Reinstate the TransLoc Bus Tracking App at Ball State University

As students of Ball State University, we are deeply concerned about the sudden discontinuation of the TransLoc bus tracking app. This decision was made without any prior notice or alternative provided, leaving many of us without a vital tool that we rely on daily. For many students, including those without access to personal vehicles, the ability to track buses in real-time is essential for managing our schedules, attending classes on time, and ensuring we meet our commitments effectively.

It’s important to note that many students only discovered this change through social media platforms like YikYak, where one student mentioned they spoke with the university and were told the app was "not used" and is "not essential." However, the widespread concern and frustration among the student body clearly show that this is not the case. The TransLoc app was a crucial resource that many of us depended on, and its removal has created significant challenges.

As a new student, one of the reasons I chose Ball State was the ability to track buses, ensuring that I could navigate campus efficiently and make it to my classes on time. When the TransLoc app was removed, I personally asked numerous bus drivers if there was a paper map or a reliable schedule I could use instead, and they all said no. This lack of available information has left us uncertain about when and where buses will arrive, adding unnecessary stress to our daily routines.

We respectfully ask Ball State University to consider the following...

1. Bring Back the TransLoc App or Provide an Alternative System - We urge the university to reinstate the TransLoc app or introduce a comparable alternative that meets the needs of the student body.
2. Provide a Formal Statement - We request that the university issue a formal statement explaining the reasons behind the discontinuation of the app and the steps being taken to address the concerns of students who rely on bus tracking.
3. Ensure Future Transparency in Decision-Making - We hope the university will ensure better communication and transparency regarding any future changes to essential services, allowing students to prepare and adapt accordingly.

We believe that having access to reliable transportation information is not just a matter of convenience but a necessity for many students. We hope that the university will take these concerns seriously and work with us to find a solution that benefits everyone.

Pursuant to Ball State University policy, it is clearly disclosed that this petition is not sponsored or endorsed by the University.

Trans People for TransLoc (on YikYak)    Contact the author of the petition