BCT Makes a Statement: Eye-Catching Buses Drive Community Engagement

BY LAUNA CARBONELL
Acting Manager
Marketing, Communications, and Customer Relations
Broward County Transportation Department
Plantation, FL

Broward County Transit (BCT) is revving up ridership and community spirit with a fleet of dynamic buses that transform into rolling billboards for local celebrations. Forget the plain, vanilla buses of yesterday, BCT is turning heads with eye-catching wraps that celebrate everything from holidays to hometown sporting heroes. This innovative approach goes beyond just aesthetics, it’s about forging deeper connections with the people BCT serves.

“Broward County Transit is deeply committed to celebrating diversity and fostering a sense of community,” said Coree Cuff Lonergan, CEO/general manager. “We showcase this commitment by wrapping our buses for major events like Juneteenth, the Panthers’ championship run, and Pride. These initiatives enhance the rider experience while demonstrating our support for the vibrant communities we serve.”

Pop-Up Park & Ride: Taking Fans to Victory Lane

BCT’s innovative Pop-Up Park & Ride service wasn’t just about express service, it was about creating a seamless fan experience. Specially wrapped buses, emblazoned with Florida Panthers pride, became an extension of the team spirit. This convenient and affordable option not only reduced traffic congestion around Amerant Bank Arena, but also offered a sustainable way to cheer on the Cats.

Lonergan summed it up perfectly: “We were thrilled to be part of the Panthers’ historic run. Our wrapped buses added to the electric atmosphere and, more importantly, provided a hassle-free way for fans to experience these unforgettable moments.”

Celebrating Champions: A Parade Fit for Royalty

BCT didn’t stop after the final buzzer. To ensure fans could celebrate the Panthers’ historic NHL championship win in style, the agency offered special bus services for the championship parade. This express service allowed the community to come together and showcase their Panther pride without the worry of parking or traffic woes.

BCT’s partnership with the Florida Panthers is a shining example of how a public transit agency can go beyond its core function to become a true community champion.

Cheering for Cricket: World Cup Transportation

BCT’s commitment to supporting local and international sports events was also evident during the Cricket World Cup, which was hosted in Broward County. A specially wrapped bus celebrated the excitement of the event, providing fans with a vibrant and convenient transportation option to attend the games. This initiative not only celebrated cricket within the community, but also showcased BCT’s dedication to creating enjoyable and accessible experiences for all attendees.

Beyond the Bus: BCT’s Broader Impact

BCT’s commitment extends far beyond transportation solutions. Events like the Stonewall Wilton Manors Pride Parade, supported by BCT, generate significant social and economic benefits. The Pride Parade, attracting more than 50,000 attendees, contributed an estimated $6 million to the local economy. BCT’s colorful and inclusive bus wraps played a vital role in the vibrancy and success of these events.

Celebrating Freedom: Juneteenth on Wheels

BCT’s deep community engagement was evident during the recent Juneteenth celebration held at the Lauderhill Transit Center. A unique exhibition transformed a bus into a moving museum, adorned with Juneteenth imagery. This immersive experience educated attendees about the historical significance of Juneteenth, the day marking the emancipation of enslaved people.

More than a hundred community members, including families and children, participated in the event. The Juneteenth bus served as a backdrop for crafting activities and coloring pages and fostering a deeper understanding of the day’s importance. The enthusiastic participation and impressive turnout testified to the event’s success.

BCT: More Than Just a Ride

BCT’s wrapped buses are vibrant ambassadors, embodying the agency’s values of celebrating diversity, supporting local events, and enriching the community experience. By offering practical yet visually engaging transportation solutions, BCT continues to build strong connections with Broward County residents.

Looking Forward: Deepening Community Engagement

BCT is committed to further strengthening its involvement in community activities, with a focus on major events and parades. This ensures that public transportation remains an integrated and celebrated aspect of Broward County’s social fabric. Through participation in these celebrations and with each wrapped bus and supported event, BCT reaffirms its dedication to fostering community bonds and providing seamless transportation.