ChicagoDASH Discomfort - Seats Manufactured by IMMI

The ChicagoDASH buses have become more full and riders are having to double-up - creating even more uncomfortable rides between Valparaiso and Chicago.  Sitting alone in the ChicagoDASH seats is painful enough, but when passengers have to sit side-by-side, the discomfort goes to a new level. 

Seats by IMMI - Ouch!

The manufacturer of the seats that are installed on ChicagoDASH buses is IMMI.  The company is privately-held so there is little data on the relative sizes of the company's products, but based on the information that is available, IMMI has excelled in designing safer school bus seats.  While the company's efforts on this front are laudable, designing safe school bus seats, ones in which children sit for a relatively short period, doesn't necessarily mean that the company is able to design comfortable seats for long commutes by adults.  If the seats on the ChicagoDASH buses reflect IMMI's best work on coach bus seating, the company's future in this market isn't too bright.

The new buses: Where did the common sense go?

The new buses, purchased with $2.4 million of taxpayer funds, have a number of amenities that are primarily useful only on long trips.  These amenities include Internet access (via WiFi), power outlets to keep laptops charged, bathrooms, and satellite TV.  So WHY did officials approve seats that are perhaps the most uncomfortable I've experienced.  These seats are small, crammed, and extreme hard.  It's virtually impossible to sit comfortably for an extended period.  Where did the common sense go?  Let's get these seats fixed.

Look like this rider's comfortable?