[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 176 (Wednesday, November 19, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2255]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   RECOGNIZING THE UNIVERSITY TRANSPORT SYSTEM OF THE UNIVERSITY OF 
    CALIFORNIA, DAVIS ON THE OCCASION OF CARRYING ITS 50 MILLIONTH 
                               PASSENGER

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. THOMPSON. of California. Madam Speaker, I rise day to recognize 
the University Transport System of the University of California, Davis 
or Unitrans, as it is known to its riders. For over forty years, 
Unitrans has served both UC Davis and the broader Davis community, and 
is celebrating the boarding of its 50 millionth rider this year.
  Founded in 1968 to support a growing UC Davis community, Unitrans has 
helped the University and the City of Davis grow and flourish. 
Originally, Unitrans had only two vintage double-decker London buses, 
which have become the most recognizable symbols of their presence in 
the community. The system is also notable because UC Davis students are 
almost entirely responsible for the day to day operations of Unitrans. 
All Unitrans drivers are undergraduate students and they are known for 
their professionalism and dedication to ensuring the system runs 
smoothly. Today, Unitrans has 49 buses servicing 14 routes and carries 
three million passengers every year.
  The facts about the benefits of public transportation are clear. Bus 
systems produce half as much carbon dioxide and substantially fewer 
emissions per passenger mile driven than private vehicles. By providing 
convenient access to public transportation, Unitrans is helping to keep 
our air clean and reduce traffic on our streets. Unitrans has also led 
the way in supporting clean energy by using compressed natural gas to 
fuel 90 percent of their buses. As our nation continues to work to 
fight global climate change, Unitrans provides an excellent example of 
how we can reduce our environmental impact and our carbon footprint.
  Madam Speaker, it is fitting at this time that we recognize the 
dedication and hard work of all the drivers, staff and riders who have 
made Unitrans such a success. Their efforts have been vital in 
supporting the growth of UC Davis, and we can expect that they will 
continue their service to the Davis community for many years to come.

                          ____________________