The political context of this project proved to be more complex than expected. This has to do with the unique relationship between stakeholders. While Public Safety oversees and controls the LCAT routes and pickup locations, the Athletic Department is responsible for paying for the expenses involved with the Metzgar route. The LCAT shuttle that transports students from campus to both Metzgar Fields and the Intramural Fields holds the potential to not only induce sustainable travel, but also facilitate participation from the student body in sporting events. These changes are influenced by specific policies and limitations that are in place within the LCAT system.
To Whom Is This a Concern?
As it stands right now, the way the LCAT is functioning now is not only wasting emissions, but money as well. Gas, outsourced drivers, and upkeep of the shuttle are just a few of the slots money is being poured into. Unfortunately, this route is not so easily thrown away as it is required for the college to offer transportation to off-campus facilities for its students, especially student athletes. Due to this conundrum, there must be some form of travel offered by the school for students who may not have the means of personal transportation. It is for this purpose that LCAT ridership must be increased so that the school no longer views it as throwing money out the window.
Another thing that the LCAT wastes is the potential for it to profit from athletics attendance by fans. More specifically, the Athletic Department would benefit significantly if ridership of the LCAT increased from student fans supporting college sporting events. Not only does the LCAT offer free transportation to sporting events for students who can’t or rather not drive, but it would be a safe form of transportation for students who may be under the influence. Although it is not encouraged for students to ‘pregame’ athletic events, it is something that is likely and the school should have protective measures in place. Rather than paying for Ubers or Lyfts, the LCAT would provide safe transport. An increase in overall viewership at Metzgar Field competitions would bring in revenue from concessions which could prove quite fruitful for the Athletic Department. Even aside from the money, more fans at school sporting events would strengthen the Lafayette student community and culture.
Policies and Limitation
The process in which changes are made to the route is rather simple. Sandra Rogers, assistant director of Public Safety at Lafayette, detailed to us that when she feels there is sentiment from the community that change is necessary, she holds a hearing surrounding the situation. If there is reasonable evidence that alterations to the system are needed along with a strong proposal of how it should be changed, Public Safety makes adjustments. Due to the fact that the changes we want to implement are within the Metzgar route, the Athletic Department will be involved in this hearing and decision. The addition of the Athletic Department might complicate the process as it adds an additional stakeholder that has to be satisfied with the route adjustment. Luckily, in our discussion with Andrew Foster, Senior Associate Director of Athletics, he was very open and supportive to the idea of a route modification.