The 190X bus crisis is officially over the worst. There have been no reported cancellations of the 190X since the end of June marking a milestone improvement in the express bus service’s performance.
Ms Scruby has consistently and successfully lobbied for daily updates from the Minister’s office and for the 190X to be prioritised when managing cancellations, as this is the only direct route to the city for commuters north of Mona Vale. In the height of the crisis she negotiated set times for cancellations so people could plan their journeys in advance.
Last year the removal of 43 articulated “bendy” buses from Northern Beaches routes.
Repairs to the fleet began in April, and although only 13 are back in service, Ms Scruby has fought to ensure that the 190X is prioritised. This is reflected in zero cancellations over the last month.
Ms Scruby acknowledges there is still work to be done from addressing bus driver shortages, improving other routes including the 199, fighting for the full 2024 190X timetable to be restored and better real time data.
Quotes attributable to Ms Scruby:
“Investment announcements are great - but really the only thing that matters is commuters experience improvement. With a month of zero cancellations on the 190X even though not all buses are returned - I feel confident that it's time to celebrate.
“I want to thank the long-suffering commuters from North Avalon down to Narrabeen who use this service. Together we have kept up the pressure on Downer and TfNSW after services - or a lack of them - reached crisis point at the start of the year. Daily persistence is finally paying off.”
“My message is - buses are back - make sure you use the 190X and let’s get the full timetable restored.”
Quotes attributable to commuter - Adam Radcliffe (contact on request)
“I can honestly say, the 190X service has improved noticeably over the last few months. At the start of the year there were regularly 3 or 4 cancellations every weekday, but recently I have not seen any cancelled services to the City. I have also seen the bendy buses returning to the area, and I look forward to riding one again on the lengthy 190X route.
“Huge thanks to Jacqui Scruby for leaning in and escalating the service issue to Transport for NSW & Keolis Downer (the bus operators). Her involvement & attention has produced clear results.”