The bus system is an absolute joke! I am originally from Tucson and I thought Sun Tran was bad. Boy how wrong I was. I have always been an advocate for public transit and strongly support its use. However after using Valley Metro, I can see why everyone drives everywhere; its not a feasible means of transport.
First of all the scheduling is terrible. Outside of peak hours it can be as regular as 30 to 40 minute intervals. Of course that is assuming the bus even comes! Especially on route 44, there might be several scheduled busses that simply do not show. I have regularly waited up to 50 minutes for the bus to show only to give up and call a cab or walk. In more than one instance walking proved the faster choice.
During peak hours the buses are often crowed. Usually its not to bad as long as the ac is working. Pray that the AC doesn't go out; the smell in the busses becomes unbearable.
The drivers are rude and not very helpful. First time users beware, the drivers expect you to be expert travlers of the bus system, asking questions about payment, routes, times, transfers, or other bus transport related issues is frowned upon by drivers.
In summation: don't depend on the bus, it will probably be late if it even shows up. Valley Metro is really a slap in the face to public transportation everywhere.