Public Transit

Over lunch today, Throck was telling me about her observations - riding the bus. Namely, that people riding the bus are relatively self-segregating - whites sit next to whites, black sit next to blacks, girls sit next to girls, homeless people sit next to homeless people, etc - basically evidencing and the existence of underlying societal racism.

So, as I boarded the bus today, I intended to don the hat of sociologist and observe. Though I must say the most stunning observation I made (which distracted me from my ultimate objective) was poor transit etiquette. It was really quite remarkable, as I paid attention, how rude and uncivilized some behave. So in order to enjoy a more pleasant public transit experience - I've proposed some etiquette guidelines for passengers.

1. Move to the back of the bus - yes all the way! (Unless you're only riding for 1 or 2 stops, you're elderly or disabled - get your ass to the back of the bus)

2. Even if you are standing, Move to the back of the bus. (same exceptions apply)

3. Only occupy ONE (1) seat on the bus. (Of course, if the bus is empty, spread out a little - BUT as the bus nears seating capacity, pull yourself together and make room for others)

4. When you bump into someone or need to get by them to alight from the bus - utilize a simple phrase such as "Pardon Me" or "Excuse Me" as opposed to the more commonly utilized Grunt & Ram method. (It's polite & it's good karma)

5. When using your cell phone on the bus - normal speaking volumes please - there is no need to scream. (The other passengers don't care what you are doing tonight or what you're boyfriend did to you last night - also anyone with a Nextel phone, please for the sake of humanity - throw it away - that whole walkie-talkie thing is annoying and very 4th grade.)

6. Please refrain from eating on the bus. (Undoubtedly you'll spill something when the bus hits a pothole and trust me - I, nor anybody else, wants to sit on a greasy french fry or in ketchup, mustard, etc.

7. Take your trash with you. (Buses aren't cleaned after the completion of every route - and people use the bus after you - BE courteous.)

8. Say "Thank You" to the bus driver - they spend all day driving people like you and me around town - simple pleasantries are certainly appreciated.

Simple adherence to these basic principle would make mass transit ridership in Allegheny County a much more pleasant experience.

Thank You!