A new streamlined bus schedule has been instituted in Albuquerque to combat a shortage of bus drivers a problem that persists not only locally, but nationwide. Some 25 out of the 30 routes normal have been impacted by the schedule changes, leaving passengers scrambling to find other options.
Sean Flory, who takes a bus to the University of New Mexico nearly every day, told KOB, knowing the new schedule is important. “If you miss a bus, it’s a lot longer in between the next one,” Flory said.
The Transit Department said there are currently about 80 bus driver openings and 29 openings for Sun Van drivers. Six routes have been completely cut.
Bus driver shortages began during the pandemic and have remained an issue. An ABQ Ride spokesperson told KOB an aging workforce is another factor in the bus driver shortage. Megan Holcomb of ABQ Ride said, “45% of the workforce for bus drivers are over the age of 55.”
The city is partnering with CNM to hire younger drivers by offering more incentives such as a $2,500 signing bonus up from $1,000 and starting pay has been increased to $19 an hour.
Chris Davis has been a bus driver for 15 years and likes his job. He told KOB the job has priceless perks and is all about “Opportunity, opportunity, opportunity.”
“This is my office, you like my office?” Davis told KOB, while sitting in the driver's seat of his bus. “Not a bad one – and I got a view that’s unbelievable.”
Those interested in becoming bus drivers can apply here. Applicants must have a valid driver’s license and successfully complete an in-house training program. ABQ RIDE, according to its website, offers many benefits for its employees and dependents, including competitive pay, medical, dental, and vision plans; job training and education benefits, and Retirement and deferred compensation plans