Letter: Shuttle drivers deserve credit for improvements

Editor,

In response to Christopher Sanchez's article, "UNM Shuttles make improvements," I agree that they are doing a pretty damn good job.

However, I think much of the credit should be attributed to the shuttle drivers. While the machines and logistics are necessary, it is the shuttle drivers that make the system work.

I have a T Lot pass, but often hop the South Lot bus to return from the research center.

When I board at the Research Park, I have to stand in the aisle because the bus is crowded, then get off at the Annex Lot to let people off of the bus, then board again to the aisle with other people boarding. I then have to get off again at the South Lot so people can get off, then reboard with the other people boarding. The last stop is campus.

This is a little tedious, but I have no complaint. The sheer number of students being safely, expediently and professionally transported to and from campus is mind-boggling. If UNM management ever solicited student opinions, I would request that a portion of the tuition increase go to raises for the drivers.

Thank you, UNM courtesy shuttle drivers. For those student commuters who feel otherwise, you have to ask yourself, 'What if they weren't there?'

Joseph Vaughan

UNM student