The PRT transports students and the community around the WVU campus
The
West Virginia University
Personal
Rapid Transit system resumed operations today (Aug. 9), in time for Welcome Week
activities.
The PRT came back online for passengers as part of the second phase of a multi-year modernization plan which is designed to upgrade and replace all electronics and train control systems - in essence, everything except the tracks and cars.
Full-scale testing took place during the summer, but without passengers, according to WVU Director of Transportation and Parking Clement Solomon. “Once passengers are introduced to the system, we anticipate scenarios that we could not test for,” Solomon cautioned. “A project like this is bound to have some bugs which we will work to address as quickly as we can.”
Passengers will also notice changes at the PRT station platforms such as new digital signs and entry gates. Additional safety signs have also been installed.
“The most common problems we see are related to passenger interaction,” Solomon said. He reminded passengers to avoid attempts to overload a car, hold doors open, or kick the doors or windows. Also, they should be sure all items are clear of the doorway after entering a PRT car.
Solomon noted cameras are located throughout the PRT system in order to monitor any issues or problems that arise.
The PRT will operate on a modified schedule during Welcome Week and will resume a normal schedule Wednesday, Aug. 15, the first day of classes. Hours will be 6:30 a.m. to 10:15 p.m., Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and closed on Sunday.
Buses and campus shuttles are also available.
Additionally, the University has partnered again with Mountain Line Transit Authority to provide service to the campus community. For more details on routes and schedules, visit http://www.busride.org/.
-WVU-
ak/08/09/18
CONTACT: Phoenicia Keffer,
Public Relations Manager, WVU Transportation and Parking
304.293.5147
Follow @WVUToday on Twitter