Quakertown keeps longtime bus provider, with conditions attached
The Quakertown Community School District board voted March 26 to renew its transportation contract with Levy School Bus Company, keeping the longtime local provider in place after weeks of uncertainty and public debate.
The decision came after the district explored bids from multiple companies, including national operators, amid concerns about service disruptions and driver shortages that have affected districts across the region since the pandemic, according to PhillyBurbs. Ultimately, several board members said those challenges were not unique to Levy and would likely persist regardless of the provider.
According to the report, board President David O’Donnell acknowledged the unusually high level of public engagement leading up to the vote, noting that emails and feedback from residents were closely reviewed.
Many in the community had urged the district to retain Levy, citing its nearly century-long presence in Quakertown and its roster of local drivers familiar with students and routes.
Some board members indicated they were initially open to switching vendors but shifted their stance following additional discussions and assurances from Levy leadership that operational issues would be addressed, according to the report.
The final vote was 7-0 with one abstention, drawing applause from attendees at the meeting.
The renewal is not yet final, however, as it remains contingent on successful contract negotiations between the district and Levy.
Tony Di Domizio is the managing editor of CentralBucksNow. Email him at [email protected].
