As the City of Mobile gears up to implement substantial changes to its public transportation network, FOX10 News conducted an on-the-ground assessment of the existing Wave Transit System. This investigation aims to understand the current operational status before the planned improvements take effect.

Testing the Current Commute Reality

A Short Trip Under Scrutiny

To gauge real-world performance, FOX10 News attempted a standard commute from its studios near McGowin Park to Mobile Government Plaza. By car, this journey usually takes approximately 15 minutes without significant traffic congestion.

Based on the Wave Transit System's published schedule, the trip, requiring no transfers, was projected to take slightly over 30 minutes. However, the No. 12 bus arrived seven minutes behind schedule at the stop located on Bolling Brothers Boulevard.

Ridership Challenges and Route Deviations

The journey provided insight into the difficulties facing city leaders and Via Transportation as they work to redesign the network. Unlike many other routes that run nearly empty, this particular bus was completely full.

The overcrowding was so severe that the driver was forced to deny boarding to a large group waiting at a stop along Government Street. Before the major overhaul begins, Via Transportation has already initiated minor operational adjustments.

Official Outlook on System Performance

Improvements Noted Amid Glitches

Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis stated that the system's adherence to schedules has already shown considerable improvement. Despite these positive steps, the ride revealed that operational glitches persist within the current framework.

The specific route ridden by FOX10 News was the No. 12, which travels between Tillman’s Corner, The Shoppes at Bel Air, and then proceeds downtown via Airport Boulevard and Government Street.

Unexpected Detour to End the Ride

Before reaching the intended destination of Government Plaza, the bus took an unscheduled turn onto Broad Street. At this point, the service was so delayed that the driver had no alternative but to proceed directly to the route's final stop at the GM&O Building to reset the schedule.

Consequently, any passengers needing to reach Government Plaza would have needed to catch the bus traveling in the outbound direction.