APTA | Passenger Transport
January 17, 2011

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NEWS HEADLINES

Sun Tran Provided Free Service to Arizona Memorial Event

Sun Tran in Tucson, AZ, and its bus operators—members of Teamsters Union Local 104—provided more than 3,000 free passenger trips to the Jan. 12 memorial event on the University of Arizona campus honoring the victims of the Jan. 8 mass shooting in the city. Passengers were able to park free at two locations and take the shuttles to and from McKale Center on campus.

“It’s gratifying to be able to help,” said Katrina Heineking, general manager of Sun Tran and Sun Van paratransit. She said Sun Tran began receiving calls about service to the memorial event, attended by President Barack Obama, as soon as it was announced.

“Because we’re dealing with a budget crisis, we called the Teamsters leadership—just to throw out the idea, which has never happened before, if they would be interested in volunteering their time to run shuttles if they would be needed. The leadership immediately said they would like to help; they are part of the community,” she continued.

According to Heineking, Sun Tran employees worked through the night to secure park-and-ride locations and connect with transportation agencies at the city and the university, as well as the U.S. Secret Service.

In addition, in a show of support to the victims and their families, Sun Tran picked up the theme of the event, “Together We Thrive,” and added it to the header signs of all its vehicles—Sun Tran, Sun Van, and Sun Shuttle—the day of the ceremonies.

Andy Marshall, Teamsters Local 104 principal executive officer, added: “We realize Tucsonans need to heal from this tragic event, and we’re humbled by the opportunity to volunteer for our neighbors during this difficult time.”

Heineking also noted that the tragedy has personally affected one Sun Tran employee. Coach operator Rod Wilson is the son-in-law of Dorwan and Mavanell (Mavy) Stoddard, who were shot during the “Congress on Your Corner” event. Dorwan Stoddard died of his injuries, while Mavy has been released from the hospital.

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