We at Pace Suburban Bus, Arlington Heights, IL, have worked hard to size our fleet to the levels of demand and the operating environment of the areas we serve. Our success is due to diligence at identifying rider needs and allocating the proper resources to fulfill those needs. Pace was extremely pleased for the Mid-Size Bus Manufacturers Association (MSBMA) to have recognized our transit agency during BusCon 2012 for operating the nation’s largest fleet of small buses under 40 feet. Pace began operations in 1984 after the Illinois State Legislature called for the conglomeration of several independent, disparate bus agencies operating throughout the Chicago suburbs. The prevailing logic at that time was to apply urban transit methodology, which meant the exclusive use of 40-foot buses. These served us very well for many years. However in a service area comprising urban, suburban, exurban and even rural environments, we needed to develop innovative solutions that involved smaller vehicles. We began Pace dial-a-ride operations before they were required by the Americans with Disabilities Act
Peter Carmine Picknelly founded a small transit operation in East Orange, NJ in 1920. His successive ventures led to the creation of Peter Pan Bus Lines in 1933, launched with four 1933 Buick jitney vehicles. No guessing about the name, Peter Pan by J.M. Barrie was the favorite bedtime story of the Picknelly children, who grew — and are growing — to keep the dream and the family business growing successfully through four generations for 80 years. The founder passed away in 1964 leaving the company’s helm to his 33-year old son, Peter L. Picknelly, who opened
BUSRide
the Springfield Bus Terminal, current headquarters of Peter Pan Bus Lines. Today, his son, Peter A. Picknelly serves as Chairman and CEO. President and CFO Brian Stefano began his career with Peter Pan Bus Lines as a controller 23 years ago and served as chief financial officer. Last year the company promoted him to president and CEO, the first time in the 80-year history that someone from outside the Picknelly family has served as president. BUSRide spoke with the principals, who also include Joe Picknally, director, inventory control and fleet main-
April 2013
35