Oakland office (1600 Franklin St., 510-891-4775) or,
By mailing them in with a downloadable exchange form by December 31.

Learn more about Translink.

So, unless you're saving your tickets for the memories, bring those tickets in.

MTC to vote on AC Transit proposal to reallocate federal funding to prevent service cuts

2009-12-11T09:30:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: SFStreetsblog
ATU Local 192 representative Anthony Rodgers, a 20 year AC Transit driver, speaks at a "Funeral for Public Transportation" in June.

If you go:

What: MTC Commission vote on AC Transit proposal to reallocate funding
When: Wednesday, December 16, 1:40 p.m.
Where: MTC Headquarters, 101 Eighth Street, Oakland, CA
Get there: AC Transit lines 11, 59, 62 or 88, or BART to Lake Merritt

The Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) Programming and Allocations Committee has recommended that the Commission approve AC Transit’s proposal to reallocate $35 million in federal funding earmarked for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project for service in Oakland, Berkeley and San Leandro to the general operating fund.

The funding shift will allow AC Transit to minimize the proposed service cutbacks, initially set around 15 percent, to just an 8.4 percent reduction, preserving vital bus service and saving about 100 AC Transit jobs. The Federal Transit Administration (FTA) will still have to approve the reallocation of funds.

The MTC Commissioners will meet next on December 16, 2009 to take final action on the proposed diversion of funds. MTC is located at 101 Eighth Street in the Joseph P. Bort MetroCenter, across the street from Lake Merritt BART. MTC is immediately accessible by AC Transit bus lines 11, 59, 62 and 88.

Oakland officials host Joint Holiday Party

2009-12-09T14:54:00.000-08:00

A number of Oakland elected officials will host the annual Joint Holiday Party tonight, December 9 in downtown Oakland.

Join Congresswoman Barbara Lee, Senator Loni Hancock, Assembly Member Sandré Swanson, Assembly member Nancy Skinner, Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson, Mayor Ron Dellums, AC Transit Director Joel Young and Peralta Community College Trustee Abel Guillen.

There will be some refreshments. Please bring a donation for the Socially Responsible Network, which is holding a food and non-violent toy drive.

The event takes place at the Uptown Body & Fender from 5-8 PM at 401 26th St in Oakland. The event is accessible via many AC Transit bus lines.

Commuter Appreciation Day in Downtown Oakland

2009-12-09T11:10:00.000-08:00

AC Transit is always looking for ways to thank our riders.

106 KMEL and AC Transit will celebrate Commuter Appreciation Day on Thursday morning, December 10 in downtown Oakland.

The first 200 people to show up to the booth will receive a free Translink card with $5. We'll also be giving out freebies, Translink pens and T-shirts. It's our way of thanking you for riding AC Transit.

Visit the KMEL booth at 14th and Broadway in downtown Oakland from 7:30-9 AM.

The event is accessible by any downtown Oakland AC Transit busline.

Photo of AC Transit rider Candace Frisby courtesy ACTforMe.org

Help plan 2010 agenda for Transbay Taskforce

2009-12-07T15:49:00.000-08:00

The AC Transit Transbay Taskforce will hold its final meeting of the year on December 8. Here's your opportunity to help plan our 2010 agenda.

The November Taskforce meeting kept up the historical tone of the October Transbay Taskforce meeting, special guest Will Spargur with the Transbay Joint Powers Authority gave a well received presentation on the history of AC Transit's predecessor, the Key System. The discussion on its heydey and its demise, was followed by a Transbay Terminal Move Update.

Help plan the 2010 agenda for the Transbay Taskforce on Tuesday, December 8 from Noon to 1:00 p.m. in San Francisco.

2009 Meeting Dates
June 9 ~~July 14~~ Cancelled August 11 September 8 October 13 November 10 December 8

The AC Transit Transbay Taskforce meets on the second Tuesday of every month in downtown San Francisco at 245 Market Street (at Beale)* from Noon to 1:00pm. All Transbay riders are invited to attend.

It's your opportunity to hear firsthand what's in the works at AC Transit and to offer your perspective and suggestions about improving Transbay service.

Mark your calendars and watch for announcements at your bus stop in the Transbay Terminal. Better yet, sign up for AC Transit e-News and get notified by e-mail.

*245 Market St. is the PG&E building, and most meetings are held in the Conference Center in Room 1417. Occasionally, the room is changed, so watch for the meeting-specific announcement by following AC Transit on Twitter.

Berkeley Planning Commission seeks input on Bus Rapid Transit Proposal

2009-12-07T12:11:00.000-08:00

Image Credit: ACTransit.org

As part of the ongoing public input process, Berkeley residents have an opportunity to give their input on the proposed East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.

The Berkeley Planning Commission will host a workshop and public comment session at its December 9 meeting. Learn about BRT and the draft Locally Preferred Alternative proposed by city staff.

The BRT information session will be held 6-7 PM before the meeting, followed by Public comment when the commission meeting begins at 7 PM. The meeting will be held at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Avenue.

Image Credit: City of Berkeley

Visit the City of Berkeley website to view Agendas and staff reports for the meeting.

If you have specific questions about the City’s process for evaluating BRT or if you would like to submit a comment about the project, e-mail brt@cityofberkeley.info

Bus detours during Holiday Children's Parade

2009-12-04T16:40:00.000-08:00

During the Oakland Children's Holiday Parade on Saturday, December 5, all bus lines in downtown Oakland will have detours between 5:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Line 1 to Berkeley will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Webster St. and on Telegraph Ave. at 24th St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Franklin St. and Grand Ave.
Line 1 to Bay Fair BART will serve regular stops on Telegraph Ave. at Grand Ave. and on 11th St. at Harrison St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Grand Ave. and Harrison St.
Line 1R will serve regular stops on 12th St. and Oak St. (to Downtown Oakland) and 11th St. at Madison St. (to Bay Fair BART), and also a temporary stop on 11th St. at Jefferson St., but not regular stops on 11th and 12th streets at Broadway and Harrison St. Look for buses to Bay Fair BART on the 1R detour route on 7th St. between Jefferson and Jackson streets.
Line 11 to Piedmont will serve regular stops on 8th St. at Harrison St. and Harrison St. at Grand Ave., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Franklin St. and Grand Ave.
Line 11 to the Dimond District will serve regular stops on Harrison St. at Grand Ave. and 7th St. at Harrison St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Webster St.
Line 12 will serve regular stops on Grand Ave. and Webster St. and on Martin Luther King Jr. Way at 10th St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Grand Ave. and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.
Line 13 will serve regular stops on 14th St. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way, but not stops east of that point.
Line 14 to Fruitvale BART will serve regular stops on 14th St. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way and on 11th St. at Franklin St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way, 7th St., and Franklin St.
Line 14 to MacArthur BART will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Oak St. and 14th St. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way, but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Madison St., 6th St., or Jefferson St.
Line 15 to downtown Oakland will serve regular stops on San Pablo Ave. at Castro St. (Greyhound station) and 11th St. at Jefferson St, but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way between San Pablo Ave. and 14th St.
Line 15 to Berkeley will serve regular stops 11th St. at Jefferson St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Way at 22nd St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way between San Pablo Ave. and 14th St.
Line 18 to Albany will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Webster St. and Martin Luther King Jr. Way at Grand Ave., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Franklin St. and Grand Ave.
Line 18 to Montclair will serve regular stops on Martin Luther King Jr. Way at 25th St. and on 11th St. at Harrison St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Grand Ave. and Webster St.
Line 19 to Fruitvale BART will serve regular stops on 11th St. at Brush St. and on 7th St. at Franklin St., but not stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Jefferson St. and 7th St.
Line 19 to North Berkeley BART will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way but no other regular stops between the Posey Tube and this point. Look for buses at 7th St. at Alice St. (the Line O and W stop) or on Jefferson St. between 6th and 12th streets.
Line 40 to downtown Oakland will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Oak St. and on 11th St. at Jefferson St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Jackson St., 6th St., and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.
Line 40 to Eastmont Transit Center will serve regular stops on 11th St. at Jefferson St. and on 11th St. at Harrison St, but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Jefferson St., 7th St., or Harrison St.
Line 51 to Berkeley will serve regular stops on Harrison St. at 8th St. and Broadway at Grand Ave., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Franklin St.
Line 51 to Alameda will serve its regular stop on Broadway at 24th St., but no other regular stops before the Webster Tube. Look for buses on the detour route on Grand Ave. and Webster St.
Lines 59 and 59A to Lake Merritt BART will serve regular stops on Broadway at 24th St. and on Jackson St. at 17th St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Grand Ave., Webster St., and 17th St.
Lines 59 and 59A to Rockridge BART will serve regular stops on Jackson St. at 17th St. and Broadway at Grand Ave., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Harrison St. and Grand Ave.
Lines 72 and 72M to Jack London Square will serve regular stops on San Pablo Ave. at Castro St. (Greyhound station) and on Broadway at 5th St., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way and 5th St.
Lines 72 and 72M to Richmond will serve regular stops on Broadway at 4th St. and San Pablo Ave. at Grand Ave., but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way and 6th St.
Line 88 to Lake Merritt BART will serve regular stops on 11th St. at Brush St. and at Lake Merritt BART, but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Martin Luther King Jr. Way and 7th St.
Line 88 to North Berkeley BART will serve regular stops on 12th St. at Oak St. and 12th St. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way, but not regular stops between those points. Look for buses on the detour route on Madison St., 6th St., and Martin Luther King Jr. Way.
Line NL will serve regular stops on Grand Ave. at Market St. and Grand Ave. at Perkins St., but not regular stops between those points. The buses will continue straight on Grand Ave. during the detour. Look for buses at stops along Grand Ave. during the detour period.

To get service updates like this via email, sign up for AC Transit's "eNews."

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (12/4/2009)

2009-12-04T16:00:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: Combat karaoke, "I love New York," public transit "bubbles" and luxurious bus rides.

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, December 4, 2009
had decided to combat all of the aspiring rappers on #muni & #actransit with equally non-consentual old white man kareoke.
http://twitter.com/sfgabe/statuses/6293357504

Another suspenseful bus ride
http://twitter.com/zeej/statuses/6344087983

likes the NL transbay bus. One block away, runs freq & on time - got a seat (single!) w/no problem even though I'm almost the last stop
http://twitter.com/Neuroptik78/statuses/6341066283

Taking @actransit Transbay bus into work for 1st time in months Bus more comfortable than @sfbart but walk to job longer
http://twitter.com/susankrlib/statuses/6339129080

Thursday, December 3, 2009
Just came back from the CCC Star Party ;D...had a great talk with the bus driver of Ac Transit !I trust people who are older than me ;D.
http://twitter.com/ChrisAstro/statuses/6327470354

Surprise yarn and a free bus ride on the way to meet my sweetie mean my day is finally looking up.
http://twitter.com/ljellis/statuses/6323323326

Lol i told the bus driver i have practice and i think thats why he goin hella fast cuz im almost @ skoo already!!!
http://twitter.com/Jalia22/statuses/6320891542

there was a woman on my bus this morning with a 4 foot dreamcatcher. oh, berkeley...
http://twitter.com/jessielogan/statuses/6309090756

Lady next to me on bus smells like egg rolls. Unpleasant smell when it belongs to a person.
http://twitter.com/brentium/statuses/6294905091

Wednesday, December 2, 2009
riding the 1R and ladytron mp3s #storyofmylife
http://twitter.com/sgnfr/statuses/6277566417

Cal students big time bus riders on 51 from Oakland to Campus. Glad #actransit will have more frequent service on the new 4 line.
http://twitter.com/stgeller4/statuses/6274216832

well that works too. there's wifi on the AC Transit TransBay buses, but it only works near front of bus. moving wifi seems iffy
http://twitter.com/Ivoryblossum/statuses/6276511073

Tuesday, December 1, 2009
I see you Mr Bus Driver, smashin on 880 to get it there wooot!
http://twitter.com/D2thamuhfukknEZ/statuses/6263388501

Well at least I got some exercise tonight, running up Broadway to catch the bus! :P
http://twitter.com/idontlikewords/statuses/6258062087

i'm gonna start pretending i have an imaginary friend so people don't sit next to me on buses.
http://twitter.com/shortnsnappy/statuses/6243261077

Monday, November 30, 2009
is happy that she takes #actransit daily. And not Muni daily.
http://twitter.com/randiervin/statuses/6228087974

Just used my translink card for the first time. On AC Transit route 7.
http://twitter.com/davidciani/statuses/6151690598

Older gentleman boards #Oakland bus. Black fedora, red satin band. This city has classy hats.
http://twitter.com/agahran/statuses/6209212911

Sunday, November 29, 2009
It seems that most people are in a bubble on public transit. Me too. Sometimes I just want to pop those bubbles. But that`ll also pop mine.
http://twitter.com/bluepig83/statuses/6194958038

Saturday, November 28, 2009
I'm intrigued by the people who are blissfully unaware that E'RRRBODY on the bus can hear their conversation #actransit
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/6157953715

I swear people be doing some hella dumb stuff to *beat* the bus. Is getting into a parking space 17 seconds sooner really that important?
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/6155063431

This bus driver looks and sounds just like New York. Maybe it is her.
http://twitter.com/njerieaton/statuses/6153429753

We ran to the bus stop because we thought we missed it, but then we saw that it was behind us :P
http://twitter.com/phail317/statuses/6150661219

Friday, November 27, 2009
Sometimes I ride the 18 just for the luxurious experience: cordial drivers, clean seats, smooth ride & a scenic walk home #actransit
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/6132462175

I feel very vampiric right now, having rushed from the bus stop to get home before sunrise. I made it.
http://twitter.com/abostick59/statuses/6142949167

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo, AC Transit Director Chris Peeples in the AC Transit Mini-Bus at 2008 Children's Holiday Parade in Oakland, by Flickr user VSmoothe.

Pedestrian Safety Training in Oakland

2009-12-03T09:25:00.000-08:00

Photo Credit: Hobolimo.com

Concerned about pedestrian safety in your community? Feel that cars don’t yield to pedestrians often enough? Want better sidewalks, crosswalks, and safer places to walk?

Two Trainings to Choose From:

Thursday, December 3
6 pm - 9 pm
Brookfield Auditorium
401 Jones Avenue (Coliseum Room), Oakland
Saturday, December 5
9 am - 12:30 pm
OPD Eastmont Substation
2651 73rd Avenue, Oakland

Attend a free training on pedestrian safety in Oakland December 3 or December 5. The Community Pedestrian Safety Training is for local neighborhood citizens and safety advocates concerned about pedestrian safety to identify strategies for improving it. The training will help to make it safer and more pleasant to walk in one’s communities.

The training includes:

Expert presenters
Interactive training sessions
Small group discussion
Walkability Assessment

Each training is tailored to a particular community and is especially geared toward community members and pedestrian safety advocates.

Photo Credit: AC Transit/Flickr user Ride ACT

The first training takes place Thursday, December 3 from 6-9 p.m. at the Brookfield Auditorium, 401 Jones Avenue in the Coliseum Room. The second training takes place Saturday, December 5 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Oakland Police Department's Eastmont Substation, 2651 73rd Avenue (at MacArthur).

For more information, contact Neighborhood Services Coordinator Patricia Rose or visit Community Pedestrian Safety Training website, or the event's organizers: and SafeTREC, the Safe Transportation Research and Education Center.

Children's Holiday Parade in Oakland

2009-12-02T16:09:00.000-08:00

Ride AC Transit to the Children's Holiday Parade in Oakland Saturday, December 5.

Children's Holiday Parade
Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009
Time: 2:00 p.m.
Place: Broadway and 11th Street to 20th Street, to Harrison Street
More: Info

The children’s characters will appear as giant helium balloons, live characters waving from cars, or dancing and singing on colorful floats parade through Downtown Oakland.

AC Transit staff will partipate in the parade, walking alongside the AC Transit 1/4 bus and Holiday Bus will be in the parade. A number of buses will be detoured (which will be covered in a future blog post).

This parade -- organized by the Oakland Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce -- is one of the premier children’s parades in the country. The parade is televised throughout North America on PBS stations and in the San Francisco Bay Area on KTVU-FOX 2, KICU – Action 36, KQED-PBS, KTEH-PBS, KCSM-PBS, Comcast Cable and Peralta TV.

Photo Credit: Flickr user VSmoothe

AC Transit Director Chris Peeples rides in the AC Transit 1/4 Mini Bus during 2008 Children's Holiday Parade.

AC Transit to host Open House on Service Changes

2009-11-30T11:44:00.000-08:00

Cory LaVigne, service and operations planning manager at AC Transit, discusses proposed changes to the transit system during a public meeting held Tuesday.
PHOTO CREDIT: ALEXANDER RITCHIE/The Daily Cal

Tuesday, December 1
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.
AC Transit General Offices
1600 Franklin Street
2nd Floor Board Room, Oakland
Take the bus: All lines serving downtown Oakland (also BART to 19th Street)

AC Transit will host a community Open House on the Revised Service Adjustments Plan (RevSAP)Tuesday, December 1 at the downtown Oakland AC Transit General Offices.

The public is invited to learn more about the plan and talk with AC Transit planners. Following major state funding cuts, causing a $57 million deficit and 'fiscal emergency,' AC Transit initiated a highly attended Community Workshop series to get the public's input on service reductions.

In addition to the Open House, AC Transit is also accepting comments online, as well as via phone, mail and fax through December 2.

The Open House will be held from 5-7 p.m. at AC Transit's General Offices at 1600 Franklin Street in Oakland.

The Man Behind the Wheel: A Bus Driver's Tale

2009-11-30T09:44:00.000-08:00

"AC Transit’s No. 1 Bus is the principal line running through 51st and Telegraph. Its 17-mile route carries 11,600 passengers daily, and stops 112 times as it travels from San Leandro’s Bayfair shopping center, through the heart of Oakland, to the busy center of Berkeley."

This is the introduction for a recent News 21 story featuring AC Transit bus operator, Philip Burnley describes his first days on the 1R bus route.

The Man Behind the Wheel: A Bus Driver's Tale

The Man Behind the Wheel story and audio slide show are a part of News 21, a project of the Carnegie Initiative on the Future of Journalism. The interactive Intersections: geographical and cultural crossroads in the Bay Area showcases the diversity of the AC Transit service area, and beyond.

Be sure to check out Astrid Munn's The 3 a.m. commuter, also apart of the 51st and Telegraph Series.

Learn more about AC Transit's All Nighter Service at ACTransit.org.

Audio slideshow courtesy of Astrid Munn, News 21 reporter and UC Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism student. She is a former copy editor/Spanish language reporter at the Lincoln Journal-Star at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

AC Transit Holiday Bus Arrives

2009-11-27T10:47:00.000-08:00

AC Transit youth and Transbay riders had a chance to get a free 31-day pass this month; now everyone can ride free.

Starting today, if you catch the AC Transit Holiday Bus; you catch a free ride! Your ride is FREE on the AC Transit Holiday Bus through December 31, 2009.

"In these tough times, this is a token of gratitude for our loyal customers," said Interim General Manager Mary King. "A free bus ride might be a small thing, but it is a way to show that we care about our passengers and the communities we serve."

"A free bus ride might be a small thing, but it is a way to show that we care about our passengers and the communities we serve."
Interim GM Mary King

The annual "AC Transit Holiday Bus" is collaborative project: AC Transit mechanics installed a new engine package, the body shop repaired the coach from previous damage, installed decals, the electronics department added the holiday head sign, fare box and radio, and finally maintenance staff cleaned the coach from top to bottom!

The bus will first be assigned to routes dependent on the Richmond busyard (Division 3) -- home of AC Transit Operator Hector Perdomo -- before moving on to other areas in the District.

"And maybe—hopefully—it will bring smiles at a time when smiles are badly needed, making this season a little bit brighter for all of us," added King.

Below is an excerpt of the AC Transit Holiday Bus' schedule, but it is subject to change. The best way to get the updated schedule is to http://www.twitter.com/rideact

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (11/27/2009)

2009-11-27T08:36:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: Bus clones, UC Berkeley student protest and conversations overheard.

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, November 27, 2009
Amber models the free tshirt she got at #sfautoshowfor finishing #actransitfuel cell puzzle http://twitpic.com/r37tw
http://twitter.com/cafcp/statuses/6096567336

Thursday, November 26, 2009
I am *so* looking forward to taking the #actransit bus to Thanksgiving dinner. Have fun on the freeway, suckers!

http://twitter.com/chucklessmith/statuses/6091085614

This guy just called me his ‘Nubian sister.’ I felt like telling him my people are from #actransit
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/6037058707

And you said the bus made you late.. RT @triphoppa: I need to take faster showers. I get ready like a girl. No, I might be worse than a girl
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/6100913122

Wednesday, November 25, 2009
On bus down San Pablo Ave to #Berkeley Lotta good places to eat down here! Yum.
http://twitter.com/agahran/statuses/6069776335

Just hoped on the bus headed to HHS.. Lets get it Lady Farmers!(goin 2 practice)http://twitter.com/Jalia22/statuses/6063315128

*ring* "Hello? What? WHAT? WHAT?! WHAT?!?!" Maybe you should just call him back when you’re off the bus.
http://twitter.com/bradiation/statuses/6061987487

Tuesday, November 24, 2009
#actransitoperator just announced: ‘Please be patient when you drive thru the area; students are protesting.’ I ♥ the support!#ucbprotest
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5992820656

People on the bus just be telling their business like it’s nothing.
http://twitter.com/casaramaria/statuses/6042191130

Finally got that old bus pass sticker off of my school ID card. Darn thing was sticky!
http://twitter.com/tonks17/statuses/6039133380

Trying not to stare at my bus clone.
http://twitter.com/pedalng/statuses/6037954352

Sirens at broadway and 13th street shook up the bus
http://twitter.com/lucilleblvd/statuses/6019002533

On bus writing list of 101 things to love about kevin from top chef. Suggestions?
http://twitter.com/armchairshrink/statuses/5992407054

I HATE SEAT HOGGERS. Or, people deciding that their purse needs its own seat on a rush hour bus.
http://twitter.com/mmesandrine/statuses/5991957807

Someone on this bus is wearing Chloe Narcisse.
http://twitter.com/sgnfr/statuses/5987346864

Guy at the bus stop has a parrot on his shoulder which is no biggie except the bird is wearing a black and white striped sweater. Nice!
http://twitter.com/beckyclai/statuses/5980759338

Best ringtone on the bus? Ice queen solo from the magic flute, string section.
http://twitter.com/wrki/statuses/5979273946

Sunday, November 22, 2009
Keep it real. The lack of real-keeping would disappoint my bus’s driver.
http://twitter.com/ronpepsi/statuses/5964058742

Saturday, November 21, 2009
Random Thought on the Bus: Oh, this lady has big feet and a nice pedicure. [Looking at her hands, then face] Oh, that’s a whoaMAN
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5940692986

Oh lord, its some characters on the bus today
http://twitter.com/Sharmeezy/statuses/5931134221

Friday, November 20, 2009
#shoutout to da random white dude dressed like a cowboy dat paid my way on da bus 2day cus all I had was a $20 on me!!http://twitter.com/bmorestyle/statuses/5910886766

Awww. "Mama, on the bus there’s these kids who always tease me that my feet are big."
http://twitter.com/sfbluegirl/statuses/5903743653

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo Looking down the 72R, by Flickr userDaniel_Gies

Temporary Terminal Move Update

2009-11-25T13:41:00.000-08:00

Image Credit: Transbay Joint Powers Authority

Many Transbay riders asked, “When are we moving to the Temporary Terminal?” Considering that AC Transit was supposed to move to the Temporary Transbay Terminal this past Labor Day, that's a fair question.

Truth is, we won't know the exact date yet -- but we hope to know more soon. We anticipate the move could be sometime next spring.

We can tell you that the hold-up is related to potential federal stimulus funding for the underground train box for the Transbay Transit Center, not a delay in construction of the Temporary Terminal.

Image Credit: Transbay Terminal Webcam

Background
Currently, the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is considering which areas of the country will receive funding as part of an $8 billion federal stimulus package that President Obama billed as a first step toward a nationwide system of high-speed trains linking the nation's largest cities.

The train box for the Transbay Transit Center is a leading contender to receive funds, and if it does, the construction of the new Transit Center would include the train box now, in order to take advantage of competitive pricing in the construction industry.

The train box at the Transit Center will accommodate high-speed rail, as well as Caltrain, which currently terminates at 4th and King streets in San Francisco. This would increase the price tag for the Transit Center project in its initial phase, but cost less in the longrun, since ultimately the plan is for the Transit Center to be a major hub connecting bus and rail.

Decision Should be Coming Soon
The FRA was supposed to make its decision about the stimulus funds in October. That decision was delayed, meaning the construction plans and timeline for the Transit Center cannot yet be finalized. By coordinating the move to the Temporary Terminal with the start of Transit Center construction, AC Transit is working with the Transbay Joint Powers Authority to minimize the overall time we occupy the Temporary Terminal.

With the start of the Transit Center construction not yet finalized, the Temporary Terminal move-in date remains in question.

The FRA is supposed to make a decision sometime between December 2009 and March 2010. Once this decision is made and Transit Center construction plans can be firmed up, AC Transit will be able to set a move-in date to the Temporary Terminal.

In the meantime, we encourage you to visit the TJPA's Web site for up-to-date information on the transition to the Temporary Terminal at www.TemporaryTerminal.org.

You can check out the Temporary Terminal's progress at http://TemporaryTerminal.org/webcam.

Terminal Designs by Pelli Clarke PelliHines.

The hidden costs of health care

2009-11-25T09:22:00.000-08:00

(Editors Note: The following guest blog post, written by Joel Young, at-large AC Transit Director, originally appeared in the, Oakland Tribune November 14.)

By Joel Young
Director At-Large, AC Transit

AS THE raucous health care debate plays out in Washington D.C., I have become increasingly aware of the stakes for the Bay Area. Skyrocketing health care costs touch us all, and in ways you might not expect.

In February of this year, I was appointed to the Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District Board. I knew upon taking up my post that there were many costs associated with running such an expansive transit system. Most of these expenses are obvious, like fuel, maintenance, staff salaries and administration.

"Unfortunately, there is little AC Transit can do to prevent the increase. Every year our insurance providers raise our annual premiums by at least 6 percent. And due to lack of competition in the insurance market, we are unable to look for a cheaper plan."

Most people wouldn't peg health care costs as a major portion of our budget. But for fiscal year 2009-2010, AC Transit's total health care costs, which include medical, vision and dental care premiums, are approximately $36.4 million.

The story only gets worse with time. By fiscal year 2017-2018, these costs are expected to reach $55.7 million. That's a 56 percent cost increase from the fiscal year 2009-10 baseline.

Unfortunately, there is little AC Transit can do to prevent the increase. Every year our insurance providers raise our annual premiums by at least 6 percent. And due to lack of competition in the insurance market, we are unable to look for a cheaper plan.

So, what do these escalating costs mean to the organization and AC Transit riders?

Based on our projections, over an eight-year period we will have spent an additional $95.8 million on health care. That translates into 465,106 platform hours of service over that period, which is the equivalent of providing weekday bus service for 83 days, purchasing 180 brand new hybrid buses, doubling the amount of weekend service or providing 4.8 million monthly bus passes to children and the disabled.

"As an organization we have tried to reduce costs as much as possible while struggling to maintain a basic level of service. But there is not much more "fat" to trim and AC Transit will face ever-growing financial turmoil if our health care expenses continue to rise faster than our revenues."

I fear that these health care cost increases, along with the normal inflationary cost pressure associated with other operational expenses will outpace our revenue growth. Since we still have to balance the books, the increasing costs would likely force the board to reduce service or increase fares.

I dealt with that experience this year, and I can't begin to tell you what a bitter, emotionally draining experience it is.

I heard from people such as Michelle Lynne, a disabled resident who relies on various bus lines to conduct the everyday activities of her life. If those bus lines are eliminated she will not be able to leave her home.

I have had to tell people such as Mark Williams, who can barely afford the current fares, that they are going to have pay more to ride the bus. Oh and by the way, you're going to have to wait an additional 30 minutes for that bus after walking an additional half-mile to the nearest stop.

Previous Guest Blogs:
Mills College student shares her experience advocating for transportation

A Rider's Story: On my Scraper Bike

And I have seen our dedicated employees join the ranks of the unemployed as we've cut personnel to reduce costs. For these reasons, I hope that our elected leaders in Washington will have the determination to solve this issue for us.

As an organization we have tried to reduce costs as much as possible while struggling to maintain a basic level of service. But there is not much more "fat" to trim and AC Transit will face ever-growing financial turmoil if our health care expenses continue to rise faster than our revenues.

I am excited that the House has passed a bill. Now it is time for the Senate to act.

About the author: Joel Young is a lifelong Bay Area resident. Young was appointed by the AC Transit Board of Directors in February 2009 to fill one of the District's two At-Large positions. Prior to this role, Director Young worked on two local campaigns and practiced securities law. Director Young earned his B.A. from the University of California at Berkeley and a J.D. from U.C. Berkeley School of Law.

Sunday service on Thanksgiving, Nov. 26

2009-11-24T15:21:00.000-08:00

Don't be a turkey.

2009 Holiday	Date Observed
Christmas Day	Friday, December 25

In observance of Thanksgiving, on Thursday November 26, all AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on Sunday schedules. All AC Transit business offices will also be closed.

Sunday schedules are available at ACTransit.org.
bus line.

To get service updates via email, sign up for AC Transit's "eNews."

Line 218: From Fremont to Newark

2009-11-24T10:29:00.000-08:00

AC Transit bus line 218 is a 16 mile route serving communities from Ohlone College in the Mission San Jose District of Fremont, through Irvington and Centerville to Newark.

That journey was recently captured by You Tube user jologsHD.

Line 218

Line 218 is slated to discontinued in AC Transit's Revised Service Adjustments Plan(RevSAP). The communities will be served with the three newly proposed lines 239, 251 and 275.

AC Transit is accepting comments on each of these proposed lines, along with others on the RevSAP. For more information about the Revised Service Adjustments Plan, visit ACTransit.org.

Revised Service Adjustment Proposal released, Community Open House scheduled

2009-11-24T09:14:00.000-08:00

Comments on the revisions will be accepted through December 2 at 5:00 p.m. and may be offered:

By online comment form
In person at the community open house on December 1
By email to planning@actransit.org.
By mail to the AC Transit Board of Directors, 1600 Franklin Street, Oakland, CA 94612
By fax to (510) 891-4874

On November 18, a Revised Service Adjustments Plan proposal was presented to the AC Transit Board of Directors. The modified plan restores nearly half of the service hours originally proposed to be cut.

Many of the restored hours are in the form of increased frequency and operating hours. In some cases, significant routing revisions are proposed.

It should be noted that implementation of the revised plan is contingent upon the successful redirection of $35 million of Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality program funds from the District's Bus Rapid Transit project.

The public is invited to a community open house to learn more about the revised plan and talk with AC Transit planners. The Open House will be held Tuesday, Dec. 1 at AC Transit's General Offices.

The Board of Directors is expected to consider adopting the Revised Service Adjustments Plan at its December 16 meeting at 6:00 p.m. The Board may adopt, modify, reject, or defer any of the changes proposed. The service changes would likely go into effect March 2010.

You can also read the complete General Manager's Memo (GM Memo) presented to the Board Nov. 18.

Original article on ACTransit.org.

AC Transit Holiday Bus coming

2009-11-23T11:07:00.000-08:00

Once again, AC Transit is spreading Holiday Cheer by running the traditional AC Transit Holiday Bus.

AC Transit Maintenance Crew -- from front, Stacey Hayes, Demetrius Wright and Lynda Hill -- spiffs up the inside of Coach 3154 before its transformation into the Holiday Bus.

Each year, the AC Transit Maintenance Staff custom decorates a bus and the Scheduling Department works out a plan to assign the bus on random routes throughout the service area.

Did we mention that you can ride the AC TransitHoliday Bus free?

That's right! From the Friday after Thanksgiving through December 31, when the AC Transit Holiday Bus stops at your bus stop, you ride for free!

Below is an excerpt of the schedule (subject to change) that will be posted on ACTransit.org. Updates of the schedule will be provided in future updates to the AC Transit blog, but the best way to get the updated schedule is to http://www.twitter.com/rideact.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (11/20/2009)

2009-11-20T11:42:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: Bus drivers with nice manicures, impersonators and merciful, humanitarian drivers.

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, November 20, 2009
There’s a guy on the bus reading Ted Kazinsky’s "Manifesto Against Technology" on his Kindle.
http://twitter.com/riggledo/statuses/5894280600

Thursday, November 19, 2009
Worth noting: my AC Transit driver just did something really nice for a fellow rider.
http://twitter.com/Bookgirl6/statuses/5863332070

These AC Transit busses with WiFi are pretty sweet. Distracts me from the fact that I’m in Oakland in the middle of the night.
http://twitter.com/dangrover/statuses/5857088912

Youngsta on the bus jus called me sir... Dunno how I feel about that... I’m bout to be 25 in about 5months
http://twitter.com/DNas/statuses/5872570759

Omg i dared the bus driver to get his nails painted bright blue with bright pink tips and omg he did it!!!!!!!! I have a pic on my phone
http://twitter.com/nessa8488/statuses/5870491320

Ughh some1 on the bus has a large pizza pie! I’s makin me hungry!
http://twitter.com/chileanfrecia/statuses/5866564458

Wednesday, November 18, 2009
An old man using an electric razor on the bus at midnight. I’m glad I was paying attention.
http://twitter.com/annelisedevore/statuses/5851081716

http://twitpic.com/q1xmb - Audrey riding the bus.
http://twitter.com/cosmicpilgrim/statuses/5844740550

Have you ever been tickled when a lady with really hairy arms brushes past you in a crowded place mall,bus,club etc.
http://twitter.com/Joey_Ballgame/statuses/5834955723

i should have re thought my bus pass this girl got purple pants black boots a purple sweater and purple and black braids... twit pic?
http://twitter.com/babycakez919/statuses/5829596413

Tuesday, November 17, 2009
I can hear 5 languages on the bus right now -- six if you include Teenager. Man I’m gonna miss Oakland.
http://twitter.com/sheerly/statuses/5802127184

One purple phone. One bad song. Two girls dancing. Another day walking by an AC Transit bus stop.
http://twitter.com/kbad/statuses/5800024127

A/C Transit and TransLink aren’t talking to each other. This os the third free ride I’ve gotten in 8 hours, including a transbay ride.
http://twitter.com/abostick59/statuses/5796948890

Monday, November 16, 2009
Found a new favorite spot to wait for the F bus. In front of berkeley bart entrance. Warm air is coming from underground!
http://twitter.com/SquirrelMaster/statuses/5789997143

this bus driver talks like snoop from the wire.
http://twitter.com/SWEETtriniSOUL/statuses/5787343999

Some dude at the bus stop said, “You look like Rasheed Wallace!” I aint heard that since 2002
http://twitter.com/medamayor/statuses/5779375762

sitting on bus / waiting for the bridge to clear / i require eggs
http://twitter.com/ATerribleIdea/statuses/5769158469

Saw 2 crows nearly run down by an A/C Transit bus. The driver slowed so they could escape. That wouldn’t happen in San Francisco.
http://twitter.com/kevinatflickr/statuses/5767050284

Sunday, November 15, 2009
Trying to last the bus ride
http://twitter.com/zeej/statuses/5744480445

on the overnight bus from sf. should be dropped off by my house in 20 minutes if all goes well! we’ll see about that
http://twitter.com/renee_esquivil/statuses/5733293698

Saturday, November 14, 2009
taking #actransit home from fenton’s....boy do i love that place.
http://twitter.com/pathofwrath/statuses/5721342700

There are two rabbits in that box, which is called the "Cosmic Pet Shuttle." #actransit http://pic.gd/e149ef
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5719376666

Friday, November 13, 2009
yeah, riding the bus is the most flavorful way to get anywhere! I prefer the people watching and it can be interesting...
http://twitter.com/MandiPieALaMode/statuses/5700806167

Uncle Larry’s nephew is treating us to his loud phone calls on the bus again: http://yfrog.com/j75ypj
http://twitter.com/johnholland/statuses/5697691997

I like it when the bus driver tells me, "Keep it real". You too, bro.
http://twitter.com/ronpepsi/statuses/5690214334

I am in love with this bus driver. "Hey everyone, look at that big truck!" "If you ask me, this guy needs to go park his car!"
http://twitter.com/solanocellars/statuses/5688029793

Dan Savage made me miss my bus stop on the way to work!
http://twitter.com/dcicuto/statuses/5686168677

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo Looking down the 72R, by Flickr user Daniel_Gies.

Mr. Sulu rides public transportation

2009-11-20T09:00:00.000-08:00

In space, he pilots the S.S. Enterprise. But when he's on Planet Earth, Star Trek pilot Mr. Sulu rides public transportation.

"I ride the bus to save time and money," said Mr. Sulu in this 1984 TV spot for Milwaukee County Transit System (MCTS).

Sulu rides public transportation

Isn't that a lovely jingle? "Come ride with us...on the bus!"

Of course, you can save time by using NextBus.com when riding AC Transit, and you may be able to save money with an AC Transit EasyPass program.

If you see Mr. Sulu, or any other Star Trek characters, be sure to let AC Transit know for the "Sights and Sounds of AC Transit".

Want a free Fuel Cell T-Shirt? Visit AC Transit at the San Francisco Auto Show

2009-11-19T13:28:00.000-08:00

We know what you're thinking. What is a bus doing at an Auto Show? (You didn't say it, but you were thinking it)

How to Win
Read the short story Download the crossword puzzle Bring us the completed puzzle

These aren't just any old buses. These art next-generation, state of the art transportation machines.

Earlier this year, the California Fuel Cell Partnership hosted a slogan contest. Public transit riders and fuel cell enthusiasts submitted their creative ideas. Now, you can pick up the winning slogan!

Just read this short story about fuel cells, download and bring the completed the crossword puzzle to the California Fuel Cell Partnership (CAfcp) booth (#1083) at the San Francisco Auto Show November 26-29.

Get a free t-shirt while supplies last. You may also receive a pass for a free test ride on an AC Transit bus by learning about the AC Transit fuel cell bus program.

Be sure to check out AC Transit's solar efforts and other environmental sustainability projects.

Also, make sure to check out AC Transit's mini-bus in the booth and learn more about how you can make a fuel cell bus your "second car"!

Photo Credit: Flickr User Susan Decker

Dump the Pump Video Contest Winners

2009-11-18T15:15:00.000-08:00

What do a jilted gas pump, an upbeat musical depiction of the joys of avoiding traffic and an inspiring call to action to save the planet have in common?

These are the winners of the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) “Dump the Pump” Dump the Pump Video Contesttransit rider-generated online video contest. Participants were asked to create a video that demonstrated why they were “dumping the pump” in favor of using public transportation.

Bob Richardson of Portland, Oregon, the first place winner created a high-quality video which depicts a woman dumping her significant other. In this scene however, she is leaving the gas pump behind for a more attractive suitor – her local public transit system.

"Romance" - Dump the Pump Contest Entry

Top Three Videos
First place: Bob Richardson of Portland, OR - winner of a year of free public transportation and an Apple iPod Touch. Second place: Judith Keenan of Berkeley, CA – winner of six months of free public transportation. Third place: Miles Clark of Atlanta, GA - winner of three months of free public transportation.

“The purpose of this contest was to hear from the American public transit rider in a fun and entertaining way about how public transportation is taking us to a better future," said Rose Sheridan, APTA Vice-President of Marketing and Communications. “We were pleased and proud of the quality and creativity we saw in these videos, which made it hard to pick a winner.

"That’s a great problem to have," she added.

The winners of the contest were chosen by a panel of APTA officials. Other "Dump the Pump" contest winners and entries are on the Dump the Pump You Tube channel.

To learn about other APTA initatives, like "Dump the Pump Day", visit Public Transportation.org. Last fall, AC Transit held its own video contest. Check out our videos on AC Transit's You Tube channel.

Laney College hosts Climate Action Convergence

2009-11-17T11:21:00.001-08:00

Celebrate Community Solutions in Oakland! The Community Convergence for Climate Action will taking place at Laney College this Wednesday, November 18, organized by the Ella Baker Center for Human Rights.

Don't miss an inspiring evening of live performances, free food, and community as we showcase the solutions that will make Oakland a model green city -- solutions like the EasyPass for Peralta, that has enabled thousands of students to get to class.

Take a stand to demand climate solutions that clean the air, create green-collar jobs, save money, and improve public health. Learn more about the Oakland Climate Action Coalition.

Laney College is accessible by AC Transit lines 1, 1R, 11, 18, 40, 59, 62 and 88. The event starts at 6 p.m. Learn more about AC Transit's sustainability efforts on ACTransit.org.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (11/13/2009)

2009-11-13T13:13:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: Change jar/bus fare raids, 1950s outfits and 8-tracks, Buff guy sings Sheryl Crow and bus stop musings.

AC Transit loves to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the Sights and Sounds of AC Transit each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, November 13, 2009
Dan Savage made me miss my bus stop on the way to work!
http://twitter.com/dcicuto/statuses/5686168677

My leg is numb and I have to get off the bus. I hope I don't fall.
http://twitter.com/shame_on_yu/statuses/5684110535

raiding the change jar for bus fare... because i'm too lazy to walk to the bank across the street. age is beauty, people.
http://twitter.com/shortnsnappy/statuses/5682788476

Thursday, November 12, 2009
http://twitpic.com/p9pjd - Slob on @rideact 51 (1100) towards Berk dropping hot sauce packets
http://twitter.com/c_death/statuses/5660321013

Went to Oakland Grand Lake Theater for Aoki Documentary tonight w/ some ethnic studies buddies. Mean bus drivers :( but fun fun fun.
http://twitter.com/NgPaige/statuses/5675193101

I hate watching ppl sit on buses and trains grooming themselves in ways that should be done at home.
http://twitter.com/SWEETtriniSOUL/statuses/5671871162

Tax time comin round soon right!?maybe I shud jus take da bus from now on cuz if I really had to trust I will!
http://twitter.com/spoiled_mii/statuses/5660884078

Wednesday, November 11, 2009
#actransit driver & I are commiserating. Topics: Hummer/SUV strollers, regulars who never have change, crappy weekend service, etc
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5634559442

Bus driver made an unscheuled stop to get me closer to my hooome. Thank you sir dude.
http://twitter.com/pinoles/statuses/5613590943

November 10, 2009
on the bus headin home. another day another dolla
http://twitter.com/KiddRocket/statuses/5605611361

On the skool bus on my way to the college of alemedia then after dat basketball practice
http://twitter.com/rundmc91/statuses/5601534956

Just saw the chain reaction from my actions. Getting off on the wrong bus stop helped an elderly couple catch it.
http://twitter.com/medamayor/statuses/5600527315

should be at the bus stop instead still in my robe reading blogs. distractions distractions distractions.
http://twitter.com/ginaginaginagin/statuses/5592991231

Wifi bus you always come in the nick of time. I bet that casual commuter was listening to an old Weathergirls 8-track. Or smoked
http://twitter.com/bonstone/statuses/5591610605

November 9, 2009
On bus home. Wish @foursquare would let me be mayor on a bus route, not just a stop.
http://twitter.com/agahran/statuses/5582119990

hold on tho... All on da bus in pajama pants & matchin hoodies! Lmao!
http://twitter.com/spoiled_mii/statuses/5581424950

November 8, 2009
I'm sitting next to my teacher on the bus akward!!! http://myloc.me/1qqe6
http://twitter.com/Lauren_Loves_/statuses/5580657071

The bus driver just commended us for not ringing the back door.
http://twitter.com/afh4/statuses/5575817120

is riding the 19 bus through Little Saigon, his old stomping grounds. What it is, Saigon Sandwich! How you feel, Turtle Tower!
http://twitter.com/shareefali/statuses/5571462481

Omggggg cutie next to me on the bus!!!! :D
http://twitter.com/jaymiengov/statuses/5568883012

I finally got my bus pass in the mail! Now I don't have to carry around wads of $1 bills. Too bad I suck at taking the bus.
http://twitter.com/Erin_Donohue/statuses/5564994289

The couple on the bus next to me are dressed in 1950 outfits, and I can't tell if it's ironic or not
http://twitter.com/beerandnosh/statuses/5545502776

Coyotes cross the golden gate bridge, but cats take the transbay bus!
http://twitter.com/stasia_k/statuses/5542826276

The big muscular black guy singing Sheryl Crow on the bus to the airport is pretty hilarious.
http://twitter.com/zekewillmes/statuses/5538251524

November 7, 2009
haha! On the bus now w @prettygreengirl. See u there
http://twitter.com/LocalLemons/statuses/5520562993

The wheels on the Bus go round and round, round and round, round and round....
http://twitter.com/Jalia22/statuses/5518745458

Omg bus hella weird now there's a black guy wearing uggs! Wth is this world comming too
http://twitter.com/Jedimindfield/statuses/5513377510

Painting of a guy I drew on the transit a 2 nights ago. Done in a 5x8 molskine. Acrylics over ballpoint pen. http://twitpic.com/on7hs
http://twitter.com/dawoodmarion/statuses/5512766866

Waiting For da bus..about too go home and get dress den go back out somewhere.
http://twitter.com/BoOKiE7100/statuses/5512229773

Got on the bus in the wrong direction, now ive gotta call a cab all the way to SF. Yep, the bday is officially over :/
http://twitter.com/Whitney86/statuses/5506067077

November 6, 2009
dear hot russian boy on #actransit 51: i want your love love love i want your love.
http://twitter.com/jordan_aloud/statuses/5494075667

BART stops running at midnight. The buses are fun, coming home from SF ... eventually, you just hope for a car :)
http://twitter.com/mactavish/statuses/5500938042

just had an awesome bus experience! The lady from the C really took care of her and hooked her up with the 12! #actransit
http://twitter.com/randiervin/statuses/5497092328

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo Looking down the 72R, by Flickr user Daniel_Gies.

What do you do while waiting at the bus stop?

2009-11-12T11:36:00.000-08:00

Some listen to music, others prefer to read. Some wait for friends, while others do impersonations. Some make small talk, while others look away - avoiding eye contact with those making small talk.

There are many ways to past time at the bus stop. Thanks to Twitter user Redux, we know one more AC Transit favorite pastime to past time: Dancing.

Michael Jackson fan dancing at bus stop.

Ever wonder, "When is the next bus coming?" Check out NextBus.com and see when your next bus will arrive.

What do you do while waiting at the bus stop?

Youth: Take a quiz, win an AC Transit bus pass

2009-11-11T13:00:00.000-08:00

Want a FREE 31-day AC Transit youth bus pass?

All middle school and high school students in the AC Transit Service Area are eligible to take AC Transit's "Going Places, Making Choices" quiz. Only one entry per student allowed.

Winners will be drawn at random from all qualifying entries and will receive a FREE 31-day bus pass. Winners will be announced after the winter holiday break.

Be sure to read the rules first, then take the quiz on ACTransit.org.

This quiz ends Friday, December 31.

Oakland Local Meet Up

2009-11-11T12:41:00.000-08:00

Live in or near Oakland, CA? Interested in local news and issues?

Meet up with with the staff and volunteer contributors of the East Bay's newest community news and information hub, Oakland Local on Monday, November 16 in downtown Oakland.

Launched in October 2009, the website blends traditional journalism with multimedia and community voices. Oakland Local will be one month old and wants to get input from the public.

"Tell us what you'd like to see on our site, find out how to post your coverage, collaborate on local news/information projects, and more," writes Amy Gahran of Oakland Local.

For more information, visit OaklandLocal.com or their Meet-up page.

The first Oakland Local Meetup will take place Monday, November 16 from 6:30-8:30 p.m.Techliminal 268 14th Street. Techliminal is accessible by AC Transit bus line #13, and most downtown Oakland buslines.

Oakland Local is daily-updated Web site and mobile service...created to cover focus on environment, climate, transportation, housing, local government and community in Oakland. The initiative is funded by a grant from New Voices.

Meetup helps groups of people with shared interests plan meetings and form offline clubs in local communities around the world.

Transbay Passenger? Take our Survey!

2009-11-10T18:12:00.000-08:00

If you're a Transbay bus passenger, you're invited to take a short online survey about your experience using TransLink.

We're looking for feedback from those of you who are using TransLink -- whether you've used it for some time or just tried it recently. We're also interested in hearing from you if you have not tried TransLink.

Since AC Transit's recent elimination of transbay paper tickets, many of you have switched to TransLink. Now it's your turn to tell us about your TransLink experience.

Everyone who participates may enter a drawing to win a FREE 31-day AC Transit Transbay pass on a TransLink card. The deadline to complete the survey is November 20.

Photo Credit: Flickr User Agent Akit. Yes, Akit from the Akit's Complaint Department blog.

Transbay Taskforce: Rise and Fall of the Key System

2009-11-09T12:12:00.000-08:00

Marcus Garvey once said, "A people without knowledge of its past is like a tree without roots."

Well, AC Transit's roots run deep in the Bay Area.

And keeping with the historical theme of the October Transbay Taskforce meeting, special guest Will Spargur with the Transbay Joint Powers Authority will trace the history of AC Transit's predecessor, the Key System. He will lead a discussion on its heydey and its demise, including a discussion of the imprint it left on AC Transit today.

Join us for another fascinating Transbay Taskforce meeting Tuesday, November 10 from Noon to 1:00 p.m. in San Francisco. Last month, Heather Price, an archeologist working with the Transbay Joint Powers Authority (TJPA), and Joyce Oishi, with the Transbay Program Management team, shared a historic archaelogical presentation relating to the Transbay Terminal Project.

2009 Meeting Dates
June 9 ~~July 14~~ Cancelled August 11 September 8 October 13 November 10 December 8

Berkeley Transportation Commission hosts workshop on proposed Bus Rapid Transit project

2009-11-08T12:33:00.000-08:00

Image Credit: ACTforme.org

As part of the ongoing public input process, Berkeley residents have an opportunity to give their input on the proposed East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project.

The Berkeley Transportation Commission will host a workshop and public comment session at its November 19 meeting. Learn about BRT and the draft Locally Preferred Alternative proposed by city staff.

The workshop will be held 6-7 PM before the meeting, followed by Public comment when the commission meeting begins at 7 PM. The meeting will be held at the North Berkeley Senior Center, 1901 Hearst Avenue.

Visit the City of Berkeley website to view Agendas and staff reports for the meeting.

If you have specific questions about the City’s process for evaluating BRT or if you would like to submit a comment about the project, e-mail http://www.blogger.com/brt@cityofberkeley.info.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (11/6/09)

2009-11-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

This week on AC Transit: Personal Myspace moments, Temple of Transbay Mass Transit, bus driver BFF's, Phillies fan and Strangers.

The Sights and Sounds of AC Transit is back. We love to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the “Sights and Sounds of AC Transit” each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, November 6, 2009
The guy on the bus was having a myspace moment with himself. I felt the need to laugh at him and take a picture. http://twitpic.com/ohtdy
http://twitter.com/zekewillmes/statuses/5483695337

The wi-fi bus shall deliver me once again to the Temple Of Transbay Mass Transit(tm)http://twitter.com/bonstone/statuses/5481339943

Thursday, November 5, 2009
On the bus with over 50 little schoolkids on a field trip. I have seen the future .. and it is riding public transportation.
http://twitter.com/adrianmcintyre/statuses/5461833063

Some guy just walked on the bus with a phillies championship sweater hahahaha sorryyyy!
http://twitter.com/BigO07/statuses/5454181540

Dang ppl in the bus are hella Noemi (Nosy) haha, i hope they read this!? :P
http://twitter.com/juanLsanchez/statuses/5452465978

Resisting the urge to sing on the bus: "She's got electric boots a mohair suit. You know I read it in a magazine. B-B-B-Bennie & the Jets.."
http://twitter.com/b3cca_lynn/statuses/5453775556

Wednesday, November 4, 2009
watching Superbad on the bus ride home, laughing perhaps a bit too loudly too myself
http://twitter.com/sleep_til_noon/statuses/5439079581

on the bus back to SF ; the 0 bus has wi-fi now ? sweeet ; *
http://twitter.com/beashm0/statuses/5438130982

Ha! Im on the bus and this guy got some Michael Jackson glasses on ‘‘King of Pop’’.... I respect it..Lol
http://twitter.com/stgeller4/statuses/5435724902

Tuesday, November 3, 2009
I wish I was a photographer so that I could capture this very black and beautifully long Sudanese woman at the bus stop. #actransit
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5404393787

My rampant day dreaming has caused me to miss my bus stop by about 1 mile. OMG.
http://twitter.com/April_Isabel/statuses/5401693917

So my bus driver and I are becoming bff’s. I need to stop being nice to people.
http://twitter.com/smiles1_9/statuses/5394951850

Monday, November 2, 2009
keep being you girl, keep dancing in front of the bus ;)
http://twitter.com/TheWookieWay/statuses/5381474435

#unseenprequels Strangers on a Bus
http://twitter.com/mspuma/statuses/5375389415

This Is How I Wait for the Bus http://bit.ly/Nv2wA http://twitter.com/redux_com/statuses/5370322506

Sunday, November 1, 2009
The Bay Bridge closure was a costly reminder that taking public transit into and around the city is actually preferable much of the time.
http://twitter.com/cheshiredave/statuses/5367821775

I‘m waiting for the bus with a bunch of dried up blood all over me.
http://twitter.com/cosmicpilgrim/statuses/5344038347

Saturday, October 31, 2009
When people aren’t being [censored] on the bus, they’re actually pretty polite.
http://twitter.com/alexdevera/statuses/5322848168

Friday, October 30, 2009
Old lady on the bus told a story about Jesus helping her cash a check... #eastoakland http://twitter.com/sashapixlee/statuses/5304569242

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo Looking down the 72R, by Flickr user Daniel_Gies.

Most AC Transit service runs on Veterans Day

2009-11-06T09:02:00.000-08:00

2009 Holiday	Date Observed
Thanksgiving	Thursday, November 26
Christmas Day	Friday, December 25

Most AC Transit local and transbay lines will operate on regular schedules on Veterans Day, Wednesday November 11. However, suppplemental service that operates only on school days will not operate to schools that are closed on Veterans Day.

All AC Transit business offices will be closed on Wednesday, reopening on Thursday November 12.

You can always view specific AC Transit bus line schedules and maps on ACTransit.org. Thank you for riding AC Transit.

To get service updates via email, sign up for AC Transit's "eNews."

AC Transit: From No. 82 to No. 1

2009-11-05T15:14:00.001-08:00

Remember the 82?

Courtesy of A. Goddard's Collection on Dan's Rail Pix

Over the years, AC Transit bus route No. 82 took millions of East Bay residents to their destinations for decades. The original No. 82 route was a 29-mile journey Motorcoach ride from Oakland to Hayward as part of the Key System, the privately owned predecessor of AC Transit.

The No. 82L, a companion bus route with limited stops was later introduced. With less frequent stops, the line got riders to their destinations even faster.

And ten years after East 14th Street -- in Oakland -- was changed to International Blvd in 1996, the 82 became the new and improved Line 1 and 1R (Rapid) bus lines.

The 1R, running down one of the most dense corridors in the East bay, has helped introduce the idea of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to the East Bay.

The No. 82 is gone, but not forgotten. And the 1 and 1R live on as one of just many bus lines which tell many stories about East Bay transportation and some of the people that make up our community.

Learn more about the Future of Public Transportation on http://www.actforme.org and how you can help shape that future with AC Transit.

Transbay Terminal Archaeology, Discovery

2009-11-03T12:25:00.000-08:00

At the October 2009 AC Transit Transbay Taskforce meeting, attendees were treated to a great historical presentation about the San Francisco Transbay Terminal.

Transbay Terminal Archaeology

View more documents from AC Transit.

Heather Price from William Self Associates presented facts and findings from the excavation process related to the construction of San Francisco's Temporary Transbay Terminal. She was followed with a presentation by Joyce Oishi on the salvage and historical preservation efforts within the existing Transbay Terminal.

Several smaller items salvaged from the Terminal will be on display in an interpretive exhibit at the new Transbay Transit Center -- not the Temporary Terminal -- while larger items not taken by local museums will be properly recycled.

The AC Transit Transbay Taskforce meets on the second Tuesday of every month in downtown San Francisco. All Transbay riders are invited to attend.

Sign up for AC Transit e-News and get notified by e-mail of upcoming meetings and AC Transit Transbay service updates.

Learn about AC Transit's HyRoad Program

2009-11-01T12:51:00.000-08:00

AC Transit has the most comprehensive hydrogen fuel cell demonstration program in the world. The HyRoad program includes three fuel cell buses in daily operation and a hydrogen station in Oakland.

Photo Credit: Flickr User SeaOtter22

Since 2006, these buses have traveled more than 200,000 miles carrying more than 450,000 passengers in Berkeley, Oakland and Emeryville.

What is a fuel cell?
A fuel cell uses hydrogen to create electricity, which powers the bus's electric motors. Onboard traction batteries capture braking energy when slowing down or going down hills.

The batteries provide extra power to the electric motors as the bus pulls away from a stop or when climbing hills.

Fuel cell buses are extremely energy efficient, getting 65%-70% better mileage than a comparable diesel bus. On a full tank of fuel, a fuel cell bus has about 300-miles range, enough to operate continuously for 15-18 hours.

Photo Credit: Ride ACT

Why hydrogen-powered fuel cell buses?
Diesel buses emit greenhouse gas and other pollutants. The only emission from a fuel cell bus is water vapor; so clean you could condense it and drink it! This means less smog and less soot in our neighborhoods, less asthma in our children.

Hydrogen is the most common element in the universe and has been safely used for decades. Hydrogen is derived from many sources, including natural gas, water from solar, wind, and hydro power, biomass (like agricultural waste) and biogas (from landfills and sewage treatment plants.)

Next year, AC Transit will open a new hydrogen station in Emeryville. The station will supply fuel to as many as 12 new fuel cell buses and to passenger vehicles made by a variety of automakers. In part, the Emeryville station will use a new solar system funded by the Obama administration to make hydrogen from water, a process called “electrolysis.”

AC Transit's 12 new, next-generation hydrogen fuel cell buses will be in service in 2010. Like the current buses, they are Van Hool bodies and have UTC fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries made by EnerDel.

The new buses are 6,000 pounds lighter than the current buses, which should result in even better fuel economy.

Photo Credit: Flickr user GreenforAll.org

Just last month, the AC Transit bus design received the “Grand Environment Award” at one of the biggest international bus shows in the world in Kortrijk, Belgium.

Learn more about our Fuel Cell program or our environmental efforts on ACTransit.org. Be sure to take the HyRoad with AC Transit on our You Tube channel.

Oakland's Dia de Los Muertos Festival

2009-11-01T08:32:00.000-08:00

Bus Detours

Due to the Fruitvale 2009 Dia de los Muertos event in Oakland this weekend, several bus lines will have detours between 11:30 p.m. Saturday, October 31, and 11:00 p.m. Sunday, November 1.

Lines 1 and 801 will not operate on International Blvd. between High St. and Fruitvale Ave. Toward downtown Oakland, board these lines on International Blvd. at High St. or 29th Ave. Toward San Leandro, board these lines on International Blvd. at Fruitvale Ave. or International Blvd. on High St.
Line 1R will not operate on International Blvd. between 35th Ave. and Fruitvale Ave. Toward downtown Oakland, board Line 1R on International Blvd. at High St. or 26th Ave. Toward San Leandro, board Line 1R on International Blvd. at 26th Ave. or High St.
Line 14 will not operate on 35th Ave. or on International Blvd. between 35th Ave. and High St. Board Line 14 on High St. or at Fruitvale BART.
Line 54 will not operate on 35th Ave. between Fruitvale BART and Foothill Blvd. Board Line 54 at Fruitvale BART or Toward Merritt College on 35th Ave. at Harper St. and towards Fruitvale BART on 35th Ave. on Galindo St.

Ride AC Transit to Dia de los Muertos Sunday, November 1 in the Fruitvale district of Oakland.

Dia de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a fabulous one-day celebration of ancestors, deceased loved ones and community. This year’s commemoration of “Celebrating the Spirit of Community” will be a gigantic event loaded with activities and displays for the entire family to enjoy!

The event will take place on Sunday, November 1, 2009 from 10:00 am-5:00 pm. It will span along International Boulevard between Fruitvale and 35th

Avenues and be expanded to the area around the Fruitvale Plaza and down 12th Street to 37th Avenue.

This eclectic Day of the Dead celebration is a safe, family oriented, non-alcoholic event that is FREE to the public. Don’t miss this annual Oakland tradition in the Fruitvale district!

Dia de los Muertos is accessible by AC Transit bus lines 1 and 18.

Sign up for AC Transit e-News and get notices about your bus lines by e-mail.

Photo Credit: Flickr User: Athena Vina

The Dia de los Muertos is organized by the City of Oakland and with The Unity Council & Asociación de Comerciantes y Profesionales de Oakland (ACPO).

Graphic courtesy of Unity Council.

Scraper Bike Day in East Oakland

2009-10-31T09:00:00.000-07:00

Looking for a fun night on the town this Halloween. Join AC Transit at the 3rd Annual "Scraper Bike Day" Halloween Bicycle Ride. The ride is a bicycle ride through Oakland organized by youth of Oakland.

Scraper Bikes are creatively colored, customized bicycles with tricked-out rims, popularized by the song, "Scraper Bikes." (Which has nearly 4 million views, by the way!)

Tyrone Stevenson, also known as "Baby Champ," is the inventor of the Scraper Bikes. The "Scraper Bike King", as he is known said "We want to bring bikes from all over the Bay to come together and ride for peace and empowerment."

Last year's Scraper Bike Day ride. Video by Oaklandish

Earlier this summer, the Scraper Bikes held a successful bike ride for peace. Youth rode from Lake Merrit, to Mosswood Park, and finally to Defremery Park, where a free concert was held.

While the entertainment portion of Halloween event has been postponed, Stevenson is still excited about the ride, and the future of Scraper Bikes. After years of grassroots organizing of events to combat violence, this year's Scraper Bike Day is also part of a fundraiser that will help set-up a youth run bicycle shop in East Oakland.

"We plan on creating a bicycle shop that focuses on customizing bicycles, bicycle repair skills, and youth mentoring services," Stevenson said. "We plan on creating a sustainable, positive, educational, and 'Green' way of life in the inner city."

Photo Credit: Ride ACT

Learn more about the Scraper Bikes, or follow the Scraper Bike Team on Twitter.

Meanwhile, be on the look out for AC Transit Scraper Bike.

(By the way, don't be surprised to see local bloggers and R & B stars dressed like your favorite AC Transit drivers on Halloween.)

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (10/30/2009)

2009-10-30T19:03:00.000-07:00

This week, on AC Transit: Snoring on the bus, greasy French fries, and bus people.

The Sights and Sounds of AC Transit is back. We love to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the “Sights and Sounds of AC Transit” each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, October 30, 2009
it seems all the transbay buses are rerouted through macarthur bart; there’s even a convenient AC transit traffic guide!
http://twitter.com/theNJW/statuses/5302104264

Come on, AC Transit! I’ve got 3 hours to make myself green.
http://twitter.com/Bookgirl6/statuses/5300743711

AC Transit is still running all-night Transbay buses from DTSF.
http://twitter.com/dto510/statuses/5294301070

Thursday, October 29, 2009
AC Transit Bus to BART to Presidigo Shuttle. Lather, rinse, repeat.
http://twitter.com/eye680/statuses/5281058605

Ahh! Snoring on the bus with my earplugs in instead of driving... LOL Beats driving.
http://twitter.com/lifescomedy/statuses/5278136537

I wonder what the Bay Bridge closure means for carbon emissions in the SFBA... More public transit, so lower? Or more detours, so higher?
http://twitter.com/gjmf/statuses/5275480784

I wish there was an application like shazaam for languages! This woman on the bus is speaking this very intriguing language.
http://twitter.com/supermmmelvin/statuses/5270083555

4 forms of transportation tonight = legs + trolley + subway + bus
http://twitter.com/xkursion/statuses/5253088296

I don’t really care. If I wasn’t riding the bus I wouldn’t have time for Twitter
http://twitter.com/HoTacha/statuses/5246511898

Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Not looking forward to taking bart home tonight, AC transit is so much better...
http://twitter.com/stefaniekraus/statuses/5240824997

I just realized dat at da end of da bart, da bus, da long blocks, da bridges, my hallway, my street, N my day all dat I truly have IS MY GOD
http://twitter.com/luvistheanswere/statuses/5235634517

thank you public transit & my legs for getting me to work in one hour! gorgeous morning.
http://twitter.com/gribblette/statuses/5235201411

sitting in the back of the bus apparantly means being surrounded by dudes. seriously, I’m the only chick for several rows
http://twitter.com/lesisputnik/statuses/5233267715

I will say, all these bridge/driving fails should really make 1. Transit step up 2. People take transit. I know, wishful thinking.
http://twitter.com/greenkozi/statuses/5231837025

Tuesday, October 27, 2009
I can’t remember which bus takes me to my favorite place. This memory loss this just became really frightening.
http://twitter.com/myjourneywithms/statuses/5223891766

on the bus going home...thank God i have a home...
http://twitter.com/heroisalive/statuses/5220184986

older woman next 2 me constantly sighing and stamping her feet because of late bus. outta her control no reason to act like a petulant child
http://twitter.com/sleep_til_noon/statuses/5218176626

Good News:Got out of class early. Bad News:Had to take the bus home. Good News:Didn’t get shanked on the bus.
http://twitter.com/KatrinaCullison/statuses/5217810820

bridge. accident. bus. late. bolted outta the office for no reason, apparently. still, slightly better than being at work.
http://twitter.com/sleep_til_noon/statuses/5217755458

Why are people incapable of walking straight? Get out of the way! You too, bus in crosswalk. (Can you tell I’m annoyed?)
http://twitter.com/MadelaK/statuses/5215526884

Bus seats were not meant for tall-ish people. :C
http://twitter.com/emriko/statuses/5213940452

Oh crap. I’m on the bus with the whole junior class of berkeley high school.
http://twitter.com/ihatewheat/statuses/5213452304

sometimes i just want to stay on the bus cause being on your way to something is more rewarding than being there.
http://twitter.com/jongleberry/statuses/5208774390

The wind today. I was freezing waiting for the bus. On the bus and I’m boiling. Can’t win but I will take heat over cold.
http://twitter.com/EntropyWorks/statuses/5205374229

Monday, October 26, 2009
the fingernails of the man on the bus were dull yellow and she was / n’t sure if it was from a hard life or playing too much in the dirt
http://twitter.com/moonrhymes/statuses/5193376995

A fancy ride on Transbay P bus tonight. Awesome!
http://twitter.com/reddiejac/statuses/5189988282

Love the hybrid electric/hydrogen buses in Berkeley - so quiet!
http://twitter.com/gjmf/statuses/5188314940

Am I a freak because I feel like smiling at strangers on the bus?
http://twitter.com/ifeellike/statuses/5187825072

#whenwewereyoung I though it was cool to get on the 654 Double Bus and sit all the way in the Back
http://twitter.com/Dlux00/statuses/5184252796

#Whenwewereyoung the back of the bus after school was the SPOT!!!!!
http://twitter.com/JD_Mackstin/statuses/5183362764

Sunday, October 25, 2009
saw a group of folks this afternoon gettin’ down to bell biv devoe on a boombox at the bus stop. glorious!
http://twitter.com/matthewcj/statuses/5160846628

Saturday, October 24, 2009
waiting for the 51 so I can return books to the OPL-Rockridge Branch. #actransit
http://twitter.com/pathofwrath/statuses/5128333923

On the bus in oakland, definitely ready for dinner lol. Cha Chaanngg
http://twitter.com/scottro15/statuses/5139878089

On the bus headed to get something to eat...
http://twitter.com/Isaiah_Thomas2/statuses/5139721131

tell me why I seen one of them crackheads that was on the bus wit me the other night.. I had flashbacks
http://twitter.com/drinksonant/statuses/5128001586

Unattractive bus person of the day: dude in socks and sandals picking us zits while taking up three seats.
http://twitter.com/marcus_leung/statuses/5124929366

Friday, October 23, 2009
Omg just came up w/ the best halloween costume everrrr!!! I swear i do my best thinking on the bus, lol!
http://twitter.com/Whitney86/statuses/5114258735

Ugh woman. Please stop eating your greasy smelling french fries on the bus. Or share! Not!
http://twitter.com/singleguycooks/statuses/5110485302

Don't forget to read Last week’s Sights and Sounds of AC Transit.

Above photo of 'The Official AC Transit Pigeon' at Eastmont Transit Center, by Flickr user FRABJOUS JOY.

Mary King named AC Transit Interim GM

2009-10-29T13:47:00.000-07:00

Assistant AC Transit General Manager Mary King has been appointed Interim General Manager, taking the place of Rick Fernandez who is leaving after 13 years with the agency. AC Transit's Board of Directors tapped Ms. King to head the District while it engages in a search for a permanent replacement.

"I pledge to the entire Board that I will do my best to continue the implementation of your policy," said King who thanked the Board for its confidence in her. "First, we must keep in mind that we are here to serve the taxpayers of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, and the customers of AC Transit who rely upon safe and dependable transportation services."

"We must keep in mind that we are here to serve the taxpayers of Alameda and Contra Costa counties, and the customers of AC Transit who rely upon safe and dependable transportation services."
Interim GM Mary King

"Second, it is our duty to provide a sane and humane work environment for the dedicated employees who carry out our mission on a daily basis," said King who started at AC Transit in 2004 as the Assistant General Manager for Communications and External Affairs.

Mary King speaks at Sept. 2009 unveiling of AC Transit/Alameda County Voter Registration Bus.

A longtime community and political leader, Ms King brings an impressive list of personal and professional accomplishments to the job. Most notably, she is a former member of the Alameda County Board of Supervisors where she was committed to improving economic conditions and social services to lower income residents. She became a champion of land-use issues, developing and introducing a major approach that became known as the "King Plan."

"Mary King has a strong reputation for leadership over her long career in public service. We look forward to working with her to provide AC Transit's riders with safe and reliable service."
President Rocky Fernandez

MTC Executive Director Steve Heminger said "Mary King is a real pro and AC Transit is in good hands."

"Mary King has a strong reputation for leadership over her long career in public service," said Rocky Fernandez, Board President. "We look forward to working with her to provide AC Transit's riders with safe and reliable service."

Ms King has two daughters and two grandchildren, and is a lifelong resident of Oakland. Read more about King on ACTransit.org.

Bay Bridge Closed, Transbay Service Update

2009-10-28T08:42:00.000-07:00

Photo Credit Twitter User: larfo

Caltrans closed the Bay Bridge in both directions Tuesday evening after pieces of the cantilever section of the bridge fell during the late-afternoon commute. Officials are assessing the damage, and it is not immediately known how long the bridge will remain closed.

Last night, AC Transit's 800 All Nighter service operated on its regular schedule, going over the San Mateo Bridge, instead. (AC Transit will do everything possible to adhere to the published All Nighter schedule; however, the extenuating circumstances resulting in the rerouting of the line may cause some delays.)

For the morning, weekday commute (until the bridge reopens), AC Transit will run regular service; however, buses will detour to four East Bay BART stations -- as they did during the Labor Day bridge closure -- so that passengers can continue to downtown San Francisco on BART. The table below shows BART station assignments for each transbay line. Passengers should be prepared to pay a local AC Transit fare and then the applicable BART fare to downtown San Francisco.

Transbay Line	BART Station	BART one way fare (from Embarcadero, Montgomery, Powell, or Civic Center stations)
S, SA, SB	Coliseum /Oakland Airport BART	$3.80
B, C, CB, E, J, NX, NX/1/2/3/4, P, V, Z	MacArthur BART	$3.30
FS, G, H, L, LA	North Berkeley BART	$3.70
F, NL,O, OX, W	West Oakland BART	$2.90

It may be more convenient to take local service to the nearest BART station instead of a transbay line to the detour station. We encourage passengers to use one of AC Transit's online trip-planning features at ACTransit.org/, or check out the system map and schedule to determine the most direct route. ACTransit.org has a complete list of local line(s) serving nearest BART stations.

Be sure to check ACTransit.org further updates on the bridge closure and AC Transit's contingency plans. You can also visit http://www.511.org/ for more information about alternate routes during the bridge closure.

AC Transit 2009 Local Bus Roadeo

2009-10-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

2009 AC Transit
Bus Roadeo Results
First Place
Jesse Dela Cruz
D-6 Hayward

Second Place
Harold Kurz
D-4 East Oakland

Third Place
Ronald Ruybal
D-6 Hayward

Fourth Place
Timothy Caldwell
D-2 Emeryville

When you think of a “bus roadeo,” images of cowboys wrangling buses may come to mind. That’s not too far from the truth.

A Bus Roadeo is like an obstacle course with buses. Operators steered through cones -- points were deducted if operators touched cones -- and had to complete the course within seven minutes.

Six bus operators (drivers) competed in the 2009 AC Transit Local Bus Roadeo on October 22. Operators faced a challenging course with a series of problems (obstacles) testing their skills and judgment.

After an intense competition, 30 year veteran AC Transit operator Jesse Dela Cruz (Hayward) came in first place. Harold Kurz (East Oakland), Ronald Ruybal (Hayward) and Timothy Caldwell (Emeryville) came in second, third and fourth, respectively.

Steve Armijo Jr. (Hayward) and Ronald Garlets (Emeryville) rounded out the competition.

The 2009 Local Bus Roadeo was held at AC Transit’s Hayward Division Training and Education Center.

In past years, a regional Bus Roadeo competition would be held – featuring transit agencies throughout the Bay Area – and operator’s combined score would determine who would go to the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) International Bus Roadeo. Unfortunately, budget restraints forced this year’s regional to be cancelled.

Therefore, three national champion Dela Cruz will return to the International Bus Roadeo in 2010 to represent AC Transit.

If you see Jesse on his route, be sure to wish him Good luck!

Public Transportation Investment Gives Healthy Returns to Community

2009-10-26T14:48:00.000-07:00

Image Credit: Flickr User: Size8Jeans

Increased investment in public transportation is the way to go. In fact, it is the green way to go.

"By investing in public transportation, the U.S. is able to create immediate green jobs and income through the manufacturing, construction and operation of public transit vehicles," said William Millar, president of the America Public Transit Association (APTA).

"By investing in public transportation, the U.S. is able to create immediate green jobs and income through the manufacturing, construction and operation of public transit vehicles.
APTA President William Millar

The mass transit industry provides jobs, wages, and business income in industries that have been particularly hard hit by the economic downturn, according to a report released Oct. 22 by APTA. The report, Healthy Returns: Economic Impact of Public Transportation Investment, finds that every $1 of investment in public transportation returns many times its investment. The average return is almost four times the investment in economic returns. In some areas of the nation this figure could be as high as $9.

In addition, every $1 billion invested in public transportation results in $3.6 billion in business sales and generates nearly $500 million in federal, state, and local tax revenues, according to the report.

“A lot of unemployed Americans are hurting right now as the job market continues to retract,” Millar said. “If we act now to include funding for public transportation in the climate change legislation and move quickly on transportation authorization, it can result in creating and supporting millions of jobs over the next six years and beyond."

The report cites the role of AC Transit service in economic development (pg. 21). A local study conducted in 1999 found that when "AC Transit was forced by budget shortfalls from reduced state and federal funds to cut 1,000 weekday platform hours, thereby saving $4.8 million....the total annual costs to the community from the service reductions were $48.1 million."

"This investment not only brings an immediate economic impact on job creation and business sales, but it also provides the long-term benefit of improving our nation’s transportation system, which in turn improves the efficiency of our economy."
Glen Weisbrod

Healthy Returns demonstrates how important adequate transit funding is during difficult economic periods. It's not surprising that Californians still support transit funding during recession.

Glen Weisbrod of Economic Development Research Group, which prepared the report, agreed. “This investment not only brings an immediate economic impact on job creation and business sales, but it also provides the long-term benefit of improving our nation’s transportation system, which in turn improves the efficiency of our economy,” he said.

AC Transit has been a long-time member of the American Public Transportation Association. Among other things, APTA provides up-to-date information on legislative issues before the Congress such as authorization of surface transportation law, climate change, Federal appropriations, high-speed passenger rail and other issues.

Sights and Sounds of AC Transit (10/23/2009)

2009-10-23T17:06:00.000-07:00

This week, on AC Transit: The "Official AC Transit pigeon", bus dream girl, snoring children.

The Sights and Sounds of AC Transit is back. We love to hear our riders' tales, or AC Diaries (and you have some interesting experiences and fascinating observations.)

We will update our blog with the “Sights and Sounds of AC Transit” each week, compiled using Twitter. Twitter is a social networking site that lets users tell their friends what they’re doing using short messages called “tweets.”

If you want to share your observations with us, tag your Tweets with the hashtag #actransit or you can email your photos to Ride AC Transit.

Friday, October 23, 2009
Oh dang. Just saw my first Zero emission, Hydrogen/Electric hybrid Bus. AC transit is so baller!
http://twitter.com/WuTony/statuses/5106333088

Why yes, I DID just compose a haiku in Japanese on the bus. Win
http://twitter.com/crowdsurfaway/statuses/5105572301

Waiting for the bus to go hooome! Haha I’m so excitedddddd
http://twitter.com/vkamote/statuses/5103936828

Thursday, October 22, 2009
Girl on the bus: You read the newspaper EVERY day. Me: Online daily, print often and Twitter hourly.
http://twitter.com/ReginaldJames/status/5070770801

Need this bus to go faster
http://twitter.com/symlink/statuses/5086901248

Taking a run by the marina: awesome. Missing the bus by seconds: not so awesome.
http://twitter.com/andrewhao/statuses/5085117118

Omg there’s sum boy on the bus snoring up a storm!! This is too funny and sooo cute hahahaha
http://twitter.com/AznThuglovin/statuses/5072783475

The bus driver calls me nice names :)
http://twitter.com/7awny/statuses/5072696936

Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Forgot to refill the Translink card last night. Awesome bus driver let me on anyway.
http://twitter.com/jbaldridge/statuses/5046807073

Ohhh I like this W bus!!!
http://twitter.com/supermmmelvin/statuses/5035504137

#iGottaCrushOn the gurl from the bus stop lol where u at baby
http://twitter.com/bfanatic17/statuses/5033653789

girl got on the bus with a huge basket of dirty laundry. well, that’s a bit different...
http://twitter.com/lesisputnik/statuses/5033594900

Tuesday, October 20, 2009
on an ac transit bus for the first time, which almost certainly means i'm going the wrong way
http://twitter.com/kimretta/statuses/5022976833

i had one bus, that was running behind schedule, drive right past me. and 4 other people.
http://twitter.com/pathofwrath/statuses/5029350640

Bus driver was hella coo I almost got good and left.LOL!
http://twitter.com/M1_Promo_Tre/statuses/5029316628

haha I found a dollar in front of a bus stop last week. Yay us!
http://twitter.com/arcanedelights/statuses/5027831871

I had a dream about this girl that I met on the bus a few weeks ago...and I got a feeling I need to find her agin..
http://twitter.com/bfanatic17/statuses/5024759012

Ac transit was good to me today
http://twitter.com/__steven/statuses/5024573000

I have wifi at the bus stop! I love you, Unsecure Network!
http://twitter.com/noirem/statuses/5024454720

The bus driver just got off the bus to go buy a coffee... Is he falling asleep? I looove Berkeley!
http://twitter.com/carloslievano/statuses/5023966685

If you pretend the bus is a big snowboard, it's kinda fun when you don't get a seat. #readyforthesnow
http://twitter.com/brendanfin/statuses/5021597548

Monday, October 19, 2009
Discount bus/BART pass for seniors is a great idea. More passes the better; people take up way too much boarding time paying their fare.
http://twitter.com/stgeller4/statuses/4997558991

Walkin 2 the bus stop to go to Laney. Wish me luck on my midterm!
http://twitter.com/AznThuglovin/statuses/4995320182

haha. Just make sure you remember to keep the ticket after using it - you can always add money. Think public transit + debit card
http://twitter.com/zanders/statuses/793733076

Sunday, October 18, 2009
On the bus goin 2 go c my cuh cuh
http://twitter.com/KeliKel/statuses/4973783872

Saturday, October 17, 2009
Off to go chill with my....ermm I dunno what to call him lmao scared I will fall asleep on the bus tho cah am that tired!
http://twitter.com/callmekaykay/statuses/4961236406

but let me state that I’m a hustler for real, so you know i got the stolen bus pass
http://twitter.com/kaisershahid/statuses/4945059652

Friday, October 16, 2009
Riding the bus, sitting in between a Black dude and a White dude with a big Confederate tattoo.
http://twitter.com/eastsidecalipas/statuses/4937631314

The bus has a lot more passengers, too
http://twitter.com/abostick59/statuses/4937160885

Yeah, I’ll make a donation in Your Name to AC Transit. Cool?
http://twitter.com/ronpepsi/statuses/4935898321

Don't forget to read Last week’s sights and sounds.

Above photo of 'The Official AC Transit Pigeon' at Eastmont Transit Center, by Flickr user FRABJOUS JOY.

San Leandro to host East Bay BRT Community Meetings

2009-10-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

COMMUNITY MEETINGS
San Leandro

Thursday, October 22 6:30:pm - 8:30pm (presentation at 7pm)
San Leandro Public Library
300 Estudillo Avenue, San Leandro, 94577.
Accessible by BART and AC Transit #1, 1R, 40, and 80

Tuesday, October 27 from 6:30pm - 8:30pm (presentation at 7pm) Bayfair Mall: 15555 E. 14th Street, San Leandro, 94578, 2nd floor near the center escalator. Accessible by BART and AC Transit #1, 1R, 40, 50, 55, 84, 93, 97, and 99.

Saturday, November 7 from 10:00am - 12:00 noon (presentation at 10:30am) City Hall South Offices
835 E. 14th Street, San Leandro, 94577. Accessible by BART and AC Transit #1 and 1R.

AC Transit is exploring the development of a state-of-the-art new transit system that will connect Berkeley, Oakland and San Leandro. We want your input!

AC Transit will hold three Community Meetings on East Bay Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) in San Leandro.

Learn about the proposed East Bay BRT project:

See how the plan has changed with public feedback
Learn how BRT would work in San Leandro
Review AC Transit's plan to preserve local service
Offer your feedback on the plan prior to city council consideration

Attendees will be entered to win AC Transit ride tickets! Refreshments will also be served.

All meetings will discuss the same information in four 30-minute segments: open house, presentation, Q & A, open house. All meetings are ADA accessible.
Translation services are available by calling 510-891-4755 five days in advance.

A downloadable event flyer is available here as well as other background information on East Bay BRT.

For more information about the East Bay Bus Rapid Transit project, visit ACTforMe.org or check out our East Bay BRT videos on You Tube.

Building BART (Part II)

2009-10-17T15:19:00.000-07:00

This second BART progress film is a follow-up to, "Three to get ready." [insert link to three to get ready blog post] Along the way, which appears to have been produced in 1970, depicts actual construction progress throughout the San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit System during 1967-68.

Along the Way.

Interested in Bay Area Public Transportation history? Check out the Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC)/Association of Bay Area Government (ABAG) Library. And be sure to let us know if you find anything interesting.

As we approach AC Transit's 50th Anniversay, be on the look out for random historical posts from AC Transit's ceased employee newsletter, "Transit Times."

Check out the previous video, Along the Way

GM announces separation from AC Transit

2009-10-16T14:35:00.000-07:00

The AC Transit Board of Directors and General Manager Rick Fernandez announced Friday that he'll be stepping down.

"I met with the Board over the past few weeks and let them know of my desire to have more free time with my family and enjoy personal interests. I have been working with them to finalize my departure so as to make the transition as smooth and as helpful to the transit District as possible," Rick Fernandez said.

He has served as General Manager since February 1999. He is one of the longest serving general managers during the agency's 50-year history.

Accomplishments
"Rick has done an outstanding job for our riders, our staff, and the taxpayers who support our bus system," said AC Transit President Rocky Fernandez (no relation to general manager Rick Fernandez). "Equally important, he has helped AC Transit lead the way in progressively guiding the organization through good and bad economic times."

"Rick has done an outstanding job for our riders, our staff, and the taxpayers who support our bus system."
Board President Rocky Fernandez

The transit Board praised the General Manager for his long service, his dedication and his modernization of the bus operating fleet with environmentally friendly vehicles, including state-of-the-art hydrogen-powered buses. The District has also invested in renewable energy projects including solar energy systems at District facilities and biodiesel and gas-to-liquid (GTL) fuel during his tenure.

Board President Fernandez said the transit District is reviewing candidates to temporarily fill the position as Acting General Manager while the District begins the process of a nationwide search to permanently replace the outgoing General Manager. The District and the General Manager are finalizing the details of his departure. No date has been set for his last day of service.

Transportation Service
General Manager Rick Fernandez began his career with the District as Assistant General Manager of operations in 1996, coming to the District from a position as Deputy General Manager of Operations at New Jersey Transit. He began as AC General Manager three years later in Feb. 1999, replacing General Manager Sharon Banks.

"I have enjoyed 33 years of challenges in the transportation world, and I will always value the friendships, both personal and professional, that I have had the pleasure to make while serving for the past 13 years at AC Transit."
AC Transit GM Rick Fernandez

Board President Rocky Fernandez praised Rick Fernandez's service to the District and credited the General Manager with innovative marketing and revenue programs, successful bond measures, and developing a reputation for AC Transit throughout the industry for innovation in fleet design and financial management.

"It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve the riders and the District," said Rick Fernandez. "I have enjoyed 33 years of challenges in the transportation world, and I will always value the friendships, both personal and professional, that I have had the pleasure to make while serving for the past 13 years at AC Transit."

Read the original press release at ACTransit.org.