The Big Blue Bus is stepping up its safety game with the introduction of its new Prohibition Order Program starting July 1. This move, powered by Senate Bill 1417, grants the Santa Monica Department of Transportation (SaMoDOT) the capacity to bar individuals with repeated policy violations or those with misdemeanor or felony convictions committed on public transit, from using the service for 30 days to a year.
Riding the waves of SB 1417, authored by Senator Ben Allen, the program isn't just about dropping the banhammer on unruly passengers. It also mandates the formation of an advisory committee focused on compassionate enforcement and calls for thorough training for those issuing the prohibition orders. In a statement obtained by Santa Monica's official press release, Department of Transportation Director Anuj Gupta expressed, "The Prohibition Order Program helps us ensure a safe and welcoming environment for Big Blue Bus riders and operators by giving us another tool to enforce our Customer Code of Conduct."
Under the umbrella of Big Blue Bus's broader customer experience program, the Prohibition Order Program joins forces with other initiatives such as Brighter Blue and the Better Blue Bus Stop project. Brighter Blue aims at offering more frequent services and extending operating hours, while the Better Blue Bus Stop project is set to improve bus stops with better lighting, seating, and accessibility features. As cited by the city's press release, this comprehensive plan is a cornerstone in the push to foster a sense of confidence among riders in the safety and reliability of the transit system.
Also integral to the safety matrix are the Big Blue Bus Transit Safety Officers, who tackle more than just security issues. These officers have been known to lend a helping hand with everything – fare payment, trip planning, and general navigation, not to mention upholding the Customer Code of Conduct. While emphasizing their intent to provide a friendly presence, their role in promoting adherence to conduct guidelines is a key pillar in the overall safety strategy laid out by Big Blue Bus. Adding to the sense of safety, upgrades like enhanced bus stop lighting and additional seating are anticipated, as detailed in the city's official announcement.
About Big Blue Bus: Serving the Santa Monica and Los Angeles area since 1928, Big Blue Bus operates a fleet of vehicles across a substantial service area, and is recognized for its commitment to reducing environmental impact. It boasts awards for its marketing, customer service, safety, and efficiency, and it's actively working towards a zero emissions fleet by 2032. As of now, over 20 buses in the Big Blue Bus fleet are battery electric, with the rest using alternative fuels aimed at significantly cutting emissions.
