Jefferson City’s public transportation system, JeffTran, is actively seeking solutions to its persistent bus driver shortage by proposing a shift differential pay increase.
This initiative aims to attract and retain drivers, ensuring reliable service for the community.
Current Pay Structure and Proposed Changes
As of now, JeffTran drivers earn a starting hourly wage of $18.24. For shifts extending beyond ten hours, there’s an additional $0.50 per hour—a rate unchanged for nearly two decades.
The new proposal suggests increasing this differential to either $1.00 or $1.50 per hour for extended shifts. This adjustment is designed to reward drivers for their dedication and long hours on the road.
Comparison of Current and Proposed Shift Differential Pay
| Shift Duration | Current Additional Pay | Proposed Additional Pay |
|---|---|---|
| Over 10 hours | $0.50 per hour | $1.00 – $1.50 per hour |
Impact of Driver Shortage on Services
The driver shortage has significantly impacted JeffTran’s operations. In February 2023, the service was forced to adjust its six fixed routes into an alternating system, resulting in longer wait times for passengers.
By October 2023, with a full team of operators, JeffTran resumed regular operations. However, the challenge of maintaining adequate staffing levels persists.
Currently, JeffTran employs 16 drivers but requires 20 to be fully staffed. This shortfall has led to service disruptions and a notable decline in ridership.
Ridership Statistics
| Year | Number of Rides |
|---|---|
| 2022 | 159,210 |
| 2023 | 110,064 |
| 2024 | 130,711 |
The data indicates a sharp decrease in 2023, coinciding with the onset of the driver shortage. While there’s a slight recovery in 2024, numbers have yet to return to pre-shortage levels.
Efforts to Address the Shortage
In addition to the proposed pay increase, JeffTran has undertaken several measures:
- Overtime Opportunities: Drivers have been offered overtime to cover essential routes, ensuring that critical services remain operational.
- Adjusted Schedules: Lunch breaks have been shortened to maximize route coverage during peak hours.
- Recruitment Initiatives: Hiring events have been organized to attract new drivers, though some have faced postponements due to unforeseen circumstances.
Challenges in Recruitment
Despite these efforts, recruiting new drivers remains challenging. The demanding nature of the job, which often requires over 11-hour days, can be a deterrent.
The proposed shift differential pay aims to make these extended hours more appealing, offering better compensation for the commitment required.
JeffTran’s proactive approach to addressing the driver shortage through proposed pay increases and operational adjustments underscores its commitment to providing reliable public transportation.
By valuing and supporting its drivers, JeffTran strives to enhance service quality and restore rider confidence in Jefferson City’s transit system.