Computer Routing System Helps Bus Stop Efficiencies

8/20/2008  

The high price of fuel has increased the cost of transporting District 203 students riding buses to and from school. In light of these costs, and in an effort to pick up students efficiently and fairly, District 203 has established bus stops using the VersaTrans routing software. This has resulted in a 25% reduction in the number of bus stops, translating to less fuel used for starting, stopping and idling buses.

Our Transportation Department has now fully implemented the routing system. This system assigns bus stops along routes that make the most sense for all the students who walk to the stop - it’s the shortest walk for the majority of them. Of course, in a number of cases this stop is not the same stop as last year. However, it is the most logical location, given the addresses of all the students riding that bus. Parents of students riding school buses were notified of each child's bus stop location, bus number and pick-up time via post cards mailed earlier this month.

In past years, bus stops were altered on a manual basis as students ebbed and flowed from a neighborhood. There are more changes this year than there have been in past years, due to the VersaTrans system. The system recognizes changes in residency locations of students and alters stops to create the best stop based on the parameters in the system.

If there is a problem with students not being picked up, parents may call (630) 420-6464. Please leave a message if the line is busy, and the phone call will be returned. Those with concerns or questions about the new routes may also email our Transportation Department at emyers@naperville203.org. The top priority is to make sure all bused students are receiving transportation. We ask that those requesting additional information about their stops please do so via email.  We are prioritizing your requests in this way. Thank you for your cooperation.

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