Tuscaloosa, Alabama, August 1, 2025
News Summary
The University of Alabama has partnered with Starr Bus Charters to introduce an airport transit program for students, addressing transport needs during peak travel times. The service will provide shuttles to major airports, including Atlanta and Birmingham, with prices ranging from $40 to $140. This initiative fulfills promises made by SGA President Lucy Bonhaus, aiming to improve accessibility and affordability for students traveling home during busy holiday seasons.
Tuscaloosa, Alabama – UA Transportation has partnered with Starr Bus Charters and Tours to launch a new airport transit program specifically designed for students at the University of Alabama. This initiative addresses transportation needs as students travel to and from major airports, fulfilling significant campaign promises made by Student Government Association (SGA) President Lucy Bonhaus.
The newly established program will offer shuttle services to Atlanta and Birmingham airports, in addition to providing transportation to cities such as Huntsville and Nashville. Pricing for these shuttle rides ranges from $40 to $140, depending on the destination.
Starr Bus Charters has been operating the College Break Bus program since 2018, helping students navigate their travel needs during busy holiday seasons. The initiative was inspired by the experiences of the company’s owner, Sandy Borowsky, after her son departed for college. Following its success, the program expanded to include the University of Alabama, where interest had surged among local students.
James Knickrhem, the associate director of transportation services at UA, remarked on the lack of cost-efficient previous airport shuttle services. He highlighted that the current campus buses are unsuitable for highway travel, which presented significant logistical challenges for students needing airport access. A similar shuttle service was attempted about a decade ago; however, it ceased operations due to feasibility issues and insufficient utilization.
Bonhaus emphasized that providing discounted transportation options was an essential commitment outlined during her campaign. The establishment of this partnership reflects the administration’s dedication to responsive leadership and meeting the transportation needs of students.
The introduction of this airport transit program is expected to significantly improve accessibility for University of Alabama students during peak travel periods, ensuring that they have reliable and affordable transportation options amidst the busy holiday travel seasons.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Partnership | UA Transportation partners with Starr Bus Charters for airport transit |
| Airports Served | Atlanta, Birmingham, with additional services to Huntsville and Nashville |
| Pricing | Ranging from $40 to $140 based on destination |
| Service Launch | Initiative supports SGA President Lucy Bonhaus’s campaign goal |
| Background | Previous shuttle services ceased due to feasibility issues; new initiative aims to improve accessibility |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new student airport transit program?
The student airport transit program is a new initiative by UA Transportation in partnership with Starr Bus Charters to provide affordable transportation to and from major airports for University of Alabama students.
How much does the transit service cost?
Prices for rides range between $40 and $140, depending on the location of the destination.
What airports are included in the service?
The service includes transportation to Atlanta and Birmingham airports, as well as to Huntsville and Nashville.
When does the service start?
The service is expected to improve accessibility for students during peak holiday travel times, although specific start dates were not provided.
Why was this program initiated?
The program was developed to meet the transportation needs of students and fulfill campaign commitments made by SGA President Lucy Bonhaus.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- The Crimson White: Alabama Men’s Basketball Transfer Preview
- 247 Sports: Alabama Basketball 2025 Offseason Transfer Portal
- AL.com: Alabama Basketball Lands Award-Winning Transfer Portal Forward Commitment
- Bama Hammer: Alabama Basketball Roster Tracker
- Tuscaloosa News: Alabama Basketball 2025-26 Roster Tracker
- Wikipedia: University of Alabama
- Google Search: Alabama basketball
- Google Scholar: Alabama basketball
- Encyclopedia Britannica: College Basketball
- Google News: Alabama basketball
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