The Transit Service Advisory Group has implemented several pilot programs and changes in transportation service for Penn riders.

The changes, which took effect Aug. 28, include extending PennBus East service during non-rush hours and adding an additional stop during the peak hours of 6 to 8 p.m.

Six new vehicles with more seats have also been added to the fleet.

The last runs for regular PennBus and Penn Shuttle services have been moved back from 3 a.m. to 1 a.m. A new dispatch service, available by calling 215-898-RIDE, now serves areas west of the Schuylkill River during this time.

All shuttle and weekend bus service to Center City has been suspended, and only PennBuses will serve a dedicated Center City weekday route.

In the next few weeks, new, large, clearly marked signs will also go up at transit stops.

Specific requests from the Undergraduate Assembly prompted some of the changes, said Ron Ward, manager of transportation services.

Last year, PennBuses carried about 168,000 riders, while the shuttle picked up just over 170,000.