Ketchikan's The Bus improves staff and rider communication with Swiftly
Ketchikan had two primary goals
Goal 1:
Provide a streamlined, resilient operational system to the team
See improved operationsGoal 2:
Bring high-quality, accurate real-time data to riders
Check out rider impactThe Bus at a glance
Ketchikan, AK
Fleet of 12 buses
453k annual passenger trips
Goal 1: Provide a streamlined, resilient operational system to the team
Products:
Live Operations
Service Adjustments
Onboard App
Outcomes:
4.4k service adjustments communicated in March 2025, mostly in response to a landslide
Staff get real-time vehicle assignment and location for daily and emergency operations
Operators access modern navigation and schedule adherence information from tablet-based Onboard App
“
We rely on Service Adjustments almost daily. Whether we’re implementing major detours or temporarily suspending service to certain areas, this tool allows us to clearly communicate with the public—not just that a stop is closed, but exactly where the bus is going.”
—Stephanie Bushong, Deputy Director
“
We use Onboard App so frequently that it’s become a bit of an inside joke. When a driver asks, ‘Am I supposed to do this?’—the answer is always the same: ‘Just follow the tablet.’”
—Vanessa Gossman, Operations Supervisor
Learn moreGoal 2: Bring high-quality, accurate real-time data to riders
Products:
Real-Time Passenger Predictions
Service Adjustments
Rider Alerts
Outcomes:
10% more real-time data captured
Fewer "Where's my bus?" calls
Increased ridership from both local residents and visitors
Reliable service provided even after emergencies
“
The communication aspect has been exceptional. Many visitors may have never used public transit before, so providing them with access to information through platforms like Google Maps or the Transit app, tools they’re already familiar with, is absolutely essential. This is how we effectively serve the public, and this is how we ensure consistency in doing so.”
—Kyan Reeve, Transit Director
Learn moreSee the impact at your agency
Contact us for a look at how we can improve your agency's proactive operations and passenger information.
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