The University Police Department is conducting a survey this week, in conjunction with the Student Association. One purpose of the survey is to obtain feedback about the 4-RIDE escort service and the Colonial Express shuttle service. We are evaluating the services and looking for opportunities to improve them.

The title of a recent article in The Hatchet, “GW limits 4-RIDE Access” (April 5, p. 3), is not an accurate description of the two services. The shuttle service was implemented in 1996 and had an average of 9,000 students using that service in nine months. In the last year and a half, there has been a decline in passengers and a subsequent increase in the use of the 4-RIDE service.

The recent information provided to the students was an attempt to educate and inform the students about the fact that a 35-minute ride on the shuttle bus will get them to their destination quicker than waiting for the 4-RIDE service. We want to strongly encourage that alternative to get students to their destinations as quickly as possible during the peak hours. I want to be clear that we will not deny the 4-RIDE service to students who indicate that they are willing to wait as long as it takes for the 4-RIDE service.

We will spend time this summer evaluating the feedback we receive this week, and we will make the necessary changes to both services to make them as fast and efficient as possible. Student input in this process is critical, so if you have not done so already, please take a few minutes to stop by the H Street Terrace of the Marvin Center and fill out a survey on Thursday, April 12 from 12:30 to 3 p.m.

-Dolores A. Stafford
University Police Department director