I read with some interest “SA opposes fee” (Nov. 5, p. 1), in which University Police Department Director Dolores Stafford claims she received no complaints regarding 4-RIDE service this semester. Perhaps UPD does not check their e-mail, because after my experience with them roughly two weeks ago, I certainly made a complaint.

On my way back from Dupont Circle, I called to request shuttle service from 19th and M streets to Thurston Hall. After receiving busy signals for five minutes and being put on hold, I was finally told to expect a shuttle in “several” minutes.

After waiting in the cold for 20 minutes, I called again and went through the same process – busy signals and hold – so I could be told “the shuttle is on the way.” When I asked for a more precise estimation of our expected wait, I was told “shortly.” After 20 minutes more of standing in the cold, we decided to walk home. I thought to call and notify UPD that we would not need the shuttle, but in the six-block walk home periodic attempts reached only busy signals.

I wonder if the situation will be the same in mid-January, in even colder temperatures, or if it would be the same if someone was alone and felt threatened.

-Benjamin Williams
freshman