UA Confirms New Transportation Partner Following First Transit Closure

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The University of Alabama has selected Groome Transportation as its new campus transit provider after its longtime partner announced plans to close at the end of the year.

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As Patch previously reported, this follows news that longtime transportation partner First Transit, operating as Transdev, plans to close its Tuscaloosa operation and eliminate 88 jobs.

In statements provided to Patch, both UA and Groome Transportation confirmed the change, while indicating that current employees will have opportunities to continue working under the new company.

"Groome has been selected as the new provider for campus transportation services after a competitive procurement process, and has been in communication with Transdev, or First Transit, employees on campus," UA said in its statement.

The university also said it understands that all current drivers and maintenance technicians will be offered the opportunity to transition to Groome.

"The transition for campus is planned with no disruption to Crimson Ride," UA said.

Groome Transportation said it is already working to retain employees currently serving the university, including drivers, supervisors and maintenance technicians.

"Groome Transportation is thrilled to be chosen as the University of Alabama's new transit services partner," the company said. "With a long history of delivering best-in-class transportation services to universities, Groome understands that great service begins with great employees."

The company said its transition plan includes working toward employment offers for all qualified drivers, supervisors and maintenance technicians currently serving UA, adding that those efforts are already well underway.

"We expect a seamless transition for employees, the University, and the campus community, with no interruption in service," Groome said.

The company also expressed optimism about its new partnership with UA.

"We are excited to welcome these employees to the Groome team and look forward to a successful long-term partnership supporting UA's campus shuttle operations," Groome said.

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