LSU Introduces Night Express Bus Service to Ensure Student Safety
LSU’s office of parking and transportation services has announced the launch of a new Night Express bus service, aimed at enhancing student safety during late-night hours. This initiative comes in response to concerns raised by students who have expressed unease about walking to and from Tigerland, a popular area near the university campus. The Night Express service, set to commence on September 14th, will operate on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m.
The Night Express service will run two routes, catering to students leaving the bars of Tigerland. The Tigerland East route will include stops at fraternities on Dalrymple Drive, Laville Hall, and West Campus Apartments. Meanwhile, the Tigerland West route will have stops at fraternities, Sorority Row, and Canal Hall. Notably, security officers will be present at each stop to provide assistance and ensure a safe environment for students using the service.
It is worth mentioning that the provision of the Night Express service addresses a long-standing concern about student safety in Tigerland, spurred by tragic incidents such as the death of Madison Brooks, who was assaulted and struck by a car after a night at a local bar. This service intends to mitigate such risks and provide a reliable transportation alternative for students returning to campus during late hours.
The introduction of the Night Express bus service also aligns with the efforts of former LSU landscape architecture student Taylor LaSorsa. As part of her senior capstone project, LaSorsa aimed to improve safety in the Tigerland area, inspired by the loss of her friend Sarah James, who was killed in a car accident near the busy intersection of Nicholson Drive and Bob Pettit Boulevard. LaSorsa’s plan proposes enhancements along Nicholson Drive through collaboration with city-parish initiatives like MovEBR. The plan includes measures such as reduced parking and the implementation of a roundabout to facilitate quicker drop-offs and pickups, discouraging drinking and driving in the process.
To make use of the Night Express service, students need to be aware of its operational hours. It is important to note that the service will not be available during reduced service hours, university holidays and closures, or on days when LSU hosts home football games. This scheduling ensures efficient allocation of resources while taking into consideration peak demand and logistical constraints.
LSU’s Night Express bus service represents a proactive step towards prioritizing student safety and well-being. By providing a convenient and secure transportation option, the university aims to address the concerns of students who have previously felt unsafe walking to and from Tigerland. With security officers stationed at each stop, students can now have peace of mind as they make their way back to campus during the evening hours. Moreover, this initiative serves as a testament to the university’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for its student community.
In conclusion, LSU’s introduction of the Night Express bus service exemplifies a responsive approach to student safety concerns. By addressing the need for safer transportation options during late-night hours, the university is taking strong measures to support students and ensure their well-being. With the Night Express now available, students can enjoy a reliable and secure journey back to campus, easing worries and promoting a safer campus experience for all.
