With the nation’s current drivers retiring in large numbers, agencies need to cultivate a new generation of transit operators, a new report says.
The number of bus drivers across the US is declining as many retire or seek higher-paying private-sector jobs that require less in-person contact.
The shortage is creating a major challenge for transportation agencies as they try to revive their systems and win riders back after taking steep losses throughout the pandemic, according to a report by TransitCenter, a public transportation advocacy group, released on Wednesday. The report sheds light on the industry and what agencies can do to retain workers and attract younger drivers.
“While the culprits can vary from agency to agency, two causes stick out: an increased number of retirements by an aging workforce and difficulties recruiting and retaining new workers,” the report said.
Bloomberg CityLab
By Skylar Woodhouse
July 20, 2022