Welcome to AITS, the program designed to provide qualified agricultural workers in Kings, Tulare and Fresno Counties with safe, affordable vans they can use to drive themselves and others to work.
WHAT IS AITS?
It's the Agricultural Industries Transportation Services project, or AITS for short.
Who is the AITS program sponsored by?
Sponsored by the Kings County Area Public Transit Agency.
What is the purpose/goal of AITS?
AITS has one simple goal: to provide qualified agricultural workers in Kings, Tulare and Fresno Counties with safe, affordable vans they can use to drive themselves and others to work.
What is the cost to employers?
Participation in the program is free to employers.
What is the cost to the drivers and workers?
A one-time start-up grant provided money to set-up the AITS program and purchase the 15-passenger vans. The money to sustain and expand the program comes from the riders themselves. Workers pay a modest fee to ride an AITS vanpool. Far less than the $5 per day most workers must pay to ride in an unsafe, unreliable vehicle. The payments cover the AgencyÕs cost of maintaining and insuring the vans, as well as the cost of replacing them when they wear out. The drivers receive no pay -- theyÕre simply farm workers who volunteer to operate a vanpool. And enjoy the benefits of a safe, affordable, reliable commute to work.
How does the program ensure safety behind the wheel?
Vanpool drivers must have a Class C licenseÉpass a required physicalÉand provide a DMV printout showing proof of a clean driving record. The vans themselves are also equipped for safety. Each one is outfitted with a Global Positioning System, so the driver can locate help should an emergency arise. The vans also carry first aid kits, fire extinguishers and roadside safety items. And for maximum peace of mind, every van in the program is fully covered by a $2 million insurance policy.
What about the processors now using the AITS program?
They say it's making a big difference to their bottom line.
As more employers and workers learn about AITS, the program is growing in both size and popularity.
The program is seeking to reach workers who are having trouble getting to work, or may be paying for rides that are unsafe. Through radio announcements and information booths, the Agency is actively spreading the word about the program. As you stated earlier, the AITS program costs employers nothing. It's a no-profit transit organization.
If you'd like to bring the benefits of AITS to your operation, contact the Kings County Area Public Transit Agency at 866-655-5444.
Don't let worker absenteeism take a toll on your nerves or your bottom line. Get your employees to work safely and reliably at no cost to you. Get them into the AITS program!