ASU New Buses

Students, staff, faculty and administrators assembled on the corner of Hall Street and North University Drive on Feb. 18, to anticipate the university's latest purchase for student transportation.

Familiar drum beats and spirit music sounded as staff members of the Alabama State University Office of Transporation drove a fleet of new university buses to the campus.

Arriving at approximately 2:15 p.m., the four buses, which are decorated with the mascot, university trademark and various university landmarks on the exterior, was outfitted with television screens, global positioning systems, and Wi-Fi to increase internet capabilities within its interior.

According to Associate Executive Vice President Bernadette Chapple, the buses were purchased from ABC Bus Company in Winter Garden, Fla., and the price tag came to about $1.3 million which also included the cost of exterior designs.

"It is all a part of our Vision 2020," said Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Knight. "Our goal is to provide the best for our students."

President William H. Harris is happy with the addition of the new fleet of buses.

"We are delighted to have high-quality transportation for our students," Harris said.

Students are excited about the new buses.

"I remember when I first came to State and the old buses were not that great," said junior communications major Syquanea Seals. "We have come a long way and it is time for it."

"The buses look very nice," said Andrew Dennis, a first-year business management major. "It is a new look that will bring more attention to the school. I am ready for more changes like this to come in the future."