Staffing shortage forcing Kaua‘i Bus to suspend Sunday service starting later this month

Kaua‘i Bus will suspend all bus services on Sundays, including paratransit, starting Aug. 27 because of an ongoing staffing shortage.

“Despite increased efforts to fill our vacant positions, the ongoing staffing shortage has continued to intensify,” said Celia Mahikoa, executive for the Kaua‘i County Transportation Agency. “We understand that many riders in our community rely on our service, so this decision was not made lightly. All other reasonable options have been expended.”

After conducting a thorough review of operations, officials determined Sunday bus service receives the lowest ridership of the week, with an average of 10 passengers per route. An average of 25 passengers per route use Kaua‘i Bus on weekdays and an average of 13 passengers per route use services on Saturdays.

“The temporary removal of Sunday service will help maintain reliable scheduled bus service throughout the week, while minimizing the negative effects on bus riders and our current bus drivers,” Mahikoa said.

Kaua‘i Bus currently has 49 bus drivers on staff; however, only 43 are on active rotation. The agency has eight vacant driver positions available and is actively seeking applicants.

Sunday bus service will remain suspended until staffing has returned to sufficient levels.

If you or anyone you know is interested in applying for a bus driver position, click here.