Best Practices for University Bus Transit Programs: Identifying Strategies for Success

Date

2011-04

Authors

Juarez, Blanca

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Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this research project is to develop a practical ideal type model for university transit programs and to gauge the University of Texas at Austin's Shuttle Bus Program against the practical ideal type model. Methodology: To achieve this purpose, university transit program best practices are identified from the review of literature and a practical ideal type model is developed. The practical idea type includes the following key categories: (1) operations model, (2) funding model, (3) scope of service model, and (4) environmental responsiveness model. Based on these practical ideal type components, a focused interview and document analysis will conducted to gauge the current program's utilization of these components. The evidence collected from the interview and document analysis will be compiled into a best practice for universities to follow. Findings: Overall, the University of Texas at Austin Shuttle Bus Program meets all of the components of the practical ideal type model with the exception of utilization of alternative funding sources and the adoption of integrated passenger information technologies. Using alternative funding sources faces legal constraints due to the current contractual agreements as well as approval from the University Board of Regents. The adoption of integrated passenger information technologies is currently in the development phases and integration of this technology will not begin until 2012.

Description

An Applied Research Project Submitted to the Department of Political Science, Texas State University-San Marcos, in Partial Fulfillment for the Requirements for the Degree of Masters of Public Administration, Spring 2011.

Keywords

university transit programs, Capital Metro, shuttle bus, Public Administration

Citation

Juarez, B. (2011). Best practices for university bus transit programs: Identifying strategies for success. Masters of Public Administration, Texas State University-San Marcos, San Marcos, TX.

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