Modern technology has changed the world, from the invention of electricity to cell phones, technology has made life easier and safer. Nnee Bich’o Nii Apache Transit is keeping up with the ever-changing technology of today.

The fleet of eight buses and 13 vans are all outfitted with a GPS tracking system from TSO Mobile. It is unlike anything ever used by the San Carlos Apache Tribe before. It improves security, reduces unnecessary operating costs and maximizes workflow.

This system allows Apache Transit to pinpoint the location of each of their buses or vans and provides them with maintenance reports. It also keeps track of the vehicle’s history, from the moment it is turned on to the moment it is turned off and they are alerted if the vehicle goes over the posted speed limit on their routes or if the vehicle travels outside its assigned area.

It also allows for third party tracking. Each vehicle is assigned a tracking number. If a Nnee Bich’o Nii participant needs transportation outside of the regularly scheduled routes, arrangements are made for that participant. For example, if the participant needed a ride to the Motor Vehicle Division (MVD) in Globe, the information is entered into the system, a vehicle is assigned, and the tracking number is emailed to the participant. The participant can log onto the website and track the location of the vehicle as it is traveling to their location.

Their access ends when they arrive at their destination.

The system generates maintenance reports on all vehicles notifying them of any routine maintenance the vehicle needs. It creates a maintenance schedule based on odometer readings, time and by how many hours the engine has been running. The Apache Transit fleet uses synthetic motor oil which is changed every 10,000 miles. The system is set to alert them when it reaches 7,500 miles. The report includes the cost of the maintenance task and which tasks are overdue or still at a safe range. It cuts down on maintenance costs.

A geofence is an imaginary fence around a certain area. Apache Transit has established them for the transit routes. When a vehicle assigned to a certain area crosses that imaginary fence, an alert is sent out. This feature was added to prevent the theft of their vehicles.

Communication is vital in any organization. This system allows the dispatcher to send a text message to the drivers, alerting them of any changes on their route or any important information they need to be aware of. It prevents the driver from using their cell phones while operating the vehicle.

The safety of the drivers and passengers is very important to the Apache Transit Team. Each bus is outfitted with an onboard security camera which allows the dispatcher to monitor activity.

Wi-Fi access is available on every bus. Beginning in April of 2020, the drivers will be entering their pre- and post trip inspections onto an iPad that is connected to the system.

The drivers check the fluids (motor oil, transmission oil, etc.), they check the tires and look for any dents or scratches on the vehicle. This preventative maintenance helps to cut down on costs.

This GPS tracking system cost approximately $125 thousand. It was purchased in six phases with funding received from Federal Transit Authority grants and revenue generated by Apache Transit. Planning for this system began in 2009 and was completed in 2017. Bernie Kniffin, Nnee Bchi’o Nii Director, the late Andre Stevens and Wilbur Belvado traveled to Coolidge, Ariz. for a site visit with the Cottonwood Express Public Transit System who had implemented this system through TSO Mobile.

White Mountain Apache Transit and Cobre Valley Transit (CVT) use the same system. This is a convenience since Apache Transit will soon be connecting routes with CVT beginning Feb. 24, 2020.

Bernie Kniffin, credits Angelo Belvado, dispatcher, for the success of this system.  She chuckles and states, “Once he got it, he took off running with it.” 

Thank you, Angelo and the Apache Transit Team for putting the safety and satisfaction of the passengers first through technology. For information on transit schedules, find Apache Transit on Facebook or call the transit facility at 928-475-5023.