Golden State Today

Unitrans’ 100 millionth rider, Gabriela Jimenez, expressed her excitement at receiving a lifetime pass to ride Unitrans, stating, “This is crazy — I’m not leaving Davis.” Jimenez, a third-year political science major, was randomly chosen while on her way to class and praised the transit system for its usefulness to students, mentioning, “I don’t have any other form of transportation.”

Unitrans' general manager, Jeff Flynn, highlighted the strong support from both the university and the wider Davis community for the transit system, which started with just two buses and now operates almost 50 buses. He commented on the event celebrating the milestone, noting the enthusiastic backing Unitrans receives.

Chancellor Gary S. May emphasized the valued partnership between UC Davis and ASUCD, calling it an embodiment of the strong relationship between the university and the community, making Davis California's ultimate college town.

Miriam Lopez-Hernandez, a second-year Chicana/o studies major and Unitrans driver, praised the friendly community atmosphere at Unitrans, stating, “It’s the friendliest community to be in.” Lopez-Hernandez also noted the support from the community, which was evident at the event where many non-students attended.

Former Unitrans employees, Mike and Shermain Hardesty, shared their memories of working for Unitrans in the 1970s, recalling challenges such as bus breakdowns and creative solutions like flying to London for spare parts. Mike Hardesty, who has been associated with Unitrans since its inception in 1968, commended the students and university for their continued support.

Unitrans, which started with only two routes and buses in 1968, now operates 18 routes with 48 buses. The transit system is set to add four more electric buses to its fleet this fall, bringing the total of electric buses to 14. With approximately 225 student employees, most of them drivers, Unitrans is projected to carry 20,000 riders each weekday during this academic year, following the transportation of 3 million riders last year.