Transdev operator’s care for his customers is evident all year long
From the outside, Duane Murphy’s bus is no different from any other rolling through the streets of Arvada, Aurora, Denver or Lakewood.It’s only when you step onto the vehicle that you realize this is THAT bus – and you are transported to a whole new world.
Behold: illuminated lanterns and tinsel for Christmas; orange light strings and honeycomb turkeys for Thanksgiving;red, white and blue bunting and star lights for Veterans Day. Murphy, who operates Routes 3, 130 and 52 for RTD through contractor Transdev, decorates the bus to which he is assigned for every major American holiday, including Independence Day, Memorial Day, Halloween, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Day and New Year’s Day.
Murphy displays most décor just a day or two, although his Christmas decorations extend a full two weeks. Because he drives a different bus each shift, he carries these items in a bag and takes 10 to 15 minutes to set them in place before his shift starts. Take-down at the end of the day goes faster, Murphy said. He finds most decorations at dollar stores.
“My philosophy is, ‘My bus is my office space, and I want to be proud of what I am in,’” said Murphy, who joined Transdev close to two years ago. “For my 10-hour shift, I want to be happy, and all my passengers want to be happy.”
In December, patrons receive candy canes when they board. Children are handed a ring pop or lollipop any time of year.
Murphy takes pride in providing his customers with a space that is clean and welcoming. He places an air freshener by the back door that automatically dispenses every few minutes. If a customer tracks leaves into the bus on the bottom of a shoe, Murphy uses his recovery time to remove the material, using a broom and dustpan in his backpack.
“That’s just how I am,” he said. “I care. I care about who gets on and off the bus.”
Customers notice Murphy’s diligence, said Alexander Brink, Transdev Denver North General Manager.“Duane’s recent commendations include comments on his Halloween décor to keep customers in good spirit, notes on his professional appearance and attitude, as well as just genuine ‘thank-yous’ for his kindness,” he said.
Murphy’s desire to serve others was honed during 30 years in the food industry. Decorating for the holidays was understood in these settings, he said – and a pleasant, inviting atmosphere sets an establishment apart. The same philosophy applies to his bus, Murphy said: While customers are with him for just a few minutes of their day, “I want the atmosphere to be nice.”
Murphy’s bus has developed a reputation, and he enjoys the recognition customers show when they step aboard. Some ask who did the decorating. Others smile and say: “‘I’ve heard about this party bus,’” he said, grinning. “And then I get passengers that get on (and say): ‘You’re the guy who usually does it for Halloween!’ I said, ‘Yeah – I do it all.’”