Editor,
In their letter to the Daily Lobo, students Josh Tybur and Holly Victorson proposed the elimination of UNM's shuttle system. As a student who commutes to UNM from outside Albuquerque, I feel the reasons cited need to be refuted.
One of the chief complaints is the inefficiency of the shuttle system. The transportation department added another shuttle to service the South Lot to ease this problem. Since the addition, the wait is now about three to 10 minutes, which is a tremendous improvement. I can't speak for the other lots, but I've been able to find a seat and ride to campus since the changes were implemented.
Another concern raised is the amount of money spent on shuttle service. If monetary concerns ever posed a threat to the shuttle system, I would gladly support a paid shuttle pass system. For me, the shuttle system is a major convenience. If it were a question of time over money, I'd rather spend the latter.
My final concern is the argument that utilizing the shuttle encourages a lifestyle of obesity. Walking around campus and making use of the new exercise facilities in the SUB are great ways to tackle this problem. Taking advantage of the shuttle ride to campus hardly encourages obesity. While riding the shuttle may take a mile off your total distance of walking, getting between classes on opposite sides of the campus is certainly cumulative.
Yes, I could get a bike, but what about the added expense of modifying my vehicle to accommodate one? I could walk, but what about the time added to my morning routine?
If you feel the shuttle is a waste, don't use it. I'm thankful for the energy put into the shuttle system by the transportation department and the bus drivers.
Matt Rechkemmer
UNM student
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