Wake School Bus Fleet to Get Re-Inspection

In a scoring system where zero is perfect, Wake County school buses went from 39 in 2001 to 94 in 2006. Maintenance problems ranged from low fluid levels and non-working dashboard lights to fuel leaks and faulty emergency exits.

Inspectors also found discrepancies with inventory of bus parts.

With nearly 840 buses that travel more than 14 million miles a year, school leaders said it was tough to keep up. Now, they are concentrating manpower on upkeep.

Employees are now spending more time inspecting buses for problems. Some mechanics are even working on Saturdays to catch up on the workload. The district also plans to hire six mechanics.