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Go West Director Jude Kiah, left, and WIU President Al Goldfarb congratulate Amy Brehm, Go West's 10 millionth rider. Brehm was recognized at a reception April 2.
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Macomb Student is 10 Millionth Go West Rider

April 2, 2008

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MACOMB, IL -- Amy Brehm, a Western Illinois University senior law enforcement and justice administration student from Macomb, has earned a unique distinction during her academic career: being the 10 millionth person to board a Go West bus.

Brehm was recognized as the system's 10 millionth rider at a reception today (April 2). Go West Director Jude Kiah presented Brehm with a Go West jacket, lanyard, hat and a $100 University Bookstore gift certificate to commemorate the event.

"I ride the bus pretty much every day. I like Go West because it's a fun way to get around campus, not to mention you don't get rained on and the buses are always toasty in the winter," Brehm said. "You can read or do homework while riding and I also love being able to be in contact with other students on campus. Also, getting on the bus in the morning is an awesome way to start the day because of the pleasant greetings from most of the bus drivers; plus it definitely beats walking across Q-Lot!"

What started with three buses and two routes in 1999 has grown to a fleet of 26 and 11 routes. And as the number of busses and routes increases, so does the number of people riding. Kiah said the system is currently carrying more than 55,000 riders each week.

In addition to the 10 millionth rider celebration, Kiah also noted that the system was recently one of 10 transit systems -- and the only rural fixed route system -- in the U.S. honored by the Federal Transit Administration Award for Success in Enhancing Ridership. Kiah also discussed Go West's future.

"Today is a special day for Go West. With our 10 millionth rider and our national recogntion, we've advanced from our infancy and into our adolescence. We've come a long way and accomplished things not even the most optimistic observer could have predicted," Kiah added. "Now is the time for us to continue growing and work on our infrastructure. I'm excited that in a time when the community is focused on sustainability and social responsibility, we are able to provide both with comprehensive public transportation. It just proves what can be done in rural America with teamwork and cooperation."

For more information on Go West, including bus routes, schedules and fares, visit gowest.wiu.edu.






Posted By: Darcie Shinberger (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing