While the training prop turned out to be a bit of a stressful start to the week for affected westside riders it turns out that, “The prop was used in a training exercise that took place on the Big Blue Bus property in Santa Monica this weekend. Four props were used on four different Big Blue Buses. Two of the props were removed from buses prior to going back into service. In addition to the one reported by the Route 7 rider, another prop was removed from a Route 14 bus while in service on Culver Blvd. at Venice Blvd,” said an official statement from Big Blue Bus.
“The Big Blue Bus deeply regrets the inconvenience and concern caused by today’s incident,†said Suja Lowenthal, Government & Community Relations Manager for the Big Blue Bus.
All procedures were followed by Big Blue Personnel and other public servants: the bus operator called dispatch who explained that the box was a prop but then again, stuck to procedure and had passengers exit the vehicle. Then, the Los Angeles County Sheriff then sent out a bomb squad unit because they too followed procedure and must respond when a suspicious package is reported on a public street.
So, while there were passengers who were surely late to work, maybe the little box provided all concerned with an extra credit exercise. As Lowenthal also said, “We are grateful to our riders for being so alert and speaking up. We also extend our appreciation to L.A. County safety officials for their support in reassuring all riders that the buses are safe for regular service.â€
For more information on Big Blue Bus: www.smgov.net
