Alexandria’s DASH — riding tips and information about the public bus system

DASH (Driving Alexandrians Safely Home) buses are seen around, across and near the city of Alexandria, Virginia. The City of Alexandria wholly owns the DASH bus system and operates the system as a non-profit public service cooperation. But day to day management of the system is provided by Alexandria Transit Company.

If you’re new to the area, you’ll soon find out what others already know.  The DASH buses are a clean, safe and effective way to get about the city.  Boarding the bus is simple and easy. When the bus arrives, just step into the bus and then deposit the exact fare or use your WMATA SmarTrip card. If you have any questions about routes or transfers, ask the driver and then take a seat. On some of the most popular routes or during rush hours, there might not be any available seats. In that case just move as far to the rear of the bus as possible. This makes it easier for others to board easily.

Be aware that the bus driver doesn’t always stop at all bus stops!  To signal to the driver that your stop is approaching, press the yellow signal strip or pull the bell cord. It’s best to do this about a block from your destination so the driver has timely notice to stop at the next bus stop. When you are exiting the bus the rear door is easiest because others may be waiting to board through the front door.

DASH has great service because it has great employees but also because area passengers observe a few simple rules of safety and courtesy:

• There is no smoking, eating, or drinking allowed on the bus.
• Radios, I-pods and other devices may only be used if they cannot be heard by others
• There is a limited number of priority seats that are reserved for
  senior citizens and disabled persons. You may sit in these seats, but
  riders are expected to volunteer that seat if the seat is needed by a
  senior citizen or disabled person. If the bus is full, riders are
  expected to volunteer seats as needed.
• All passengers keep feet off passengers’ seats.

To maintain the high level of quality offered by DASH, drivers may refuse service to anyone who does not observe these rules or to anyone whose behavior is disruptive or hazardous to vehicle or passenger safety.

The manager of the DASH system, the Alexandria Transit Company (ATC), has been chosen by Metro Magazine as one of the top ten transit systems to work for in the United States. Metro Magazine identified the the top transit agency employers in the U.S. and Canada by survey employees from around the country. Alexandria Transit Company exhibit traits that are great for any employer:

• An open-door policy among managers;
• Relaxed, family atmosphere;
• Work-schedule flexibility;
• Strong employee recognition practices;
• Approachable senior executives;
• Opportunities for advancement;
• Lack of micro-management;
• Encouraging, supportive environment.

Metro Magazine is quoted saying, “the ability of transit systems to attract, hire, and retain top candidates to their organization hinges on their willingness and desire to become employers of choice in their communities.” In the Washington area, where there is a significant amount of competition in transportation jobs, Alexandria Transit has worked hard to be that employer of choice.

General Manager Sany Modell graciously commented on the achievement, “DASH prides itself on providing the highest level of customer service possible to its riders and its employees. If we treat our employees with respect and appreciation, they are more likely to treat our external customers with that same respect and appreciation.”