Increased student demand stretches Escort Service resources thin
The ASUA Escort Service had a record number of riders last month, prompting concerns from officials about the safe-ride service's funding.
"Right now, it's just getting busier and busier," said Christina Moshier, Associated Students Escort Service Director. "We have absolutely no idea (why)."
The Escort Service served 3,848 students last month, Moshier said. The student workers gave rides to about 200 students per night, and hit an all-time high on Monday with 284 calls.
"This month (March) is following the same trend," Moshier said. "Our resources can only stretch so far."
Moshier said the Escort Service is financially stable now and has "always been well-supported," but she is worried that it is growing too fast.
"(The increase) is a better idea for safety, but I worry we won't be able to handle it unless we get more (monetary) support," she said.
The Escort Service receives about $55,000 annually, but ASUA officials have projected that an additional $50,000 is needed to keep the service running efficiently.
She said the recent increase could be a result of better response times, which have averaged about 4.5 minutes.
Moshier also credited greater awareness about the service.
"Freshmen have more information by the spring (semester)," she said.
But more riders means more worries about the Escort Service's finances.
Moshier said ASUA will be adding a shuttle to its service after spring break, and are trying to purchase another golf cart.
"We're looking into getting more resources," she said.
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