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It has been almost one year since the buses have been sitting in limbo due to the coronavirus pandemic. Monday, March 1, the buses were back in business providing transportation for the community members from San Carlos and Bylas.
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It has been almost one year since the buses have been sitting in limbo due to the coronavirus pandemic. Monday, March 1, the buses were back in business providing transportation for the community members from San Carlos and Bylas.
In February four new buses arrived, with two more coming in March 2021. That will bring the total fleet up to 16 buses for the San Carlos and Bylas communities.
The safety of the public and drivers is always Apache Transit Team’s number one goal. Each bus has been Covid modified. They have been outfitted with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters which remove microscopic particles from the air and trap them in a filter. The interior ceiling, sidewalls, bulkhead, handrails, and seats have all been covered with Nanocide technology. Nancocide technology uses nanoscale silver particles to suppress the growth of algae, mold, mildew, and bacteria. It also stops unpleasant odors, discoloration, staining and deterioration. It kills over 650 different bacteria species within minutes of contact. It is non-toxic and environmentally friendly. The drivers also sanitize all surfaces on a regular basis. These modifications were made for the safety of the public and drivers. Hand sanitizers are also installed.
In addition to the Nanocide covering, each bus also has four real-time security cameras which are monitored at the Apache Transit Yard by the dispatchers. They have TSO Mobile which monitors the fleet when they are on the road, Bernadette Kniffin, Transit Director, David Francis, Fleet Supervisor/Outreach Facilitator, and Angelo Belvado, Dispatch Manager can use their cell phone to locate any of the buses when they are on their route. With TSO Mobile, they are also alerted when a bus is going over the speed limit or deviates from their route. The buses also have Wi-Fi access for the convenience of the passengers.
Currently, Apache Transit is only providing services for the San Carlos Local Route from San Carlos to Bylas. Yes, it also makes one stop at the Apache Gold Casino. Unfortunately, The Safford to Globe route is still suspended until further notice.
The Nnee Bich’o Nii Apache Transit Team is excited to be on the road, once again. They look forward to seeing the smiling eyes of their passengers. Masks are required to ride the bus. If you do not have one, the drivers will greatly provide you with a new one. For more information on the bus route, please contact Apache Transit at 928-475-5023.
