Crisis Looms as Greyhound: Around 60 million people who rely on intercity buses, an essential but often overlooked part of the U.S. transportation system, are facing a growing crisis. Bus terminals of major operators like Greyhound, Trailways, and Megabus are rapidly closing in cities across the country, impacting the comprehensive network of national bus routes.
The closures, driven by high operating costs, government underfunding, and the entrance of investment firms like Alden Global Capital buying up valuable real estate for resale, pose a threat to the intercity bus system. Greyhound, the largest carrier, has been actively selling its terminals to investors, accelerating the closures.
The closures have disproportionately affected low-income and mobility-challenged citizens who rely on bus services. Greyhound’s terminal closures in one state have led to the suspension of services in others, disrupting the national bus network. The ripple effect includes inconvenience for travelers who can’t access facilities like bathrooms, shelter, or food while waiting for buses, especially during inclement weather.
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The impact of terminal closures extends beyond inconvenience, contributing to issues like homelessness and crime around neglected properties. Attempts to switch to curbside service often result in increased traffic, pollution, and frustration for local businesses.
While intercity bus travel has been a neglected mode of transportation for decades, the recent terminal closures highlight the urgent need for public-sector involvement and support. Some cities, like Atlanta, have embraced a promising model by providing financial support for dedicated bus terminals, ensuring continued service and better access to public transit.
The crisis underscores the necessity for innovative solutions and increased public-sector engagement to address the challenges faced by intercity bus travel. Without proactive measures, the cascading problems resulting from terminal closures are likely to persist, impacting communities across the U.S.