The Grand Valley State University Department of Public Safety has confirmed that a lost Laker Line bus is what left the deep tracks in the Kirkhof Center’s east lawn. 

An incident report was made to GVPD Sunday, March 15 at approximately 3:30 am. A police report was filed that morning and the bus driver was cited. Facility Services is working to repair the deep tracks left by the bus. 

Assistant Director of Public Safety and Captain Leah Heaton said the driver missed their original turn and was trying to return to the Kirkhof Center. 

“We got a call that there (was) a bus behind Kirkhof, which seemed odd,” Heaton said. “A bus behind Kirkhof? No way. Sure enough, it was there.”

The Laker Line routes are pre-planned with set schedules, and one of the primary drop-off locations is the Kirkhof Center. Heaton said the incident, as well as its damages, were in no way malicious or planned.

“It was more of a missed turn and then trying to find their way back to Kirkhof,” Heaton said. “I assume they’re unfamiliar once they deviate from the route.”

The Rapid, Grand Rapids’ public transit system, is liable in the accident.

“We are seeking compensation for the damages from The Rapid for the restoration,” said Grounds Manager and Arborist Steve Snell. 

The early stages of repairing the lawn have begun, but could take multiple weeks, potentially leading into the spring/summer semester.

“The restoration of the area will take a bit because of the possible damage to the irrigation system and the drain tile, which is all located underneath those bus tracks,” Snell said. 

Snell says the reconstruction process requires a systematic approach to ensure that the soil is properly compacted while accommodating the underground systems that must stay intact. Once these conditions are met, new grass will be installed.