Ideas for Hampton Roads Transit (Archived Posts)

Ideas for HRT moved!

2009-01-21T10:18:00.001-05:00

It's now official, I've moved to my new home. Please update your bookmarks.

Blog site: http://blog.raggiesoft.com/
RSS Feed: http://blog.raggiesoft.com/?feed=rss2

Winter Weather: Buses are on REGULAR schedule for now

2009-01-20T09:30:00.001-05:00

As of 9:30 AM, all buses are on REGULAR SCHEDULE and there IS NO SNOW so far

Norfolk Southern Right of Way Deal

2009-01-15T20:19:00.006-05:00

H/T Henry Ryto

The City of Virginia Beach is scheduled to purchase the Norfolk-Southern Right-of-Way, which is expected to be the extension of The Tide to the Oceanfront!!!!

Meaning, to get the ball rolling, bus service in Virginia Beach MUST run at night/Sundays (existing routes until about 11 PM) before the Federal Transit Administration will even talk to us about getting light rail.

Martin Luther King Day Schedule

2009-01-15T10:35:00.002-05:00

Be advised that Martin Luther King Day, Monday January 19th, will be a modified Saturday schedule.

All local routes are a Saturday schedule - NO SERVICE ON ROUTE 25 or 47 beyond Churchland
MAX Routes 962 and 967 are a WEEKDAY schedule
Routes 37 and 113 are NOT running

Video Podcast Coming Soon

2009-01-12T22:29:00.002-05:00

Coming Soon: A Video Podcast

Brambleton Station Construction: Brambleton Ave detours

2009-01-09T21:30:00.004-05:00

Be advised that due to construction of The Tide, Brambleton Ave will be shut down at the I-264 overpass. Routes 13 and 18 will be on detour (Route 9 is UNAFFECTED). Passengers needing to head to Ballentine Blvd south of Corprew Ave or any part of Kimball Terrace MUST USE ROUTE 13. Here is a map of the detour:

View Larger Map

KEY
BLUE is Route 13
RED is Route 18

What part of "No Left Turn" do these iodiots not understand?

2009-01-09T11:35:00.001-05:00

Several accidents with light rail trains (I think it's Huston). Every time the cars either ran a red light or made a left turn where left turns were prohibited

The Downtown Norfolk Stop is WHERE!?

2009-01-06T22:28:00.009-05:00

H/T Henry Ryto, Avenging Archangel:

All services that used to stop at Monticello & City Hall and City Hall & Court now stop at Bush & Brooke temporarily while The Tide is being constructed (this detour is until further notice). This is right in front of the Union Mission. Norfolk, are you trying to say something by dumping us off at the homeless shelter?

Yes Norfolk, you're even having MAX riders (who pay a premium fare to ride to work in Downtown Norfolk) getting off the bus AT THE HOMELESS SHELTER!

Suggestion: move the stop two blocks north to Bush & College which would provide better access to TCC and MacArthur. This would also get rid of the stigma of getting off in front of the Union Mission.

960

2009-01-03T20:36:00.006-05:00

Yesterday at the 3 PM inbound at 19th & Pacific, I saw this and yes it's equipped with HRT RiderNet (HRT's soon-to-be-launched MAX Wi-Fi) (learn more about RiderNet³)

UNOFFICIAL HRT Flickr Group

2008-12-28T22:21:00.000-05:00

I created an UNOFFICIAL Flickr group to post your HRT pictures. It's open to anyone with pictures of HRT buses and (coming soon!) trains

It's available here: http://www.flickr.com/groups/hrt-nerds/

So Reid, no one will ride Light Rail?

2008-12-28T21:23:00.004-05:00

Crowded
Originally uploaded by N-Sai

This is the Valley Metro Light Rail in Phoenix, Arizona. You say no one will ride? Then explain this standing load train!

Norfolk General is finally accessible

2008-12-28T11:11:00.002-05:00

I'm going to need to hit up a #2 and check on this:

From the Busmeister:

The transfer point at Norfolk General Hospital finally gets a wheelchair ramp.

This is odd

2008-12-27T23:57:00.006-05:00

View Flickr Page * View Larger Version

Specifically look at the word "MAX". Note how both are stylized. Coincidence? Can someone shed some light?

The METRO MAX is Phoenix's Valley Metro discount card to attract customer to Phoenix businesses that were impacted by the construction of the newly opened METRO Light Rail.

HRT MAX is our local Metro Area eXpress providing regional express bus service. Funny that this is also the same acronym (and meaning) as Portland, Oregon's MAX Light Rail.

Valley Metro Light Rail

2008-12-27T21:41:00.005-05:00

Today marked the Grand Opening of Metro Light Rail in Phoenix, Arizona. They use the same make/model of trains as used on Charlotte's LYNX which will be the same trains seen on The Tide.

Congratulations Phoenix :)

Metro Light Rail Web Site

(In case you're wondering: Phoenix is where one of my cousins live)

What an Idiot (Extremely Foul Language)

2008-12-25T22:02:00.005-05:00

WARNING: THERE IS EXTREMELY FOUL LANGUAGE

The road is closed, the guy is drunk, and all these witnesses see this. Guy calls all of them every name in the book

H/T Seattle Transit Blog

UPDATE DECEMBER 29: YOUTUBE REMOVED THE VIDEO FOR 'TERMS OF USE VIOLATIONS'

North Pole Bailout

2008-12-25T16:17:00.003-05:00

Even Santa needs some help:

Flickr

2008-12-25T15:43:00.002-05:00

I now have a Flickr Pro account, so check out my new toys:

Photo albums are on Flickr instead of Facebook
There's a Flickr badge across the top of this blog showing five random pictures. It changes every time you see it

Post 300

2008-12-25T00:32:00.002-05:00

Wow I can't believe it. 300 posts already.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T00:07:00.000-05:00

Well, now that it's past Midnight Eastern Time, Merry Christmas!

29 Pleasure Ho

2008-12-24T16:12:00.001-05:00

Yes, you're reading this right. Uh, oops?

Bike Racks

2008-12-24T16:10:00.003-05:00

Uh, George?? What were you thinking? Darline, why didn't you give George enough room (although you can't see it here, there's plenty of room in front of Darline's bus)

Summer Comes Early to Route 12

2008-12-24T16:04:00.003-05:00

(as always, click each image for a larger size)

They were the Mall & Beach crowd (little English, not sure where from). Yes Henry, they're all legal (in both meanings). They got on at Indian River & Reon and I assumed they would transfer to the 29 to head to Lynnhaven, but nope. They got off at the Lynnhaven Home Depot (not Wal-Mart, but Home Depot - I saw them walking in that parking lot)

Vehicle Fire Impacted Route 13

2008-12-24T16:01:00.003-05:00

Earlier today at the intersection of Battlefield Blvd & Great Bridge Blvd, there was a Vehicle Fire. HRT was not involved, but trips coming from TCC were late due to rubber-neckers. Trips heading to TCC were on detour as the police were requiring everyone to make a right onto Great Bridge Blvd.

**NO STOPS WERE ABLE TO BE SERVED BETWEEN GAINSBOROUGH/CHESAPEAKE REGIONAL AND BATTLEFIELD BLVD & CEDAR RD**

HRT Holiday Schedule

2008-12-23T12:50:00.004-05:00

Christmas Eve: WEEKDAY schedule
Christmas Day: SUNDAY schedule (no service in Virginia Beach - except Routes 15, 20, and 960)
New Year's Eve: WEEKDAY schedule
New Year's Day: SUNDAY schedule (no service in Virginia Beach - except Routes 15, 20, and 960)

Christmas Day and New Year's Day: Routes 37 (Dam Neck-Oceana-Lynnhaven Mall) and 113 (Peninsula Town Center-Patrick Henry Mall-Ft. Eustis) will NOT operate

Poll Results

2008-12-23T12:48:00.002-05:00

My poll closed and no surprise here: HRT should sell MAX passes on local buses and the Ferry.

For example, you're going from TCC Virginia Beach to Newport News. The fastest way is 36 --> 960 --> 961. That trip would be $3.50 for a local Day Pass + $1.50 for your 960 ride + $1.50 for your 961 ride. Just sell me the $5.50 Day Pass on the 36!

Route 41 Cradock: New Trip to Shipyard

2008-12-22T20:12:00.001-05:00

Effective January 5, 2009

Dear HRT Passengers,

Please be advised starting Monday, January 5, 2009 Route 41 (7:00 am trip only) will make a route deviation from County St and Court St to the Norfolk Naval Shipyard (Gate 10) then back to County St and Court St for the scheduled 7:14 am departure.

This trip will operate express. No other stops will be made.

For more information please call customer service at (757) 222-6100.

Thank you for your patronage | Printable Version

Why you shouldn't drive in Snow

2008-12-17T12:33:00.002-05:00

This is why you should stay home during snow:

H/T to Seattle Transit Blog

VBTA: So, no one rides the buses?

2008-12-12T13:02:00.004-05:00

So VBTA, no one rides buses? Try telling that to the people sitting on this fully loaded #194. By the way: it's a 60-foot bus and ALL seats are taken with a couple of standees.

This picture was taken during an off-peak trip at Sea-Tac Airport after loading. After leaving the Airport, the bus proceeds non-stop to Downtown Seattle and runs every 15 minutes, yet it is still a fully-loaded bus.

I'm Back - Bus Pictures from the Puget Sound

2008-12-12T11:49:00.004-05:00

I'm back!!!

Bus pictures from out west, sorted by agency:

Here's the best part of out there:

(Larger Version Here) - (Learn More about the Washington Clean Indoor Air Act)

HRT Service Changes starting January 5th, 2009

2008-12-05T18:06:00.000-05:00

Effective January 5, 2009

Dear HRT Passengers,

Please be advised of the following service improvements starting January 5, 2009, to provide better service and on-time performance:

Route 26: Bow Creek Blvd-Routing Change
Route 26 will be extended thru Oceana West Industrial Park (weekday only) one trip in the morning and one trip in the early evening.

Route 47: High St-Schedule Change
Route 47 will serve Tidewater Community College (Suffolk campus) and Gateway on an hourly basis. Service to Village and Academy will remain at 30 minute frequency.

Route 58: South Norfolk/Bainbridge Blvd Routing Change
Route 58 will no longer serve Campostella Rd. between Military Hwy. and Battlefield Blvd. This section of Campostella Rd. will still be served in both directions by the Route 6.

Route 300 – Downtown Portsmouth Loop Shuttle Schedule Change
Route 300 frequency will be reduced from 15 minutes to 30 minutes.

New schedules will be available for all affected routes.

For more information please call customer service at (757) 222-6100.

Thank you for your patronage | Printable Version

Out of Town: Meet Me in the Bus Tunnel

2008-12-04T09:50:00.004-05:00

Saturday morning, I will be flying to Sea-Tac Airport (no folks, it's NOT in Seattle, it's actually in SeaTac, Washington). Norfolk, why do I need a ride? I will be exploring my old stomping grounds mainly on Tuesday and Wednesday I'm heading to Tulalip Casino. I'll be back on Thursday night.

I promise plenty of bus pictures, especially of the Tunnel*.

* link may not work after Dec 31 (see note)

The Tide comes to Downtown Norfolk

2008-11-30T22:56:00.005-05:00

Starting next year, The Tide starts construction in Downtown Norfolk.

In case the Pilot doesn't approve my comment:

"I look forward to laughing at all the Naysayers (you regular posters know who you are) who are sitting on City Hall Ave in 2010 trying to exit Downtown while we whiz by you on the train. Next up on the list of extensions: EVMS to NOB via ODU and Oceanfront via existing line (yes, these were publicly announced). ORF Airport? Once we get them out of the pockets of the taxi companies, then we're good to go. (it's the airport authority that illegally prohibits (denial of access to a public facility) HRT from serving the airport). Remember folks, The Tide is a Starter Line that is designed to be extended. Please do your research before posting."

I fully expect the Regular Naysayers (you know who you are) to spew fire on the article comment board

Virginian-Pilot is Down

2008-11-30T00:59:00.005-05:00

(click for a larger version)

This is the Virginian-Pilot website as of 1:01 AM Sunday, November 30th, 2008. Uh, oops?

UPDATE (November 30th, 12:15 PM): it's back up and running

POLL: Purchase your MAX pass on that connecting Local Bus?

2008-11-30T00:11:00.003-05:00

I'm finally doing a new poll.

Say you get on the 36 and you're on your way to Hampton. You want to purchase a Day Pass and you know you're going to need The MAX. Do you think the Local Buses should sell you the MAX pass?

Trolley Base Humor

2008-11-29T11:53:00.001-05:00

Yesterday, I was on the #33 leaving 19th & Pacific at 3:03 PM. We hit every single red light from 19th & Arctic up to (and including) Princess Anne & Dam Neck

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone

2008-11-27T10:20:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone :)

Bus schedules:

Today: Sunday Service (no service in Va Beach except Routes 15, 20, and 960)
Tomorrow (Black Friday): Saturday Service
Over Weekend: Regular Weekend Schedule
Monday: Normal schedule resumes

Bound to Go Your Way

2008-11-27T01:01:00.002-05:00

This is how it works in Boulder, CO. H/T to Seattle Transit Blog (see their blog entry)

Bus Stop in the Downtown Tunnel

2008-11-26T23:07:00.002-05:00

Click for a larger version

See a problem here? According to Google, you CAN catch a bus IN the Downtown Tunnel. Circled is County & Court, the main transfer point in Portsmouth. Note the missing Bus Stop icon

Photo Gallery

2008-11-22T10:20:00.003-05:00

Introducing my Bus Pictures Photo Gallery. Here's all my HRT pictures in one spot

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=167787&l=0a4b7&id=1255682339

10-13 on the Cutback 25

2008-11-22T08:56:00.003-05:00

Yesterday after dropping Amy off, I continued on the 25 to Military Circle and rode the Cutback trip to see what demand would look like during an off-peak trip. Wish I didn't. I bumped into my worst nightmare (my ex) who was riding to Koger

HRT User Citizen's Advisory Committee Meeting

2008-11-18T13:39:00.003-05:00

Hampton Roads Transit's User Citizen's Advisory Committee is meeting tomorrow, November 19th at HRT Headquarters, 3400 Victoria Blvd, Hampton. The meeting starts at 6 PM.

Victoria is served by Route 103. To get there on time, I suggest you be on the 103 leaving Hampton Transit Center at 5:15 PM or Newport News Transit Center at 5 PM.

Virginia Department of Rail and Public Transportation

2008-11-17T10:12:00.003-05:00

DRPT, here's an idea: these improvements that you want cost $7 million, right? How about you fork over the $7 million to pay for it! Plain and simple.

See Virginia-Pravda article

h/t Henry Ryto.

WVEC-TV 13: On the Record: The Jordan Bridge

2008-11-16T10:52:00.005-05:00

Today's On the Record will feature the Jordan Bridge closing. HRT runs the #65 Jordan Bridge Limited bus to replace it. Read on for more:

Ideas for Hampton Roads Transit: Introducing Route 65: The Jordan Bridge Limited
Ideas for Hampton Roads Transit: Route 65: The Jordan Bridge Nightmare
Ideas for Hampton Roads Transit: Route 65 was FREE*
Avenging Archangel: Portsmouth Public Libraries: Land of the Pharos

Long story short, the 65 needs fixes.

If you miss it today at noon, the On the Record website will have the show available online tomorrow.

Kansas City: HRT Knows

2008-11-15T13:26:00.007-05:00

(click for a larger version)

HRT knows that Kansas City Area Transportation Authority is aware of my blog. Hmm, anyone want to venture a guess as to what happened?
It has come to the blog author's attention that HRT did let go of one or more department heads, who shall remain unnamed. I wonder if there may or may not be a connection?

See my previous entry, Kansas City Area Transportation Authority, for more information.

Route 65 was FREE*

2008-11-15T01:06:00.003-05:00

Route 65, the Jordan Bridge Limited, was FREE all this week!!!!!*

* The only problem was that no one said anything until I boarded the bus yesterday. Regular HRT fare, including Day Passes, applies starting Monday.

I still stand by my review, The Jordan Bridge Nightmare.

Disturbing Thoughts from Unnamed Drivers

2008-11-15T00:02:00.003-05:00

These drivers reporting this shall remain unnamed for their protection

It has come to my attention as of late that HRT is not treating its drivers well. For example, one transferred between bases and got to keep the seniority from the original base, thus pushing down drivers who were at the destination base.
Just the other week, Norfolk Dispatch yelled at Virginia Beach Dispatch as well as some Beach drivers for using the old radio instead of the new radio. The reason the drivers used the old radio? The new one wasn't working.
The whole agency is like this, and something needs to be done.

Unusual Sighting: 1800 series bus on MAX 960

2008-11-14T20:16:00.002-05:00

(Click Image for larger version)

This is something you don't see every day: Bus 1810 was running MAX Route 960

Route 65: The Jordan Bridge Nightmare

2008-11-14T20:11:00.003-05:00

Today, UCAC Chairman Henry Ryto and I took a ride on the #65 Jordan Bridge Limited (Bus 1235) and on paper, it's wonderful. In practice, the bus we rode sat at County & Court for a whole 30 minutes AFTER it was time to go. Also, the "Elizabeth River Park" Park & Ride is a gravel disaster. The bus had NO shipyard workers riding (the target riders for the route), and considering how the drivers didn't care that they left 30 minutes later, I don't blame them.

Kansas City Area Transportation Authority

2008-11-08T16:54:00.004-05:00

(click for larger version)

This is interesting to know. This is the log from my counter and it shows Kansas City's The Metro reading my blog. There were searching for ""hampton roads transit" service planning staff". Interesting.

This is a public log and is available for anyone to read. Simply click View My Stats, then head to Recent Visitor Activity.

Tide Maintenance Shop Contract Awarded

2008-11-08T12:59:00.003-05:00

HRT awarded a contract yesterday to construct the maintenance and storage facility for The Tide. It is a $10.9 million contract and because of NSU paranoia, er concerns, is 11.7% over budget.

NSU: since you demanded - excuse me, requested - these changes, perhaps HRT should bill you for the 11.7% or $1.5 million?

Residents of Western Washington vote to increase their taxes to pay for Public Transit improvements

2008-11-08T12:51:00.002-05:00

Voters in King County, Washington, Pierce County, Washington, and Snohomish County, Washington voted 60% to 40% to raise their taxes to pay for public transit improvements

This is the area where my Father lives, so I pay close attention to what happens.

Way to go Sound Transit :-)

Vote Today

2008-11-04T04:25:00.001-05:00

Today's the day. Go vote. All buses are on a Weekday schedule.

New Look

2008-11-02T21:52:00.002-05:00

I got bored of the old look, so Ideas for Hampton Roads Transit has a new look :)

I've also added an MSNBC widget to let you track the Presidential Election on Tuesday

Introducing Route 65: The Jordan Bridge Limited

2008-10-31T22:38:00.003-04:00

Starting November 10th, HRT will provide Route 65 which will run most of the day Monday - Friday making stops at 20th & Seaboard, Elizabeth River Park (old site of Jordan Bridge Toll Plaza), Norfolk Naval Shipyard (Gates 10 & 15), and County & Court in Portsmouth.

See HRT Website for route & schedule: http://www.gohrt.com/routes/Route_65.pdf

This route does not run on Weekends or Holidays.

Green Run's feelings on Reba McClanan

2008-10-31T22:09:00.003-04:00

Click each image for a larger one

Barack Obama Rally at Amphitheater may cause Service Delays

2008-10-30T13:41:00.005-04:00

Due to a Barack Obama Rally today at the Virginia Beach Amphitheater, all buses at TCC may face service delays. This will especially affect Routes 25 and 33 since they both use Princess Anne & Concert.

According to HRT Staff, the last lineup will hold for everyone. I've emailed to inquire about the 5:45 lineup since that's the last 12, 25, 29 (going past Hilltop), 33 (going past 19th & Pacific), and 36 (continuing as the #1 Granby).

Why Facebook Ads Suck

2008-10-23T23:45:00.003-04:00

(Larger Version)

This is why Facebook ads suck. It's clearly marked "Status: In a Relationship", yet I get an ad inviting me to some sl** site

(the "status" is more to get people to leave me alone, and yes Amy fully knows about it)

Survey

2008-10-23T09:28:00.001-04:00

This morning on my outbound (towards TCC) trip on the #25, there were two people doing surveys for HRT wanting to know how people thought of the service. Biggest things:

Number One: Run buses at night
Number Two: Run buses on the Weekend (remember, the 25 is weekdays only)

After we arrived at TCC, they told me of a problem they had this morning on the first #12 out of Seaboard at 5:48 AM of how the driver was rude to them as well as passengers and compared to how polite Bill was to them on the #25.

Candidate Endorsements

2008-10-21T20:20:00.002-04:00

I am now ready to release my endorsements for 2008. This is the first such entry for my blog.

President: Barak Obama

In a nutshell, John McCain does not support fixed rail transit (light rail, The Tide being an example)

Senator: Former Governor Mark Warner

There were some tough times when Warner was elected governor. Due to the mess Governor Jim Gilmore left us in, some major decisions had to be made.

Virginia Beach Mayor: Scott Taylor

Watch the video blog he & I did together. Enough said.

Riding the HRT Buses

A portion of my book was submitted to TCC for entry into ChannelMarker

2008-10-21T20:15:00.003-04:00

I submitted a portion of a book I'm working on to TCC ChannelMarker, the student literary magazine. I will know around March if they publish. April is when the next ChannelMarker is published.

I've specifically submitted Chapter 6 of Deep Freeze which comes from Rachel's Story 2. (that's the whole idea: to make you want to read more)

More info:

Scott Taylor in Pilot

2008-10-11T18:00:00.002-04:00

This morning's Hampton Roads section had a small article about Scott Taylor. It even has a small line about his HRT Video Blog, which I was the camera person for (for the curious, it was Route 15 heading inbound leaving Military Circle at 12:45 PM on a Saturday bound for Greenbrier Mall).

Route 25

2008-10-09T15:28:00.001-04:00

on the 3:20 inbound trip, the driver refused to be corrected when he told a passenger the 20 comes into the Holiday Inn

30-Day Youth

2008-10-09T15:26:00.001-04:00

Drivers, please be reminded that the old 30-Day Senior pass is also good for youth with proper ID

Simplify Your Ride, Starting Monday, October 6th

2008-09-30T14:05:00.000-04:00

Go Pass from Hampton Roads Transit on Vimeo.

29 Holland Rd - What the?

2008-09-28T20:03:00.001-04:00

Could someone explain the sign below the bus stop sign? How about getting it removed?

Me on the Sunday Buses

2008-09-28T19:04:00.001-04:00

Yep: I actually rode buses today. Here's what happened:

Bike Rack Full (we both boarded at VB Blvd & Witchduck – the other passenger is going to Military Circle)
Inbound 20 had a 10-16 at VB Blvd & Newtown; we're down. 1:41 as we turned onto K-Ville
Question: why do buses enter Leigh? What's wrong with the bus stops on Kempsville? Buses don't go into DePaul, for example.
It's 1:45 as we turn onto the Blvd from Kempsville – should be at Military Circle now. Held up by 10-16 who wanted off at VB Blvd & JANAF, but then didn't want off. There goes lineup :( Passengers were hot headed, and knew who to blame (not the driver)
Picked up another 10-16 at Military Circle. What a day.
Oh what fun: the 2:18 #11 was shot at by some preschooler with a BB gun. Colonial & 29th. There was no damage and no injuries, but plenty of paperwork.
Done with the concert at ODU. Time to head home.
I boarded the 960. One bike in front, then I loaded. Two more bikes came up wanting to ride as well. The first biker didn't grasp that they could take the 20 with their MAX Day Pass. This is why when you see your bus, get in line. Perhaps HRT should look into SportWorks Trilogy racks (although that 4^th rider would still be SOL)?
Passengers were running for the bus as it started taking off, but still inside Cedar Grove. I called forward to the driver but he ignored me. 5 PM #960 – bus #3001 – out of Cedar Grove.
As always, why do I need to pay extra to ride The MAX? Why can't I have a 30-Day E&D MAX? It's a pain carrying around the extra change.

It's official: HRT reads my blog

2008-09-18T10:26:00.001-04:00

It's official: someone from HRT reads my blog (the misspelling above isn't my fault). Click the picture for a larger version.

User Citizen's Advisory Committee Meeting Tomorrow

2008-09-16T09:41:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the UCAC meeting at HRT's 15th Street facility. Meeting starts at 6 PM.

Transit Open House

2008-09-16T09:40:00.002-04:00

Tonight from 7 PM to 9 PM will be the Transit Open House at the Virginia Beach Convention Center. I will be there.

Thanks for the van Frank

2008-09-16T09:38:00.003-04:00

Trolley Base Frank: Thanks for sending Linda out with the van to pick up Route 25 passengers this morning at 7:45 AM at TCC.

When Drivers do Good

2008-09-15T15:46:00.003-04:00

You don't hear this very often, but here goes:

Route 25 leaving TCC at 2:45 PM on Bus 4002: a pat on the back for keeping your cool when you had that rude/indecisive passenger on board today (Monday, September 15th, 2008)

New Fare Structure begins Monday, October 6th, 2008

2008-09-12T20:06:00.002-04:00

Beginning Monday October 6th, one pass is all you need!

HRT will be getting rid of transfers, 10-Rides, 20-Rides (the U-18 Card), and Ferry passes. In its place is the GO card. Ferry fare is going to $1.50 / $0.75 Seniors & Persons with Disabilities.

For more information, call 222-6100 or visit goHRT.com.

He Thinks He's the General Lee

2008-09-11T22:51:00.004-04:00

This guy thinks he's driving the General Lee. This tied up Chesapeake bus service for ages. Still, what an idiot!

Route 25: A Phantom!?

2008-09-10T09:57:00.003-04:00

So, 18th Street, why does Trolley Base have a Phantom? Trolley Base: what's it doing on the 25?

Route Suggestion: TCC to Pembroke via Rosemont/Bonney

2008-09-08T21:25:00.002-04:00

This was thrown at me by one of the Trolley Base drivers: TCC to Pembroke via Rosemont Road. The suggestion was:

Head on up Rosemont like present day 26.
LEFT onto Bonney
RIGHT onto Kentucky
LEFT onto VB Blvd
ENTER Pembroke East

This might be a nice little neighborhood bus. Thoughts?

Sound Transit Website Back Up

2008-09-07T07:00:00.004-04:00

The Sound Transit website is back up. Still no press release as to what actually happened (I expect one by the workweek at least since they do owe an explanation). I think I might have been the only one covering this (could someone correct me).

I know what happened to the site, but there will be the average ID-TEN-T who doesn't get it I'm sure and will need an ST explanation.

Route 47 to 68th St is back

2008-09-06T08:47:00.003-04:00

Virginia Beach's Route 47 is back. For more information:

Sound Transit Website Down

2008-09-06T08:44:00.004-04:00

Sound Transit, one of the agencies where my father lives, seems to be having some problems with its website. (click image for larger version)

Video Blog: Scott Taylor Rides the 15

2008-09-02T18:27:00.003-04:00

Labor Day riding the #15: Scott Taylor discuss issues facing bus riders in a video blog I recorded
Riding the HRT Buses

Scott Taylor's Bus Ride

2008-09-01T14:03:00.007-04:00

Today, in an Ideas for HRT Exclusive, I had the honor of taking Scott Taylor, candidate for Mayor of Virginia Beach, on a ride around using HRT. His goal was to learn what the issues facing passengers were. Three things that kept on repeating:

Run buses at night
Run buses on Sundays
Run buses more often than once an hour

Pictures from today (click the pictures for larger versions):

Later on tonight, look for Scott to vlog this trip from Route 15 (between Military Circle and College Park).

For more information, visit www.scotttaylor2008.com.

Tomorrow, look for a report from Henry Ryto on Scott's trip during the thick of evening rush hour.

Bus Ride with Mayoral Candidate Scott Taylor

2008-08-31T22:57:00.000-04:00

As a reminder:

I will be taking Scott Taylor, one of the candidates for Mayor of Virginia Beach, on a bus ride tomorrow. Want to join? TCC by 9:30 AM. Bus stop is @ Buckner Blvd entrance. $3 for adults (one of your dollars must be in quarters), $2 for children under 18 with proper ID, $1.50 for seniors age 60 and above or people with disabilities. All HRT farecards accepted as this will be a ride on regularly scheduled transit service. As a reminder: HRT will be on a SATURDAY schedule tomorrow.

Labor Day Service

2008-08-31T22:49:00.001-04:00

As a reminder, HRT service tomorrow will be a SATURDAY schedule.

The Tide Electrical Systems

2008-08-28T21:23:00.001-04:00

H/T to Henry Ryto: The Tide's electrical systems contract is 5% BELOW budget.

Yes Reid, BELOW budget.

Bus Ride with Scott Taylor

2008-08-28T20:54:00.004-04:00

In an Ideas for HRT exclusive, I will be riding the bus on Monday (Labor Day) with Virginia Beach mayoral candidate Scott Taylor. This will be your chance to ask questions and his chance to learn what needs to be done. We will be departing TCC at 9:45 AM and will figure out where to go from there. Anyone with ideas?

Remember: Monday is a Saturday Schedule. In Virginia Beach, this means:

There is NO service on Route 25
Route 20 is every 30 minutes between Cedar Grove and Pembroke. Points west are every hour
Service between 19th & Pacific and 68th & Atlantic is every 30 minutes, alternating between the 20 and 33
There is NO 967 MAX service
There is NO 19 or 22 NOB Express
Route 15 runs every 60 minutes, alternating every 120 minutes between Robert Hall and Greenbrier Mall

Public Transit Open House

2008-08-28T09:36:00.001-04:00

Mark your calendar:

Tuesday, September 16th 7 - 9 PM at the VB Convention Center. Yes, I'm fully aware it's AFTER buses are done for the night

The Day Pass: Another Cedar Grove?

2008-08-27T18:03:00.003-04:00

HRT needs to swing into action and start explaining the new pass structure. Passengers are aware that something's happening in October. They are aware there will be no more Transfers. They are having a hard time grasping the Day Pass concept and some are seriously looking at getting a car.

Even drivers are misinforming since they don't have all the details. I've been having to step in (drivers know me and will have passengers talk to me when they're unsure) and clarifying, but even I don't know everything.

What is the Go card? How does it work? What's the Go + MAX plan (for example, now: 30 Day + $1.50 = MAX fare)?

What's the plan for ODU students who want to ride The MAX? ODU Card + $1.50 isn't a good end-all-be-all. There should be an ODU MAX card.

Route 47 TCC

2008-08-27T18:03:00.001-04:00

When will the updated Route 47 schedule come out? The service change was ages ago, let's update the schedule.

The MAX 30-Day E&D

2008-08-27T18:02:00.000-04:00

I said it before, I'll say it again: when will we get our 30-Day E&D MAX cards? HRT: you've angered many veterans at Wards Corner (just ask Henry who was helping out there during the service launch)

10-10 at Cedar Grove

2008-08-20T01:23:00.002-04:00

Thanks for pointing this out Russell. A 10-10 at Cedar Grove ties up everything. Includes plenty of pictures.

Have a read: HRT Drivers need to pay attention, follow directions

Gillig Phantom operated by Trolley Base?

2008-08-12T18:41:00.002-04:00

Yep you're reading right: the 26/29 was a 1200 series Phantom the other day.

Reid: Bus Rider != Freeloader

2008-08-07T21:35:00.006-04:00

(note how Mayor Bloomberg is standing)

Uh Reid? Newsflash: us bus riders pay to use the bus. Taxes + fares Meaning we're NOT freeloaders. Try saying that to Mayor Bloomberg who rides the subway to work (at regular fare) and even straphangs* when needed

* Forgot, VBTA has limited vocabulary: straphanging is the process of standing since there's no available seat. You're hanging your hand from the strap.

Image Source: NYC EMS Blog

Problems with Route 33 and Trolley Base

2008-08-07T09:19:00.002-04:00

Frank: The reason I gave you a 10-5 yesterday was because the 33 pulled off right as the 36 was pulling in. All she had to do was stop her bus.

Please, all operators, dispatchers, and supervisors: do your jobs. The 5:45 lineup is the final TCC lineup for:

Route 12
Route 25
Route 29 (going past Hilltop)
Route 33 (going past 19th & Pacific)
Route 36 (continuing as Route 1 from Pembroke)

Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to WAIT

Route 57 Detour

2008-08-05T12:58:00.002-04:00

Starting in September, on Saturdays Route 57 will need to be detoured due to closure of the Gilberton Bridge on US13/460. The city is closing the bridge for repairs Fridays 8 PM - Mondays 5 AM starting September 12th and ending October 6th.

Source: "Pravda-Online" (http://hamptonroads.com/2008/08/work-close-gilmerton-bridge-chesapeake-several-weekends)

Yesterday's Bus Ride notes

2008-07-26T00:56:00.002-04:00

Tidbits from yesterday's bus ride

The 44C VICTORY CROSSING via WALMART has almost quite literally 3 stops: High & FL, Wal-Mart (former Mid-City Shopping Center), and Victory Crossing. Why are there no other bus stops (Airline Blvd maybe?). Is there a reason this bus doesn't go to Norfolk General?
This is MAX driver #2 to not honor my 30-Day at $1.50 (first afternoon 967, leaving Chesapeake Square at 3:20 PM)
How about corrected 47 schedules? While we're at it, correct Route 47 destination signs
Correct the system map: Route 33 is a "LOCAL" not "TOUR"
What's the plans for the #7 (NOB tour), #34 (Oceana Tour), and #924 (Historic Villages Tour)? FTA says they fall under the new Charter regulations. Does this include the Amphitheater Shuttle?
Route 12: please enter Indian River Park & Ride when the 967 is running (or relocate the #12 bus stop to be closer to Reon + City of VB add a crosswalk at Reon)
I said it once, I'm saying it again: MAX 30-Day E&D cards are NEEDED (Henry can vouch for several Veterans passing through Wards Corner when service was first launched)

TDCHR Meeting, July 25th

2008-07-26T00:51:00.005-04:00

Here's the news

THE MAX:

This is from Michael Townes himself (not a direct quote, but you get the idea): "By law, I only have to offer discounts on the local buses". Henry, you say you have a plan?
Route 967 needs to be bidirectional. See Commission Packet near the end. What used to be a 60 minute commute from Hampton to Chesapeake Square is now a mismash of buses: 961-->45-->44 (that takes forever too in comparison to the old 61)

HRT Bus Terminals Projects:

Military Circle is Canceled due to lack of funding. Not sure who's in charge, but if that's the case, the sidewalk needs to be extended so that it can fit more than 2 buses
Victory Crossing/TCC-Portsmouth Relocation Terminal will proceed as planned

Sorry it's been a while

2008-07-26T00:51:00.001-04:00

Sorry it's been a while. Been up to other things

Happy 7/11: FREE SLURPEES!

2008-07-10T14:59:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow is 7/11. That means FREE* Slurpees!!!

* 7.11 ounces FREE

Fare Restructure Idea

2008-07-05T14:48:00.003-04:00

I know this is kind of late, but due to an incident on the Inbound 960 this morning at Silverleaf, this idea popped into my head:

HRT should adopt a Puget Pass like system where passes are sold in “denominations.” For example, I could purchase a pass worth $1.50 in transit fare (good on any service). In this example, I would be just fine on the local buses. For MAX service, simply show my E&D ID along with this $1.50 pass. In the case of HRT, passes available as follows (prices are how much bus fare they're worth):

$0.50 - Good for Shuttles; E&D Ferry
$0.75 - Good for E&D Local fare
$1.00 - VB Wave; Youth Fare; Ferry
$1.50 - E&D MAX, Regular Local
$3.00 - MAX

All passes could be upgraded with cash at the Farebox. Transfers could be issued encoded with how much fare is paid (for example, a Shuttle Transfer would prompt a Local Bus to ask for $1.00).

Further Reading:

Puget Pass FAQ (King County Metro)
Puget Pass Costs (King County Metro) - first column is how much bus fare it's worth and the rest of the columns are how much the pass costs

As of right now, MAX bus fareboxes do NOT recognize that I'm using a 30-Day Pass worth $1.50 and that I'm E&D.

Happy 232nd Birthday, America

2008-07-04T13:44:00.002-04:00

Today is America's 232nd birthday. I'm going to be working tonight 5:30 PM - Close. I don't expect a big crowd since everyone will be heading to the fireworks. I'm getting a Federally mandated $9.75 pay today (1.5x pay due to the Holiday) so no complaints here :)

I now have a real website*

2008-07-04T13:40:00.002-04:00

I just got paid and I paid for a "real" website. Coming soon, RaggieSoft.con will be my home for almost everything. This blog will not move and will remain on Blogger (I'm too lazy to change it).

I'm using 3Essentials Hosting, the same service as BlogNetNews.

* I just paid for it, so it takes some time to get set up