Macomb, IL – Western Illinois University's Go West transit system has hit another milestone. Go West is celebrating its 10th anniversary, less than one year after celebrating its 10-millionth rider.
Pete Hannen has been a driver for Go West since its first day of service on February 22, 1999. Hannen says it's been fun watching Go West grow over the years. "There are so many different events and so many different things when you're out," says Hannen. "I think when a bird hit my window and broke it, that was an important day. It's just a lot of different things going on. And so many people you meet and so many different experiences."
Hannen says Go West has benefited from Western being a walking campus. "A lot of people think that's bad for buses, when really it is good," says Hannen. "We really are a part of the pedestrian set up."
Hannen is still a driver for Go West, but is also a line supervisor. Hannen describes his experience at Go West as "quite a ride."
Go West Director Jude Kiah thanked all the bus drivers for their dedication and service to Go West. "In 10 years and 11.5 million riders later, Go West has never had an at-fault pedestrian accident," says Kiah. "We have never had to have a situation like the University of Illinois or like Iowa State has had, where people have been killed by our buses. That is strictly because our drivers take it upon themselves every day, to make sure that the safety of people around them is paramount."
Go West started with 3 buses, 2 routes, and 6 staff members. Today there are 9 routes, 15 buses, and 75 staff members.