Hawaii education leaders address bus transportation challenges for students

In a recent joint public hearing held on February 8, 2024, Hawaii's Department of Transportation (DOT) and various stakeholders discussed pressing transportation issues affecting students across the islands. The meeting highlighted the critical need for reliable bus services, particularly for students who rely on public transportation to access education.

Laverne Moore, representing the Hawaii State Teachers Association, emphasized the importance of transportation for student success. She pointed out that while Oahu has implemented bus passes for students, those living on neighboring islands face significant challenges due to a lack of transportation options. Moore's testimony underscored the necessity of addressing these disparities to ensure all students have equal access to education.

The DOT's Deputy Director, Tammy Lee, provided insights into the current state of school bus services. She acknowledged the ongoing challenges, particularly the shortage of qualified drivers, which has led to the cancellation of numerous routes. Lee noted that while some routes have been reinstated, not all have returned to service, and the department is actively working on solutions, including potential driver subsidies and adjustments to licensing requirements to attract more drivers.

A significant point of discussion was the impact of the pandemic on transportation services. The DOT reported a drastic reduction in the number of available drivers, dropping from 674 pre-pandemic to as low as 446 during the height of the crisis. Although recent efforts have increased the number of drivers to 507, the department recognizes that more work is needed to fully restore services.

The hearing also addressed the need for better data analysis to understand ridership patterns and improve service efficiency. The DOT is exploring ways to encourage higher student participation in bus programs, as current ridership fluctuates significantly, impacting overall capacity and service effectiveness.

As the meeting concluded, participants expressed gratitude for the legislature's support in tackling these transportation challenges. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for collaborative efforts to enhance student transportation services, ensuring that all children in Hawaii can access their education without barriers. The DOT plans to continue engaging with stakeholders as they prepare for a new contract set to begin on July 1, 2024, which aims to address these ongoing issues.