Overcrowded Buses

In reply to Joan Taylor’s letter (March 20):

Overcrowding in RTD buses is the No. 1 item on my agenda. We have been working with the Los Angeles County Transportation Commission since last September to obtain additional funds to field additional equipment to eliminate this basic problem.

Last Nov. 26, we announced the rollout of 20 additional buses on seven heavily-used routes. This month we will add 15 more buses to overcrowded lines. We know it’s not enough, but we’re going to do everything in our power to get the necessary funding to put more buses on the street.

As far as young patrons and others refusing to yield seats in the front portion of the bus to seniors and disabled persons, courtesy is an issue that starts with training in the home and in the school. Signs are up in the buses, and common courtesy should be extended by all passengers.

NICK PATSAOURAS

President, Board of Directors

Southern California Rapid Transit District

Los Angeles