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In celebration of MCI’s five-year anniversary as the distributor of the Daimler-built Setra brand in North America, you’re invited to offer your charter service, college contracts and tour groups the superior style and comfort of the worldwide luxury leader.
BRAND
NEW
2017
Setra ComfortClass S 407 Our lowest-priced With no payments until product offering January 2018, and a
$2,500 parts credit.* Exclusive upscale seating with leather trim; woodgrain flooring; high-capacity AC; five-year extended powertrain warranty; full coach outlets with USB. See us At APTA Booth #7819
Contact your MCI sales representative
Wheelchair lift equipped coaches also available at competitive prices.
*Offer is on approved credit. Must take delivery by Sept. 30, 2017. Price does not include tax, title and license fees.
9:46 AM
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WHO’S DRIVING THE BUS? YOU ARE.
When you choose Freightliner Custom Chassis, you get the power to customize your transportation to meet your needs. And with its reputation for durability, reliability, automotive styling and maneuverability, the S2C chassis is the premier choice for public transportation, resort and hotel shuttles, day-tour operations, armored and utility applications, and any business with special transport needs. Built in Gaffney, South Carolina by American workers, FCCC chassis are backed by the engineering and manufacturing excellence of the Daimler Group. This gives you access to the industry’s largest factory-certified service network, ensuring maximum uptime and hassle-free maintenance.
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Learn how our customizable chassis can meet your needs at fcccbus.com. UPTIME
Specifications are subject to change without notice. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is registered to ISO 9001:2008 and ISO 14001:2004. Copyright ©2016 Daimler Trucks North America LLC. All rights reserved. Freightliner Custom Chassis Corporation is a subsidiary of Daimler Trucks North America LLC, a Daimler company.
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CONTENTS
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IN THIS ISSUE APTA EXPO Heads To Atlanta ....................8 APTA EXPO Hours ...................................10 APTA Annual Meeting/EXPO 2017...........12
Chapel Hill, NC
Point To Point Transportation Celebrates 25th Anniversary....22
Serving Houston And Beyond With Over 300 Vehicles
AFC Transportation ................................................................40 Busline Buyers Guide To
Busline Buyers Guide To
Bus Shelters 62
Fare Collection 70
APTA EXPO Booth Numbers Current As Of 09/01/17, courtesy of www.aptaexpo.com.
RAPID RESPONSE.......................Page 54 INDUSTRY NEWS .......................Page 82
ON THE COVER: Point to Point (P2P) Transportation Manager Lee McRae stands in front of two P2P vehicles — an RX2 Series, on the left, and a D-Series. Both models are produced by Blue Bird Commercial Group. P2P is located in Chapel Hill, NC. See page 22.
CALENDAR OF EVENTS OCTOBER 2017 October 8-11 APTA Expo & Annual Meeting Atlanta, GA Info: 202-496-4800 JANUARY 2018 January 6-10 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo San Antonio, TX Info: 800-424-8262 January 27-30 American Bus Association (ABA) Annual Meeting & Marketplace Charlotte, NC Info: 800-283-2877
MARCH 2018 March 18-20 APTA Legislative Conference Washington, D.C. Info: 202-496-4800 MAY 2018 May 6-9 APTA Bus & Paratransit Conference Tampa, FL Info: 202-496-4800 JUNE 2018 June 10-14 Community Transportation Association of America (CTAA) Expo Pittsburgh, PA Info: 800-891-0590
SEPTEMBER 2018 September 23-26 APTA Annual Meeting Nashville, TN Info: 202-496-4800 OCTOBER 2018 October 1-3 BusCon 2018 Indianapolis, IN Info: 800-576-8788 JANUARY 2019 January 6-10 United Motorcoach Association (UMA) Motorcoach Expo Fort Lauderdale, FL Info: 800-424-8262
Busline Magazine is published 6 times a year by Rankin Publishing, Inc., 204 E. Main, P.O. Box 130, Arcola, IL 61910-0130. Publisher assumes no liability whatsoever for content of any advertisement or editorial material contained herein. Copyright 2017 Rankin Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without written consent of Rankin Publishing, Inc. Subscription Rates in United States: 6 issues $25. Single Copy rate: $10 including postage/handling; Buyer’s Guide $15 including postage/handling. International rates: 6 issue annual Air Mail Subscription $60 U.S. dollars net
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September/October 2017
EDITORIAL & CORPORATE OFFICES
Rankin Publishing Co., Inc. Don Rankin and Linda Rankin, Publishers 204 E. Main Street • P.O. Box 130 Arcola, IL 61910-0130, USA Email: drankin@consolidated.net Website: www.rankinpublishing.com (800) 598-8083 (U.S.) • (217) 268-4959 Fax: (217) 268-4815 Editorial: Harrell Kerkhoff, Editor Rick Mullen, Associate Editor Design: David Opdyke, Kris Bott Reception: Mary Jo Dunn Advertising Contact Kevin Kennedy @ 813-502-6672 Email: kevloraz@gmail.com Or Don Rankin @ 800-598-8083 Fax: 217-268-4815 Email: drankin@consolidated.net
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200,000+ PART NUMBERS IIN N STOCK STOCK STOC
FLEXIBLE CORP PARTS GILLIG PARTS MCI PARTS NABI PARTS NEOPLAN BUS PARTS NEW FLYER PARTS
12,000 1 2,0 2, 000 + 14,000 + 22,000 + 4,000 + 8,000 + 16,000+
NOVABUS PARTS OPTIMA BUS PARTS ORION PARTS PREVOST PARTS VAN HOOL PARTS OTHER PARTS
29,000 2 9,000 9,00 0+ 1,000 + 16,000 + 6,000 + 31,000 + 41,000 +
With over 200,000 OE and aftermarket part numbers in stock for all make and model motorcoaches and transit buses, we are sure to have the part that you need.
Transit: US: 800.428.8610 Canada: 800.265.0520 www.abc-companies.com Coach: 877.427.7278 option 4 *Subject to applicable terms and conditions. Some exclusions may apply.
See us At APTA Booth #6657, 7359
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Motor Coach Industries .......66 Nova Bus............................67 Alexander Dennis Inc ..........67 Prevost ..............................68
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September/October 2017
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See us At APTA Booth #6616
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Dear Public Transportation Colleagues: On October 9-11, 2017, more than 12,000 public transportation professionals, from more than 75 countries around the world, will gather in Atlanta, GA, for the American Public Transportation Association’s (APTA) EXPO, the world’s largest public transit-related conference, held in conjunction with the APTA Annual Meeting.
Doran J. Barnes APTA Chair (2016-2017)
Held every three years, APTA EXPO showcases the latest innovations, products and services in the public transportation industry. EXPO is the must-attend event for the entire public transit industry, and offers unique opportunities for all participants to enhance their organizations, their careers and their professional networks. This year, we are delighted that MARTA, the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority, will serve as our host, with the theme of “Where Innovation and Technology Converge.” More than 800 exhibitors will display the latest advancements and state-of-the-art technology in the public transit industry, filling the show floor with rail cars (full size and mock ups), buses and even autonomous vehicles. With hands-on demonstrations, and a tremendous amount of exhibitor information available, you can walk the 300,000 square feet of exhibit space and explore the technologies that will move your public transit system or business forward. EXPO is held in conjunction with APTA’s Annual Meeting, which means you can expect a wide-ranging lineup of educational sessions, general forums, technical tours and extensive networking opportunities. And with seven Learning Zones conveniently located around the show floor, you can explore exhibits, while also easily attending free educational sessions to learn more about the latest innovations shaping the industry. We look forward to meeting you in Atlanta!
Nathaniel P. Ford Sr. APTA Chair (2017-2018)
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Sincerely, Doran J. Barnes & Nathaniel P. Ford Sr.
September/October 2017
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DIWA.6 The Smarter, More Reliable Bus Transmission Keep your fleet running efficiently, reliably and cost effectively with Voith’s DIWA.6— the automatic transmission that is revolutionizing transportation by lowering fuel consumption and emissions, while ensuring optimum performance.
DIWA.6 at a Glance: • • • • • •
The DIWA.6 even has a unique Stop-Start technology that combines the Automatic Neutral Shift (ANS) with intelligent start-up management to prevent the engine from working against the still-active brake during start-up. This delivers a smoother, more efficient ride with reduced CO2, NOX, particulate and noise emissions.
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Get the technology you need for better fleet performance with the DIWA.6. voith.com/DIWA6
Visit us at Booth #7619 VT-1041
See us At APTA Booth #7619
9:01:19 AM
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Atlanta, GA
2017 APTA Expo Oct. 9 - Oct. 11
At this year’s event, attendees can visit exhibits featuring different types of technology, products and services, while talking with representatives from public transportation-related companies. Company booths will be located throughout the EXPO showfloor, which encompasses two halls in the Georgia World Congress Center. EXPO hours are as follows: n 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, October 9; n 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 10; and, n 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11.
RETHINK YOUR TIRE PROGRAM. Get great tires without great expense by paying only for the tires you use. Bridgestone Mileage Sales can offer a price per mile for your charter, intercity or city-suburban operations. You’ll get top-quality Bridgestone radial tires, backed by an extensive support network. Let us handle your tire program, so you can focus on the rest of your business.
Mileage Sales Division • 1-800-342-MILE (6453)
PRECISELY THE RIGHT TIRE. Bridgestone Corporation For more information visit our website
www.mileagesales.com ©2014 Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
See us At APTA Booth #6825 Page 10
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September/October 2017
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Atlanta, GA
M
ore than 12,000 transit professionals and 800-plus exhibiting companies, from around the world, will gather in October at the Georgia World Congress Center, in Atlanta, GA, for the American Public Transportation Association’s 2017 Annual Meeting & EXPO. The event officially runs from Sunday, October 8 through Wednesday, October 11. The EXPO takes place every three years. At this year’s event, attendees can visit exhibits featuring different types of technology, products and services, while talking with representatives from public transportation-related companies. Company booths will be located throughout the EXPO showfloor, which encompasses two halls in the Georgia World Congress Center. EXPO hours are as follows: n 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mon., Oct. 9; n 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tues., Oct. 10; and, n 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wed., Oct. 11. The EXPO offers a marketplace for the public transportation industry. Products on display will include alternative-fueled buses and trolleys featuring the latest in technology. Meanwhile, the APTA Annual Meeting, held concurrently with the EXPO, features a series of educational sessions, forums and other learning and networking opportunities.
APTA Registration Hours Admission to all scheduled APTA Annual Meeting & EXPO activities requires a name badge. Attendees must register and pick up their individual badges upon arrival. The registration desk, located in the Georgia World Congress Page 12
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Center, will be open during the following days/times: Saturday, Oct. 7 — 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 8 — 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday, Oct. 9 — 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10 — 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 11 — 7:30 a.m. to Noon APTF Fundraiser & Scholarship Reception All Annual Meeting/EXPO registrants are invited to join APTA’s Incoming Chair Nathaniel P. Ford Sr., for a hosted APTF reception and fundraiser. The 2017 APTF scholarship recipients, sponsors and friends will enjoy an inspired evening, celebrating the future of transit. The event is scheduled from 8 to 11 p.m. on Sunday, October 8, at Ventanas, located at 275 Baker St., in Atlanta. All donations will directly support the APTF’s mission to provide scholarships and engagement opportunities to the future leaders of the transit industry. An RSVP is required. Visit www.aptfd.org for more information. Opening General Session The Opening General Session is scheduled from 8:30 to 10:15 a.m. on Monday, October 9, at the Georgia World Congress Center. Attendees will hear an update on the state of public transportation, and witness the “exchanging of the gavel” ceremony between outgoing APTA Chair Doran J. Barnes, executive director of Foothill Transit, West Covina, CA, and incoming APTA Chair Nathaniel P. Ford Sr., chief executive officer of the Jacksonville (FL) Transportation Authority. Both men will also speak at the Opening
September/October 2017
General Session, along with APTA Acting President & CEO Richard White. The keynote address at this year’s Opening General Session will be presented by Dr. Joseph F. Coughlin, founder and director of AgeLab, at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, in Cambridge, MA. The public transit landscape is rapidly changing, as shifting demographics and evolving technology are converging to drive innovation and shape the future of the industry. Dr. Coughlin calls this trend “disruptive demographics,” and it will be the focus of his remarks. The Opening General Session concludes with the Grand Opening of EXPO 2017. AdWheel Awards Ceremony Attendees of the APTA Annual Meeting & EXPO are invited to help salute the Grand Award winners of the 38th Annual AdWheel Awards competition, which honors the best in public transportation marketing and communications. The event takes place from 3:30 to 5 p.m. on Monday, October 9, at the Georgia World Congress Center. Grand Awards will be presented in three categories: Best Effort to Increase Ridership or Sales; Best Effort to Highlight Transit Needs/ Funding; and Best Educational Effort. The ceremony will include a panel discussion. The AdWheel Awards Exhibit is located at Booth 8311 on the EXPO floor. APTA Awards Ceremony & Breakfast All Annual Meeting/EXPO registrants are invited to attend the APTA Awards Ceremony & Breakfast, scheduled for 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, October 10, at the Georgia World
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See us At APTA Booth #3661
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Congress Center. The event will honor this year’s 10 organizational and individual honorees. Tickets are required. APTA awards will be presented in the following categories: Outstanding Public Transportation System Achievement Award, Innovation Award, Outstanding Public Trans portation Manager Award, Outstanding Public Transportation Business Member Award, Outstanding Public Transportation Board Member Award, Local Distinguished Service Award, and Hall of Fame Award. Educational Opportunities Offered There are a variety of educational sessions scheduled for the 2017 APTA Annual Meeting & EXPO. This includes seven Learning Zones, located throughout the Georgia World Congress Center, where attendees will hear from both industry experts and EXPO exhibitors. Topics will range from the latest in procurement, safety and security, fare collection and autonomous vehicles, to mobility management and livable and sustainable communities. A full Learning Zone schedule to listed at the end of this article. APTA Technical Tours APTA Annual Meeting & EXPO registrants are also invited to participate in several technical tours, arranged by the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA). The tours
will take place on Sunday, October 8, and/or Wednesday, October 11. Attendees can sign up for specific tours at the host information desk, located in the APTA registration area of the Georgia World Congress Center. Tours being offered will focus on: the Atlanta Streetcar/BeltLine System; Atlanta Streetcar Economic Development; the MARTA Brady Mobility (Paratransit) Facility; Relay Bikes; the MARTA Integrated Operations Center & Emergency Operations Center; Transit Oriented Development Projects; the State Road and Tollway Authority Operations & Maintenance Facility; and TrackSafe and Autonomous Track Inspection.
2017 APTA Meeting/ EXPO Schedule (Courtesy of APTA: Current as of Aug. 24, 2017)
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 7 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. APTA Committee Meetings 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Registration Open SUNDAY, OCTOBER 8 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Registration Open 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. APTA Committee Meetings
9:30 a.m. - 4:40 p.m. MARTA Technical Tours 1 - 2:15 p.m. This is APTA 6 - 7:30 p.m. Welcome to Atlanta Reception 8 - 11 p.m. APTF Fundraiser and Scholarship Reception MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 7 - 8:15 a.m. Committee Meetings 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Registration Open 8:30 - 10:15 a.m. Opening General Session/Opening Ceremonies 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. EXPO 2017 OPEN 2 - 3 p.m. General Session: A Conversation With U.S. Department Of Transportation Leaders 3:30 - 5 p.m. AdWheel Awards Ceremony 3:30 - 5 p.m. Educational Sessions • Applying Lessons Learned from APTA’s 2017 International Study Mission to Asia; • Executive Roundtable: Creating World Class Organizations - Leadership, Culture, Trust, Empowerment;
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See us At APTA Booth #3651 Page 14
BUSLINE
September/October 2017
RoadRecorder® 8000 Network Video Recorder
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See us At APTA Booth #3107
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• Federal Legislative Overview with U.S. Congress Staff; • Host Forum: Georgia On My Mind; • Integrated and Innovative Mobility Management; and, • The Procurement Super Session. TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 7 - 8:15 a.m. Committee Meetings 7:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Registration Open 8:30 - 10:30 a.m. APTA Awards Ceremony & Breakfast 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. EXPO 2017 OPEN 1 - 3 p.m. Capital Programs - Major Projects 1:15 - 3 p.m. APTF Scholarship Awards – Generation Next: Building Leaders for the Future 1:30 - 3 p.m. Educational Sessions • Leading the Way: Small Operations Best Practices and Innovative Solutions; • Procurement Integrity; • Technological Innovation; • Transit Agency, Federal, and Research Perspectives on How to Reduce Fatalities &
Injuries: An SMS Outlook; and, • Your Chamber of Commerce Can Be Your Biggest Advocate. 3:30 - 5 p.m. Educational Sessions • High-Speed and Intercity Passenger Rail Corridor Update; • Innovations in Planning and Implementing TOD; • Innovative Funding, Finance, and P3s; • Leadership APTA: Celebrating its 20th Year; • Resilience in a Time of Uncertainty, Managing Emergencies; and, • Zero-Emission Buses: Lessons Learned and Where to Get the Funding Needed to Put Them in Service. 3:30 - 5:30 p.m. COMTO/APTA FORUM 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. Leadership APTA Reception WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 7:30 - 9:15 a.m. Wednesday Wake Up Breakfast: Climbing the Ladder, Building the Pipeline 7:30 a.m. - Noon Registration Open 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. EXPO 2017 OPEN 9:30 - 11 a.m.
See us At APTA Booth #7309 Page 16
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Educational Sessions • Advancing Performance Based Planning and Programming; • FTA State Safety Oversight Agency (SSOA) Certification and Best Practices; and, • Procurement – What Happened to the Good Old Ways? They Are No Longer Good! 9:30 - 11:15 a.m. Capital Programs - Managing Risks & Lessons Learned 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Closing General Session: Opportunity Is Knocking: Forward Looking Solutions for Challenging Times 1 - 4:40 p.m. MARTA Technical Tours ———————————————— LEARNING ZONE SCHEDULE n Innovations Learning Zone – Booth 4161 in Hall B MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 11:15 - 11:45 a.m. Mobility in the Future: Connected, Shared, Autonomous 1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Innovations for Connected Vehicles and Battery-Electric Fleets 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. Reliable Solar Power Solutions for Stops and Stations to Grow Ridership
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See us At APTA Booth #7005
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3:15 - 3:45 p.m. Innovations in Fare Collection: Procurement, Mobile Ticketing Approaches, System Renewal or Replacement 4:15 - 4:45 p.m. Advanced Phenolic Composite Heated and Fire Safety Compliant Flooring Systems TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 10:15 - 10:45 a.m. Electric Choices for Transit 11:15 - 11:45 a.m. Strategies for Successful Fare Collection 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. Innovations Intelligent Lighting 1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Rugged, Compact Evolution-Friendly Lithium-Ion Batteries 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. Is Ridesharing a Threat to Public Transit? 3:15 - 3:45 p.m. Harnessing the Tech Behind Driverless Cars WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10:15 - 10:45 a.m. Reimagining Transit-Oriented PTC 11:15 - 11:45 a.m. DEPARTURES Live App Taking Real-time Departure Information to the Next Level 1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Maximizing Demand Response Productivity
by Leveraging Modern IT & Software 2:15 - 2:45 p.m. Autonomous Driving for Flexible Pub. Trans. n Solutions Learning Zone – Booth 1702 in Hall B MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 11 - 11:30 a.m. Thermoforming for the Rail Industry 1 - 1:30 p.m. How Mobile Bus and Train Washing Machines Can Solve Bottlenecks 2 - 2:30 p.m. Walk In, Walk Out Solutions for Fast Fare Collection, Platform Access 3 - 3:30 p.m. Interactive Technology for Transit Settings 4 - 4:30 p.m. Bluetooth Validation: A Mobile Ticketing, Hands-Free Solution TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 10 - 10:30 a.m. Rail Transit HVAC Energy Optimization 11 - 11:30 a.m. Integrating Simulator Training in Existing Bus Programs 1 - 1:30 p.m. Fuel Cell Electric Buses: A Solution to Meet Zero Emission Regulations for Transit Agencies
2 - 2:30 p.m. Changing Driver Behaviors to Avoid Unsafe Actions 3 - 3:30 p.m. DPF Maintenance: Avoid the Five Most Common Mistakes 4 - 4:30 p.m. The Most Effective Ways to Disinfect Fleets WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10 - 10:30 a.m. Solutions for Improving Bicycle Transit 11 - 11:30 a.m. Eliminating the Effects of Vibration on Fasteners 1 - 1:30 p.m. The Deadly Blind Spot: Enhancing Driver Visibility 2 - 2:30 p.m. Managing Service Changes on the Fly n International Learning Zone – Booth 9005 in Hall C MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 11 - 11:45 a.m. An Overview of International Transit Market Trends 1 - 1:45 p.m. Public Transportation Projects in Canada 2:15 - 3 p.m. Why a Staged Approach to Mobile Ticketing
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See us At APTA Booth #3451 Page 18
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See us At APTA Booth #3701
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Reduces Risk, Speeds Up Deployment and Increases Adoption TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 11 - 11:45 a.m. The Bus Transportation Market in Australia 1:15 - 2 p.m. Public Transportation Projects in Turkey 2:30 - 3:15 p.m. Public Transportation Projects in Brazil 3:45 - 4:15 p.m. Fuel Cell Electric Buses: A Solution to Meet Zero Emission Regulations for Transit Agen. WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10 - 10:45 a.m. How the U.S. Department of Commerce Can Facilitate Access to Overseas Markets n Workforce Development Learning Zone – C112 Meeting Room in Hall C MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. Training Consortia and Partnerships 1:15 - 1:45 p.m. Entrepreneurship and the Pub. Trans. Ind. n Livable and Sustainable Communities Learning Zone – C112 Meeting Room in Hall C MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 2:45 - 3:15 p.m.
Electric Buses 11:15 - 11:45 a.m. Procurement Innovation WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. Procurement Piggybacking 1 - 1:30 p.m. Is the Cloud Really Back Office Ready?
First Mile, Last Mile Solutions 3:30 - 4 p.m. The Mode Choice on Car Free Earth Day TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 10 - 10:30 a.m. Civic Transit Corridors: Transit/City Partnerships 12:15 - 12:45 p.m. Cities Help Set the Table for Transit 1 - 1:30 p.m. Design to Thrive: Why Design Matters WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 11 - 11:30 a.m. Mobility Ecosystems, Transit Shared Mobility Partnerships n Procurement Learning Zone – C111 Meeting Room in Hall C MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 11 - 11:30 a.m. How to Overcome Common Procurement Oversight Deficiencies 1 - 1:30 p.m. Preparing to Produce a New Fare System 2 - 2:30 p.m. Procuring and Negotiating for Non-Traditional Transportation Service Options TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 10:15 - 10:45 a.m. Standard Bus Procurement Guideline for
n Operations Learning Zone – C112 Meeting Room in Hall C MONDAY, OCTOBER 9 11:30 a.m. - 12:15 p.m. Vehicle Technology: The Impact of Autonomous Vehicles on Public Transportation (Part 1) 2 - 2:30 p.m. Vehicle Tech: The Impact of Autonomous Vehicles on Public Transportation (Part 2) TUESDAY, OCTOBER 10 10:45 - 11:15 a.m. Safety and Security: Bus and Rail Gold Award Winners, How to Achieve the Gold Standard 11:30 a.m. - Noon Safety and Security: Fare Evasion Solutions WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 11 10:15 - 10:45 a.m. Safety and Security: More than Just Security — Considerations and Uses for Video Surveillance Technology
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THE FUTURE
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2016 TURTLE TOP VT3 The Turtle Top VT3 is constructed on Ford’s new Transit cutaway with gas or diesel options for its power train. Lightweight materials such as 6360 aluminum (aircraft grade)
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By Rick Mullen, Busline Magazine Associate Editor
Chapel Hill, NC
Point To Point Transportation Celebrates 25th Anniversary “An overall
goal of P2P
is that we are trying to make
more comfortable not bringing a single occupancy vehicle on campus.”
people feel
– Randy Young, UNC media relations
C
elebrating its 25th birthday in August, Point to Point Tran sportation (P2P) services the transportation needs of students and employees of the University of North Carolina (UNC) on the school’s sprawling main campus, located in Chapel Hill, NC. The Chapel Hill campus is one of 17 in the University of North Carolina system. P2P is part of the UNC Department of Transportation & Parking, which is tasked with coordinating all traffic, parking and transportation around the campus.
P2P provides after-dark rides for students and employees.
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“P2P was launched in 1992. At that time, we were seeing declin- Gregory Poole Equipment Company contacted McRae, telling ing parking options on campus, as there were fewer and fewer him about Blue Bird buses. spaces available for people to use,” said Randy Young, UNC In 2011, Gregory Poole Equipment Company entered into a media relations, during a recent interview with Busline partnership with Blue Bird in the state of North Carolina for sales, Magazine. People were having to ‘hunt and peck’ around campus parts and service of school buses, activity buses, etc., according to to find a place to park. One of the first functions of P2P was to www.gregorypoole.com. provide an on-demand style service for employees and students Gregory Poole operates facilities in Raleigh, Beaufort, needing rides to and from student health services.” Elizabethtown, Fayetteville, Garner, Greenville, Mebane, A year later, the UNC student government got involved and, by Pittsboro, Rocky Mount, Washington, Wilmington and Wanchese contributing ideas and encouragement, helped to solve another in North Carolina, as well as in Richmond, Roanoke, Winchester, transportation issue on campus. At that time, the local public Harrisonburg and Chesapeake in Virginia and Florence and transportation agency, Chapel Hill Transit (CHT), which also Charleston in South Carolina. serviced the UNC campus, ran until 11:30 p.m. on weekdays. “We had been dealing with Gregory Poole for years for repair (Today, CHT operates until midnight during the workweek.) The work on our vehicles,” McRae said. “Their rep gave me information problem was, some of the UNC on-campus locations remained open after 11:30 p.m. Indeed, campus libraries remained open until 2 a.m. “There was a need to transport students back to resident halls, sororities, fraternities, etc., after the local service ended at 11:30 p.m.,” Young said. “Therefore, we began running a fixed-route to augment the local service. The new route served the business area of Chapel Hill with a bus to campus, and also a number of fraternities and sororities affiliated with campus housing along the route. In addition, the fixedroute bus picked up passengers at resident halls that were more remotely located on the southern side of campus.” Currently, P2P operates five Blue Bird Commercial Group buses, two of which are the Micro Bird D-series for P2P shuttle services and fixed-routes serving a large married Your one stop shop for coach, rail, and ship interiors. housing community and the RR parking lot. In addition, three of the larger Blue Upholstery, New & Used passenger & Drivers Bird RX2, 48-passenger, buses are used seats, flooring, floor structural, foam, gas on the fixed-route P2P Express service, struts and upholstery cleaning machines. according to P2P Manager Lee McRae. Blue Bird Commercial Group in a newlyformed partnership between Micro Bird and Dealers for Isringhausin and National Seats, Blue Bird. The company has an extensive we have a full stock of seats and parts for network of dealers and parts and service both brands. We also have parts for Amerifacilities throughout North America. can, Amaya, Vanhool and Wakefield seats. P2P Express is a fare-free bus service for UNC students and employees. P2P Express serves designated bus stops on campus If we don't have it, we can get it. every 15 minutes. Buses do not run during breaks and university-recognized holidays, Over 40 years of service to the or when residence halls are closed. P2P motorcoach industry, all seat covers Express operates daily from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. guaranteed for 4 years or 400,000 miles. “The Express route has grown over the years,” McRae said. “We started with small buses, but as ridership increased and the Any questions about your seats or other needs, please route grew, we went to the RX2 buses. Our call 425-432-9867 or visit us at www.willinghaminc.com. students and faculty really enjoy riding on the larger buses.” When P2P was looking at phasing out some older buses, a representative of the September/October 2017
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“The Express route has grown over the years. We started with small buses, but as ridership increased and the route grew, we went to the RX2 buses. Our students and faculty really enjoy riding on the larger buses.” – P2P manager Lee McRae
and the specs of different Blue Bird models. I felt like the Blue Bird buses would be a good fit for us, so, we ordered the vehicles after a competitive bid process. “Because of the way the buses look and feel, I think we made the right decision. Students love these buses. The Blue Birds are getting the job done. “We have two Micro Bird 25-seat buses. We use one of them to service the Baity Hill married student housing community. We call it the Baity Hill shuttle. This particular community is in an area of campus that previously had no service at all. With the Micro Birds, this is first time Baity Hill has had shuttle service.” Before P2P purchased the Micro Bird buses, vans were used to service the Baity Hill community. “Servicing Baity Hill was wearing out the vans, because it is a very large community,” McRae said. “As soon as we would pick up a few people, other people in the community would call requesting rides. We were running three or four vans over there all of the time. “Now, with the Micro Birds, we are able to run a fixed-route
P2P Manager Lee McRae
through the Baity Hill community, as well as the main part of downtown Chapel Hill. That is working out well. The community within married student housing is pleased with the service. “We use the second shuttle for one of the remote parking lots, where undergraduate students park, and that is working real well, also.” McRae said he was at P2P’s facility on a recent Saturday night and observed the Micro Bird buses were filled to capacity. “The students and the community have embraced them,” McRae said. “We have drivers who have worked for different transit agencies, and they love how these buses feel and handle.”
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P2P also operates a dispatch center that sends out and keeps track of vehicles throughout the system. Pictured is Kathy Gibson.
P2P after-dark ride pick-up/drop-off points are at on-campus or specific off-campus locations. The driver is Grandison Wells.
PART OF THE FABRIC OF THE UNIVERSITY
“Today’s students are pretty well-mannered,” McRae said. “For the most part, our students are well behaved.” There were some problems with riders in the 1990s. The UNC student government got involved to help resolve some issues. “We did have a bit of a challenge back in the late 1990s,” Young said. “There were some incidents where students would get on board, and they thought it was fun to “rock the boat,” so to speak. We spoke with student government representatives, because student government was very involved in the service at the time.
D
uring the academic year, a little more than 29,000 students call UNC at Chapel Hill home. The campus is spread over 729 acres in the city’s downtown area. Unlike other public transit agencies, P2P’s ridership consists primarily of students. P2P has had a minimum of student behavior issues on the bus.
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They put out warnings saying, ‘This service can be taken away. There was a time when this service did not exist and it can disappear again. It is primarily for students and we need to self-police.’ The problems abated very quickly. “Lee (McRae) has been with this program since its inception. I was here a few years prior to the advent of the service, so we have both seen it develop over time. I think the main thing is people view P2P as part of the fabric of the university. At this point, I don’t think there are a lot of people at the university who remember UNC without this service available. It is revered. “We offer close to 180,000 rides a year, through the various services. We may offer anywhere from 1,200 to 1,500 rides on a busy night. That is servicing a good chunk of the transportation needs of the university community.” P2P also uses paratransit vans to transport people with wheelchairs. “In addition to the fixed-route and the normal on-demand services, P2P also offers an emergency ‘ride-back’ service for people who are members of our Commuter Alternative Program (CAP),” Young said. “The ride-back service guarantees that people who have an emergency will be transported back to their cars at the park and ride lots. That is one of things that we feature.” According to P2P’s website, ride-back service is provided Monday through Friday in the following instances: n The CAP member’s carpool driver has to unexpectedly leave early or stay late; n The CAP member or an immediate family member gets sick or has a severe crisis; and,
n The CAP member must work unscheduled overtime and Chapel Hill Transit is not running. UNC offers many benefits to employees and students who join the Commuter Alternative Program. CAP rewards faculty, staff and students who choose to take the bus, rideshare, bike or walk to campus. Employees may also join GoTriangle’s free Emergency Ride Home program to get to other locations. This program is separate from CAP. GoTriangle provides regional bus service to the Research Triangle region of North Carolina in Wake, Durham, and Orange counties. Other P2P on-demand services include: n Point-to-Point (P2P) Accessibility Shuttle — P2P provides van service to all qualified university and UNC healthcare students and employees with special accessibility needs, between campus buildings and parking lots. This service is available 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, the disability shuttle runs from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. P2P vans are equipped with wheelchair lifts. Chapel Hill Transit and GoTriangle buses are also ADA accessible with stops located throughout the community and region. n Pedestrian Accessibility Shuttle Service (PASS) — PASS uses golf carts to provide service between buildings for UNC employees and students with disabilities. This service is available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., during the regular academic year (excluding holidays and academic breaks). n After-Dark Service — P2P provides after-dark rides for stu-
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dents and employees. Pick-up and drop-off points are limited to “A lot of parents will come up to the tables at student orientaon-campus locations or specific off-campus locations owned or tion and ask, ‘How is my child going to get around?’” Young said. operated by the University. P2P does not offer service to buildings “We talk about the fact that the town transit system is fare free and that are normally closed during the evening or weekend hours or that P2P augments CHT. Students are probably going to be riding to park and ride lots unless it P2P more often than they is for an emergency ride “If we are not availing ourselves of something that is new, ride transit off campus. It back. After-dark service proenables us to say, ‘You can the student body will certainly let us know about it.” vides rides to students who really get from point A to B – Randy Young, UNC media relations are not served by the P2P in a myriad of ways.’ That Express route and to employgives people a sense of ees. Students who are serviced at pick-up and drop-off points on security that whatever hour of the day, there is some service that the P2P Express route are eligible for the on-demand van service is going to work for them. from 4 to 6 a.m. “One of the things that has changed over the years is UNC has n Campus Health Shuttle — P2P provides transportation to become more and more a year-round university. Initially, we ran and from campus locations and Campus Health Services (during on non-holidays during the fall and spring academic semesters. hours of operation) or UNC Hospitals’ emergency room, which is Now, there are two mini-semesters during the summer. We are available to students during all hours of operation. going to be in service at some level if there are students occupyP2P also offers what it calls a “break shuttle” that transports stu- ing residence halls. The reality is, on some levels, P2P is now a dents to and from the nearby Raleigh-Durham International year-round service. Airport during spring break and some holidays. “An overall goal of P2P is that we are trying to make people feel “All students have to do is go online and sign up for the time more comfortable not bringing a single occupancy vehicle on slot they need,” McRae said. “We will transport them to the air- campus.” port and we will also pick them up. We were using the big buses While the proliferation of such modern technologies such as for this service, and now we are excited about using the Micro smart phones, tablets, laptop computers, etc., many public transit Birds for the airport shuttle.” agencies and motorcoach companies equip their vehicles with WiThe many services P2P offers are especially useful for incom- Fi service, USB ports and 110-volt outlets. Such amenities on ing students, as there is no available parking for freshmen, P2P’s vehicles are not practical as students typically are not on the bus for more than 10 or 15 minutes at the most, Young said. Young said.
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P2P also has public transit vehicle tracking software that uses GPS to predict when the next bus or shuttle will arrive at any given transit stop. This reduces wait times and the reliance on schedules. Young said P2P is looking at a software system that will allow riders to download an app on smart devices that offers accurate arrival predictions, route alerts and up-to-the-second updates. “If we are not availing ourselves of something that is new, the student body will certainly let us know about it,” Young said. P2P also operates a dispatch center that sends out and keeps track of vehicles throughout the system. “Even at night when we are operating our buses, if a student calls who is not on one of our bus routes, we will dispatch a van to provide transportation for him/her,” McRae said. Young reiterated: “The after-dark service requires P2P is part of the UNC Department of Transportation & Parking, which is tasked the trip requested to be between open locations on with coordinating all traffic, parking and transportation around the campus. campus or specific off-campus locations owned or operated by UNC. We are not going to transport a One amenity that has been installed in the buses to aid both stustudent to a friend’s apartment.” dents and drivers is what McRae called “chimes.” As P2P buses, shuttles and vans are constantly full of students, “Students can hit the ‘chimer’ and let the driver know when they get near their stop,” McRae said. “We also have GPS and automat- and because the system operates around the clock, it can be a chalic counters on the buses. For the most part, the students really lenge to keep vehicles clean. To accomplish that task, P2P conenjoy the service. It is a good way for them to mingle and to make tracts with a cleaning specialist. “We have a mobile detailing guy with whom we have worked new friends. Once they get on a P2P bus, they enjoy themselves with for several years,” McRae said. “He has his own trailer, and have a good time.”
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tanks, etc., and provides the washing and cleaning “The fact that we pay attention to cleanliness and appearances of all of our vehicles. We usually get the vehicles communicates to people that we take care of our vehicles. cleaned every two weeks. He does a good job. The This gives riders the sense that they are being well cared for, as vehicles look nice.” Sometimes situations occur, such as when a stuwell. It gives the impression that P2P is not only taking riders’ dent gets sick on a bus. transportation needs seriously, but also their safety and security.” “Our detailing guy is on-call, and he will come – Randy Young, UNC media relations and clean and sanitize the bus, so we can keep it moving,” McRae said. Young added: “The fact that we pay attention to UNC advances the triple bottom line of environmental quality, cleanliness and appearances communicates to people that we take economic vitality and societal well-being. The goal is to catalyze care of our vehicles. This gives riders the sense that they are the development and implementation of sustainable policies, pracbeing well cared for, as well. It gives the impression that P2P tices, curricula and behaviors for all members of the university is not only taking riders’ transportation needs seriously, but community.” also their safety and security.” In addition, the Three Zeros Environmental Initiative, launched To keep its buses up and running efficiently, P2P looks to in the fall of 2016 by Chancellor Carol Folt, moves the campus Gregory Poole for maintenance and repair work. toward water neutrality, zero waste and greenhouse gas neutrality. “We have a service station on campus, but our guys are not cer“We hold sustainability in high regard here,” Young said. “As tified to work on larger equipment like our buses,” McRae said. with any public transit organization, one of the missions of P2P is “We work with the Gregory Poole facility in Mebane, NC, which to diminish dependancy on single occupancy vehicles, which is is the closest one to Chapel Hill.” very important to the ecology here.” P2P also does its part in reducing harmful emissions from its UNC/P2P SUSTAINABILITY PROGRAMS buses and shuttles by using biodiesel fuel. “We have run on biodiesel for years, which has been good for NC takes environmental initiatives and programs serious- us, as well as the community,” McRae said. “The technology on ly, as testified by its Sustainability @ UNC and Three our buses is so advanced, we could run regular diesel and people Zeros Environmental Initiative programs. would never smell anything because of the advancements in filAccording to www.sustainability.unc.edu, “Sustainability @ ters, etc. Nonetheless, we still opt to run with biodiesel.”
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P2P Express serves designated bus stops on campus every 15 minutes.
Today’s college students are mostly of the millennial generation, as well as the first wave of Generation Z, born in the mid1990s to the early 2000s. It has been well-documented that the younger generations tend to be more aware of, and take more seriously, environmental issues than their older counterparts. Riding public transportation has some obvious environmental benefits, such as have been noted by Young and McRae, including keeping cars off the road, which reduces harmful emissions and reduces traffic congestion. These factors and the younger generation’s focus on environmental concerns, has led many experts to predict they will be more apt to embrace taking the bus once they leave school.
P2P operates Blue Bird Commercial Group buses. P2P buses, shutles and vans operate around the clock.
However, predicting whether or not UNC students’ experience in riding the P2P system will translate into riding the bus as they pursue career paths after college isn’t as cut and dried for Young and McRae. “It is hard to gauge; however, looking purely at ridership numbers, millennials seem to be more amendable to riding public transportation,” Young said. “However, there are other factors to consider. For example, students from larger cities are likely to have been exposed to public transit a lot more than a student from a small town in North Carolina. “We are also seeing the advent of Lyft and Uber. We don’t know what the impact these services will have on public transit ridership
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numbers. There are so many factors at play, it is tough to gauge by looking at pure numbers, whether or not riding the bus is more popular or less popular among the younger generation.” McRae added, “At night, we see a lot of students using Uber and Lyft.” As a side note, Young said with the many transportation options available today, taxi cabs are fast becoming obsolete. “One thing we have seen is the fall off of taxi cab use,” Young said. “People used to call cabs to get uptown or if they were planning to be out late. Cabs used to be ubiquitous, and now you just don’t see them. Between Chapel Hill Transit, P2P, Lyft and Uber, taxi cabs are being phased out.” So, why is using Lyft and Uber any different than calling a cab? “With a cab company, a person gets one choice,” Young said. “However, with Uber and Lyft, the rider can kind of gauge what kind of vehicle he/she wants. If a person doesn’t like the ‘looks’ of a driver online, these services give him/her much more of a choice of exactly how he/she will be transported.” WORD OF MOUTH
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rior to P2P going into service in 1992, it was marketed primarily by sending out flyers and by word of mouth. In the days before the transit system hit the road with 11 vans and one dispatcher, hundreds of calls were received asking for service, Young said. “Now, the Department of Transportation and Parking has a
robust Web presence. We utilize social media — both Facebook and Twitter — to make announcements or note changes in service,” Young said. “Because students, the university and the community depend on P2P, if there are any changes in service, we have to let people know right away. Given the nature of the scrutiny of services offered by universities these days, we can’t leave a solitary person at a bus stop for five minutes too long without being questioned. Therefore, we try to do our best to make sure the information is out there in some capacity.” Another way word of mouth has benefitted P2P is in hiring good employees, especially drivers. P2P’s drivers must have prior experience; therefore, they usually have worked at a public transportation entity before. As a result, when a driver position comes available, word of mouth from P2P drivers to their peers has been a good way to attract experienced drivers. “The way it usually works is we put out the word and then we get feedback from drivers from other agencies,” McRae said. “Sometimes we have a hard time finding experienced drivers, but, for the most part, word of mouth has worked pretty well. “We do not have a training program, which is why we hire drivers with prior experience. Over the years, that has been a big plus for us, because we haven’t had any accidents.” Not only driving experience is necessary to become a successful driver at P2P, but also a certain personality type is also crucial. “Drivers at P2P interact with young students, and we want somebody who is going to be able to get along with them, as well as our staff,” McRae said.
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Indeed, offering the best in customer service is “The first thing we have to keep up with is the paramount at P2P. moving of the population. A good example of that “We are a customer service organization. We is, our student family housing is in an area that want employees who are very positive, outgoing formerly was off campus,� Young said. “The and helpful,� McRae said. “If a situation comes up needs were great there, so it was important for us where an employee is not able to help a person, to meet those needs. As a result, we established a hopefully he/she will seek help from another staff secondary fixed-route this year in a section of member to get some clarity on how to assist that campus that wasn’t being served to the same individual.� extent as the central campus. At times, UNC students have sought positions at “We must be responsive to changing demands, P2P. and we have to be responsive to new technologies. “P2P has hired students over the years, and they Twenty years ago, the idea of being able to say the have worked out very well,� McRae said. “If a stubus is going to be here in exactly one minute and dent applies for a job and we determine he/she is 35 seconds was unheard of. So, we have to be able Randy Young, a good fit, there are opportunities to work in diskeep abreast of any new technologies.� UNC Media Relations patch or to drive one of our vans. We have also McRae added: “We have seen the service grow to had students who wanted to drive buses. We helped them acquire what it is today. With the way the university is growing, as long as their CDLs, and they did a good job.� P2P is around, it is going to be a part of the fabric of the university.� Today, P2P has 15 permanent and 15 temporary employees. McRae said a large part of P2P’s success is due to the support “We always want to hire good people to represent the depart- the system has received. ment, as well as the UNC community. As long as we have good “Being in the UNC Department of Transportation & Parking, people, students will be comfortable riding the service,� McRae we have had good support from our director, associate director and said. “We are satisfied with the people we have, and a lot of them other departments on campus,� McRae said. “We have all worked have been with us for a long time. For example, we have temps together collectively and for the greater good of the community, who have been here 10 years or longer. It has worked out that and it has worked out well for P2P.� some temps have been hired full time. Longevity has its place in our section.� Contact: Transportation & Parking Public Safety Building, Looking ahead, Young said one of the unique challenges that 285 Manning Drive, Campus Box No. 1610, P2P continually faces is the ever-changing geography of the UNC Chapel Hill, NC 27599-1610. campus. Phone: 919-962-3951. Website: www.move.unc.edu/p2p/.
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AFC Transportation President John Ferrari is shown next to one of his Irizar i6 motorcoaches.
AFC Transportation: Serving Houston And Beyond With Over 300 Vehicles
By Harrell Kerkhoff Busline Magazine Editor
Growth through product diversity and a merger with another leading transport service provider has propelled AFC Transportation, headquartered in Houston, TX, to major player status when it comes to transporting a wide variety of customers throughout Texas and beyond. In business since 1992, AFC Transportation and its organization have a fleet of slightly over 300 vehicles. It features sedans, SUVs, limousines, limo vans, passenger vans, limo buses, transit buses, minibuses, school buses, doubledecker buses, minicoaches and full-size motorcoaches, including four Irizar i6s. Continued On Page 44
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“We are set up to satisfy many areas of transportation. Our business model calls for service diversification,” AFC Transportation President John Ferrari said. This involves four main transportation sectors. They are: n Limousine sector, encompassing sedans, vans and limousines, primarily for corporate clients as well as weddings, parties and proms; n Charter/tour sector, which involves such vehicle types as minibuses, motorcoaches and double-deckers. This includes airport, airline and cruiseline shuttles; tours; over-the-road charters; military work; college/university transportation such as for sports teams; and destination, hospitality and event management transport; n Transit sector, providing fixed-route commuter and paratransit services in association with area municipalities and transit agencies; and, n School bus sector, including public and private schools. “The only type of transportation service we don’t operate right now is a line run,” Ferrari said. In August 2015, AFC Transportation merged with fellow Texas operator, Echo Transportation, to form a larger diversified company under the TBL Group, Inc., umbrella. The leadership team responsible for integration plans, operational oversight and future acquisition growth consists of the fol-
Editor’s Note: The accompanying feature article on AFC Transportation, of Houston, TX, was written prior to Hurricane Harvey striking a large area of the Texas’ coastal region in late August. AFC Transportation President John Ferrari reported, shortly after the storm passed the Houston area, that his company’s office facility was safe, with no major water damage. However, some employees of the company lost their homes, due to the flooding, and were temporarily living in shelters. Ferrari added that work continues during the aftermath of this devastating weather event to help affected people.
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lowing five business owners with their TBL Group titles: Sonny been with AFC Transportation for over 20 years. They know and El-Lahham (Chairman and stepfather of John Ferrari), John love this business, support our family atmosphere and keep everyFerrari (CEO), Chris Jarrard (President & COO), Tanner thing running smoothly.” West (CFO) and Thom Fox (CCO). The latter three executives ONE THING LEADS TO ANOTHER: are from Echo Transportation, which was formed in 2010. A TRANSPORTATION COMPANY IS BORN The merger brought together a diverse network of territories in Texas — including the cities of Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, San Angelo, Waco and Tyler — with more room to grow. According to he beginning of AFC Transportation dates to January Ferrari, additional acquisitions are planned for the future, as the 1992, not in the transport business per se, but rather in fine TBL Group looks to expand its service reach within the golden tridining. angle of Texas (between Houston, Dallas and San Antonio/Austin) “My stepfather (Sonny El-Lahham) owned several three-, fourand beyond. In addition, the TBL Group also has a presence in and five-star restaurants in the Houston area. We were always Alaska, Florida, California and Wyoming. working with ground transportation companies, such as limousine Helping AFC Transportat providers, on behalf of our restaurant clients ion officials manage their who needed such services,” Ferrari said. “We have recognized that demands within part of this growing enter“Eventually, we decided to purchase our own transportation evolve. This is true not only prise — which now includes limousine. The next thing we knew, in a with technology, but with the utilization of additional customers, vehiyear’s time, there were seven such vehicles vehicles. When you see one type of vehicle under our ownership. After the second year, cles and facilities — are the company’s 500-plus employnot producing like it once did, it’s critical to there were 15. It just kept growing.” ees. As Ferrari is quick to Eventually, AFC Transportation became its figure out why, and then alter the type of attest, no one person can do own entity, seeking customers for other types everything to ensure vehicles vehicles in your fleet to meet new demands.” of transport services. are running on time and cus“I have now been involved with the trans— AFC Transportation President John Ferrari tomers are safe and satisfied. portation business for a little over 25 years. “It’s imperative that a great team is in place. We have a phenom- Time has flown by. We entered the bus sector in 1994, the school bus enal group of employees,” he said. “Some of our employees have sector in 1997 and the motorcoach sector in 1999,” Ferrari said.
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Officials at AFC Trans to meet new demands. portation have been able to “Over the years, this is grow the business over the what AFC Transportation has years in the Houston market done, and it has helped our despite various economic company grow. We altered downturns and other chalour vehicle types to match lenges. A key, Ferrari said, changes in the market within was recognizing in the late our service region.� 1990s, that business demands Another big push for the were shifting toward a company came in 2015, greater need for buses and with the merger with Echo motorcoaches compared to Transportation. sedans and limousines. “Sonny and I were looking “This demand for bus for a partner to help us take transportation continues to the business to the next level, grow. Today, the bus busito grow not only in the ness is our largest sector. It Houston market, but further includes our minicoach and into Texas,� Ferrari said. “It motorcoach work as well,� also helps to grow when a Ferrari said. “As a company, business can rely on a greater we, at AFC Transportation, number of people for suphave been able to maneuport. The partner or partners verer with the changes. we were looking for had to Everything in life is part of a have the same vision and Among the drivers at AFC Transportation are, left to right, cycle. If you stay stagnant safety culture as AFC TranDavid Diaz, Steven Simpson, Olga Muhammad and Theodore Merrell. and don’t evolve, you are sportation. We found this going to wither away. We have recognized, over the years, that with Echo Transportation, headed by Chris (Jarrard), Tanner demands within transportation evolve. This is true not only with (West) and Thom (Fox). They are just like Sonny and myself when technology, but with the utilization of vehicles. When you see it comes to our transportation vision. We all have the same thought one type of vehicle not producing like it once did, it’s critical to process, when it comes to business, which has been exhibited over figure out why, and then alter the type of vehicles in your fleet the past two years. It’s been a fantastic relationship.�
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FC/Echo Transportation operates five facilities. Along with its headquarters in Houston, the company has locations in the Texas cities of Dallas, Waco and Tyler. It also has a facility in Big Piney, WY, while there are also vehicles stationed in Los Angeles, CA. “Our two major facilities are located in Houston and Dallas, and include everything that can be imagined to keep a fleet of vehicles running and looking good,” Ferrari said. “Our other facilities are of a smaller scale, but are still fully equipped.” Although AFC Transportation vehicles can be found servicing customers throughout the United States, especially in the western half of the country, the company’s main region remains The Lone Star State. “It helps that Sonny and I are Houstonians, while our partners (from Echo Transportation) are from Dallas and Fort Worth,” Ferrari said. “Therefore, it’s natural that our core market area remains in Texas. There are expansion plans that have us heading east and west. We will currently go anywhere in the United States that requires a ground transportation service, and are growing organically in different areas. We will also continue to look for acquisition opportunities over time. “The main objective, however, is to be able to take our customers to the places they want to visit.” Many of these customers are enjoying their rides in new Irizar i6 motorcoaches, which have been introduced into the AFC Transportation fleet over the past few years.
“We currently have four Irizar i6s in our fleet. What first intrigued me about the Irizar i6, was its exterior appearance. There is a curvy, futuristic front appeal to the vehicle that captures people’s attention,” Ferrari said. “I had the pleasure of touring the Irizar manufacturing facility, in Spain, to see how these vehicles are being made. The experience was very impressive.” Since then, Ferrari and his company have developed a strong relationship with not only Irizar, but INA Bus Sales, of Las Vegas, NV, which is the exclusive U.S. distributor for the Irizar i6 56-passenger, 45-foot motorcoach, along with the vehicle’s parts and service. “I work with INA Bus Sales Chief Operating Officer Chad Dixon, who has greatly helped us with the purchase of our four Irizar i6 motorcoaches,” Ferrari said. “We are really enjoying these vehicles. The ride is extremely comfortable, and the onboard technology is wonderful. I know the people behind the Irizar i6 are continuing to develop additional technology for the future. I’m proud of our partnership with Irizar and INA Bus Sales. The support from these two companies has been very good.” AFC Transportation’s four Irizar i6 motorcoaches are used for all types of service — from local transfer work to out-of-town charters headed anywhere in the United States. “This includes church and school groups to corporate clients. We have had no issues with our Irizar i6 motorcoaches. They feature a different look and feel,” Ferrari said. “Our drivers and passengers have been impressed.” No matter the vehicle type, however, there are certain amenities that are of the utmost importance for today’s bus/motorcoach travelers — mainly the ability to be “plugged in.”
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“The feature most requested by today’s consumers is to have plug-ins on board for their electronic devices, such as cell phones and tablets. They want to get ‘powered up,’ preferably from a USB plug, while riding in our vehicles,� Ferrari said. “Along with providing a comfortable and clean ride in a newer vehicle, a lot of passengers are also impressed with our audio/visual capabilities. This is especially important for people who are taking part in overthe-road trips to another city or state. Many of these passengers like to pass time by watching videos or DVDs.�
taking place,� Ferrari said. He explained that the problem of excessive idling is two-fold. “No. 1, we don’t want a vehicle continuously idling in a residential area and disturbing the neighbors,� he said. “The No. 2 problem of excessive idling, of course, has to do with fuel consumption. Fuel is expensive and should be conserved. Therefore, when drivers are waiting for a long period of time, we don’t want them in the vehicle with the engine running. We want these drivers off-duty and relaxing in some comfortable place.� Preventing excessive idling also helps AFC “We started an initiative years ago to reduce our carbon footprint Transportation become a more eco-friendly comby 2 percent per year. This includes not only reducing excessive pany, something that is very important to Ferrari and his co-workers. idling and purchasing vehicles that are more fuel efficient, but “We started an initiative years ago to reduce our taking other steps such as purchasing fewer disposable items for carbon footprint by 2 percent per year. This the office and using more electronic documents...� includes not only reducing excessive idling and purchasing vehicles that are more fuel efficient, but Other technological advancements important to AFC taking other steps such as purchasing fewer disposable items for Transportation officials are the use of GPS and video/audio sur- the office and using more electronic documents rather than simveillance equipment. These items are required for all of the ply printing paper all of the time,� Ferrari said. “This has all company’s 300-plus vehicles before they are put into operation. helped us reduce our footprint, for the benefit of the environ“We believe technology is extremely important, and are ment around us.� always open to new safety devices from today’s technology. We Taking steps to improve the environment has grown in imporlove the ability to know exactly where our vehicles are located, tance for many companies and individuals over the past 20-plus and whether they are running or not. It’s also important to see years. One demand from customers, however, is much older — how fast they are going, whether the engine is on or off, whether the desire to ride in a clean vehicle. No matter the vehicle type, they are turning left or right, and whether excessive idling is this need for cleanliness cannot be over-emphasized.
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At AFC Transportation, each vehicle is cleaned and inspected after use. This involves detailers who make sure both the exterior and interior of every sedan, limousine, bus and motorcoach is ready for the next trip. It’s important that all of the little things don’t go unnoticed, such as making sure seats, arm rests and window shades are returned to their proper positions. After all of these steps take place, each vehicle is then parked and ready for the next destination, whether across town or across country. Along with cleanliness, AFC Trans portation has a long history of maintaining a fleet of colorful motorcoaches. There was reasoning behind the initial decision to incorporate a rainbow of exterior colors. “When AFC Transportation entered the motorcoach sector in 1999, we wanted to stand out from our competition. Traditionally, most motorcoach companies operated white vehiAFC Transportation has a wide variety of vehicles in its 300-plus fleet. cles. We wanted to be different, and thus built a fleet full of varying exterior colors. This DEDICATED EMPLOYEES PROVIDE VALUE included green, silver, blue, red, yellow, orange and black coaches,� Ferrari said. “Our company’s decal on each coach remains the f it’s true that you must like what you do in order to do it same, but many of these vehicles are of a different color. well, then AFC Transportation has no shortage of happy “It’s a real attention-getter when you see several of our ‘rainand quality employees. Many of the 500-plus people who bow of motorcoaches’ heading down the road in single file.� work at the company have demonstrated their loyalty and dedi-
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cation time and time again, according to Ferrari, and have remained at the business for a large part of its 25-year existence. The average length of employment among employees at AFC Transportation is 7 to 10 years. The majority of these people are drivers, while others work as reservationists, dispatchers, safety personnel, accountants, sales people, detailers, mechanics and mobile service technicians.
will probably do a good job. A good driver also never loses focus for what he/she is doing,” he said. “This involves staying away for cellular devices while driving, and adopting this type of behavior even in their personal lives. “It’s easy to become complacent after driving a vehicle year after year. However, the drivers who stay out of accidents are the ones who continuously watch the road and their surroundings, looking for any type of situation that could be a problem two or three vehicles ahead of them. “No. 1, I feel a driver must have great self respect. This is true for These are attributes that make a great driver.” every type of job, but especially the driver. If our drivers respect Developing and demonstrating solid people themselves and understand that every person they are driving is very skills is another area of high importance. According to Ferrari, this includes being corvaluable and important, then they will probably do a good job.” dial, helping passengers with any problems and/or questions that come up, and going Although all positions are vital, the “face” of AFC above and beyond the overall expectations of passengers Transportation for many passengers/customers is the drivers. “All of these characteristics make a great driver,” Ferrari said. This is true whether operating a sedan, limousine, transit bus, “We provide a very robust training program, depending on which double-decker or over-the-road motorcoach. It’s a job not for division of our business a driver is entering. Our shortest trainthe timid, and requires much dedication and responsibility. ing program lasts one week, while our longest, involving the Ferrari outlined important attributes he feels are important transit sector, runs for three weeks. All of these programs involve to possess while operating a vehicle full of passengers, often classroom instruction as well as in-vehicle and over-the-road while traveling on different types of roads and during some- training. “Before candidates are allowed on the road, they must pass times difficult driving conditions. “No. 1, I feel a driver must have great self respect. This is tests associated with classroom training. When on the road, they true for every type of job, but especially the driver. If our go through assessment training with our certified trainers, who drivers respect themselves and understand that every person watch every move of these applicants.” AFC Transportation uses the Smith System training program they are driving is very valuable and important, then they
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to ensure that all drivers receive exacting instruction prior to moting safe driving behaviors among employees. Education, actual vehicle operation. This system integrates training that is training and other activities centered on traffic safety were condesigned to educate drivers on collision avoidance, with the goal sidered. of modifying driving habits so drivers will be more defensive As a transportation provider, being safe means a lot of things, and at-the-ready for any situation. including the ability to hire quality drivers. However, many of Refresher training is also practiced at AFC Transportation. today’s bus/motorcoach company leaders have reported on dif“We not only monitor and recertify our drivers, we also meas- ficulties when it comes to finding and hiring such individuals. ure the effectiveness of our coaching staff who are providing the Ferrari believes this challenge varies a bit in the industry, training. It’s important to depending on specific look for any reoccurring “We not only monitor and recertify our drivers, we also measure market areas. “In the Houston marproblems, figuring out the effectiveness of our coaching staff who are providing the ket, a lot of our staff what is the root cause of training. It’s important to look for any reoccurring problems...” have been found via those problems,” Ferrari said. “We want to know, word-of-mouth. They ‘Is it our coaching method or the drivers’ habits that are causing the come from different companies that are experiencing slower problem?’ By going through all of these different steps, we have periods of work. These people are looking for more hours,” he been able to greatly reduce incidents and accidents over the years.” said. “I feel people are attracted to our company due to what These efforts have not gone unnoticed. For example, AFC they have heard from our own employees. We are able to proTransportation is a recent three-time recipient of the National vide many things that a person looks for when seeking employSafety Council’s “Our Driving Concern” Traffic Safety Award, ment. This includes benefits and quality training opportunities.” receiving this honor in 2014, 2016 and 2017. Presented in partOfficials at AFC Transportation have also recently found sucnership with the Texas Department of Transportation, the award cess finding employees, including drivers, through targeted recognizes employers who have demonstrated an outstanding social media campaigns. “This has helped provide us with a great pool of bus operacommitment to the safety and well-being of their employees, tors,” Ferrari said. both on and off the job, in the area of traffic safety. He also addressed the future of vehicle operation, which one The honorees of this award were selected through an application process that evaluated each company’s commitment to pro- day could include driverless buses and motorcoaches.
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“I feel this is part of the “In today’s transportation world, if you meet a customer’s expectation, future, and will probably become more common within you have done your job. However, if you can exceed that customer’s expectation, you have left a positive impression and memory that can result in repeat the next decade. There are tests already involving selfbusiness. Our business model is based on exceeding customer expectations.” driving 18-wheeler trucks, A GREAT INDUSTRY TO BE IN and I know of another program where a self-driving bus is being tested,” Ferrari said. “It’s hard for me to speculate where this ore than just a provider of vehicles to transport people technology is heading. People like to interact with people. There from point “A” to point “B”, the staff behind AFC will be concerns, especially in the beginning, from those pasTransportation works hard on the customer service side sengers who are not comfortable with the idea of a bus driving itself. It will take time for many to accept this idea, especially at of conducting business. “It’s important to place ourselves in our customers’ shoes, higher speeds.” knowing that, they want to be treated the same way we would want to be treated (while taking a trip),” Ferrari said. “With that in mind, it’s important that our vehicles ® arrive on time and are clean. They also must be driven by a professional who is properly trained and in uniform. These are the simple keys to success. “We also strive to make sure that a relaxing ride is being provided, and that all the little things have been taken care of, which can be the difference between an average and a great trip. “In today’s transportation world, if you meet a customer’s expectation, you have done your job. However, if you can exceed that customer’s expectation, you have left a positive impression and memory that can result in repeat business. Our business model is based on exceeding customer expectations.” AFC Transportation also employs an aggressive team of people who concentrate on Web and social media development. This includes monthly social media editorials that highlight exciting places for travelers to visit. “This is not always centered on trying to sell our transportation services, but instead helping consumers better understand what sites and events are available in various locations,” Ferrari said. “We also stress that WEH offers a wide range of NGV1 compatible products AFC Transportation is a one-stop shop. We for safe and easy CNG vehicle refueling: provide a wide variety of services to meet different travel needs. This is the advantage » Check Valves » Fueling Nozzles to having so many different types of vehi» Filters » Receptacles cles in our fleet.” Of course, there are always challenges in » Hoses » Breakaways business. Ferrari addressed two specific ones that many North American transportation providers are facing. WEH Technologies Inc. | Katy, TX | Call us: 832-331-0021 “The No. 1 challenge I think a lot of companies are experiencing comes from certain competitors who are reducing their own rates to extreme levels. This can bring overwww.weh.us all market pricing down to a very low position. It hurts those companies that are trying
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to grow in a healthy way,” Ferrari said. “We, as an organization, On-demand services are growing in importance as more people seek those consumers who are looking to conduct business with a become accustomed to ordering products online, and having them quality transportation company, one that can provide safe and delivered the same or the next day,” Ferrari said. “In the ground newer vehicles, well-trained drivers and a well-earned reputation transportation world, companies are going to have to adapt and for excellence.” change to survive. We recognize this at the TBL Group, and have The second challenge Ferrari discussed concerns the influx of started to change to meet these new needs.” new competitors in the marketplace that are specializing in onFerrari said he is happy to have made a career in the transportademand transportation. tion industry, calling it, “A wonderful, great industry to be in. “This challenge has not affected us (at AFC Transportation) “But to be in it,” he added, “you have to love people. You realvery much, knock on wood, in our Houston market. There are ly have to enjoy working in a customer service-oriented business. other established operators, however, that have been negatively Every day is different. Every day is a challenge. Every day is a affected by ‘the Ubers of the world.’ Some have even gone out of reward. No two days are alike.” business,” he said. “To survive this challenge, it’s important to Contact: AFC Transportation, 15734 Aldine Westfield Rd., adapt to the changing transportation marketplace, and go after Houston, TX 77032. Phone: 713-988-5466. more contracts with corporations, event planners, etc. Website: www.afchouston.com. “We have a pilot program Article: APTA show advertisement being tested that is directed ADVERTORIAL New generation of LTO powered lithium ion battery systems toward the on-demand sedan market in Houston. It allows In the past has powered battery systems often by using Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) due to its corporations, for example, to intrinsic safety features (no thermal runaway) and high discharge capabilities. Just look at the steep inclines in use an on-demand sedan from Seattle and San Francisco that Voltabox equipped buses overcome easily on a daily basis. an established company (AFC Well, what is beyond LFP bus batteries? Voltabox recently introduced new highly sophisticated Lithium Titanate Transportation), one that pro(LTO) based batteries for bus and other applications. vides a high safety culture, is properly insured and employs Currently the company offers several modules with LTO chemistry. One is a high voltage module with 83 V qualified drivers who receive nominal. This robust and powerful module, with an outstanding cycle life, has been specially designed to a high level of training.” accommodate the high demands of electric bus applications. Voltabox already assembled many battery systems with the corresponding technology and those systems have been successfully deployed to the field in several Despite such challenges, European and US cities. Ferrari is very bullish on the future of AFC Transportation The fundamental Voltabox idea is based on standardized, innovative battery modules that include the newest and the overall TBL Group. generaƚŝŽŶ ŽĨ sŽůƚĂďŽdž͛Ɛ ŽǁŶ ĂĚǀĂŶĐĞĚ proprietary Battery Management System. This approach allows a huge He said the top priority of the variety of configurations, thus enabling the production of tailor made, yet cost-efficient, batteries. In short, we group is to remain as strong are an energy/power solutions provider! and safe as possible, while With its Voltabox location in Austin, TX, USA, the German founded battery integrator has achieved Buy American making sure employees are Compliance during several trolley bus projects ʹ first in 2014 and then again in 2016. treated well and feel they are part of a true family. Voltabox takes great pride in being a world leader in advanced, custom configured lithium ion battery system “Even though we have over solutions tailored to your specific need. 500 employees (at AFC TranPlease visit us at Wd ͛Ɛ yWK ϮϬϭϳ, Hall B4, booth 3323 sportation), our people are not just a number. They truly become a part of our family and we, as a company, care. Once an employee feels he/she is part of a family and part of a team, then success will follow. It becomes a win/win situation,” Ferrari said. “If an organization is successful, then every team member should also be successful.” He added that AFC Tran sportation will continue to expand its product and service diversity in the future, and will adapt to different technologies as they become available and demanded by Figure 1:LTO based trolleybus battery system tomorrow’s consumers. “As in life, business changes. September/October 2017
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Prevost® Opens Service Center In The San Francisco Bay Area Prevost has opened its newest service center in the San Francisco area of California. “Expanding on what is already the largest service network in the industry, the new location in northern California will allow Prevost to better serve the most populated state in the country,” said the company. The Bay Area location, which opened on August 1, is a full-service facility, staffed by factory-trained technicians servicing Prevost, Nova Bus® and Volvo® coaches, as well as other brands. “In addition, two mobile service vans are based out of the new location in order to offer convenience and increase the service area.” Located in Newark, CA, in the heart of Silicon Valley, the service center is in close proximity to San Francisco, San Juan and Oakland. “The newest addition to the Prevost
Service Network is in response to our West Coast customers’ requirements for more options and accessibility to our services. We will continue to grow in an ongoing commitment to our customers’ needs to maintain the largest and strongest service network in North America,” said Service Network Director, Randy Castillo. The Prevost Service Network now offers 11 Prevost Parts & Service® Centers, 54 mobile service vans and about 200 certified service providers. Prevost is a manufacturer of intercity touring coaches and produces conversion coaches for high-end motorhome and specialty conversion. It is part of the Volvo Group. Prevost has its main manufacturing facilities in SainteClaire, Quebec, Canada, and has 10 parts and service centers located in the United States and Canada. Visit www.prevostcar.com for more.
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September/October 2017
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Los Angeles Metro Board Awards Contracts To BYD
PACCAR Parts Opens 100th Global TRP Store PACCAR Parts has opened a TRP Store in Alexandria, LA. It is the company’s 100th TRP Store. TRP is PACCAR’s global brand of aftermarket replacement parts for all makes and models of trucks, trailers and buses. “TRP Stores add a new level of parts quality, availability, delivery and customer service to commercial vehicle owners and operators around the world,” said PACCAR. The new store was opened by Kenworth of Louisiana. The first TRP Stores opened in 2013 in Europe, the United Kingdom and in Mexico. Since then, the TRP Store network has expanded into 27 countries. TRP Alexandria is open extended hours to serve local and transient customers with a selection of parts supported by trained professionals with expertise in heavy and medium-duty commercial vehicle products. “We are proud to celebrate this milestone of 100 global TRP Stores,” said David Danforth, general manager at PACCAR Parts and PACCAR vice president. “TRP
Stores are trusted in the industry to provide a superior selection of quality all-makes replacement parts at competitive prices. “Our products exceed customer expectations for quality and value and are backed by an industry-leading warranty and nationwide availability.” TRP parts for trucks, trailers and buses are distributed exclusively by PACCAR Parts, a division of PACCAR Inc, and are available globally through authorized retailers that include TRP Stores as well as DAF, Kenworth and Peterbilt dealerships. For more information, visit TRPParts.com. PACCAR Parts operates a global network of parts distribution centers that offer aftermarket parts sales support to DAF, Kenworth and Peterbilt dealerships and TRP Stores around the world. The company provides brands that meet OEM specifications. For more information, visit PACCARParts.com.
“In a unanimous vote, the board of Los Angeles Metro awarded a contract for 60, 40foot all-electric buses to BYD. This is among the largest single contracts for electric buses in U.S. history, and will directly lead to 59 new manufacturing jobs at the BYD factory in Lancaster, CA,” according to a press release. This award comes weeks after BYD signed a Community Benefits Agreement with the Jobs to Move America Coalition, which includes community, faith, labor, and environmental organizations working to advance good job and equity outcomes through transit investments, and as BYD moves forward on union negotiations with the Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers Local 105. The factory in Lancaster currently employs over 600 Californians making buses and trucks. Specifications and technical data on the 40-foot BYD bus, which has a range of over 160 miles, can be found at: http://www.byd.com/usa/bus/k9electric-transit-bus/#specs. BYD has more than 17,500 buses in service. For more information, visit www.byd.com.
See us At APTA Booth #1922 September/October 2017
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ADVERTORIAL
ABC Companies And Van Hool Celebrate 30 Years Of Business Partnership
Shown, from left to right, are Frank Smulders, Benedicte Gruwez, Filip Van Hool and Jan Van Hool, all from Van Hool, and from ABC Companies are Dane Cornell, Roman Cornell, Ryhan Cornell and Ashley Cornell.
Since the two families joined forces in 1987, their shared vision has centered on developing and maintaining extraordinary relationships with their customers. With a unique premium European product offering, supported by ABC’s established distribution, sales, parts and service network, the partners continue to distinguish the brand and demand for the Van Hool product in the American marketplace. From the very beginning, both families understood that listening to the customer and responding to their needs and demands would be crucial to success. Over three decades Van Hool has modified equipment models and subsequently introduced ongoing series of fully-Americanized versions that have steadily gained popularity, grown market and mindshare and increased customer loyalty year in and out. “There are a number of key turning points in our history together,” said Roman Cornell,
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ADVERTORIAL
ABC Chief Commercial Officer. “And it’s exciting to see where the breakthroughs occurred.” Most notably was the breakaway success of the Van Hool C2000 series introduced in 2000. Built exclusively from the top down for the North American market, within a year it not only became the most popular imported coach in the United States, it also outsold all the other imported coach models combined. “Customers loved this product because it was the direct result of listening to their input,” continues Cornell. “While they know to expect premium quality and support from Van Hool and ABC, I believe what they really appreciate is the hands-on aspect of working with both of our companies.” Today, with over 10,000 Van Hool coaches on the road, and three generations of ABC and Van Hool family leadership, the brand dominates the highway coach private market segment. “Customers know that we are just as invested in surviving and succeeding as they are,” says Filip Van Hool, CEO of the eponymous firm. He believes that the family-oriented cultures at both ABC and Van Hool, makes it easy for customers to do business with their firms. Van Hool says that there are significant benefits that are simply not applicable when transacting with a larger corporate structure. “Our priority is to give customers the confidence and the solutions they need to support their operations,” says Dane Cornell. And, he believes that ABC’s entrepreneurial business approach supports that objective. Cornell notes that few manufacturers can claim that they’ve had three generations actively run a successful business, a trait they share with many operators throughout North America. Similarly, the CX35 Van Hool model was introduced to answer operator calls for a smaller version of the popular CX45 (45-foot) coach with a reduced passenger capacity that would not sacrifice the “big coach” look, style and feel. The new CX35 model has been another success with orders exceeding expectations and thanks to a standardized design and manufacturing and numerous interchangeable parts with the 45-foot version, operators can realize significant parts, as well as driver training savings when running both models in their fleets. The partners are committed to future-looking innovation and investments that contribute to greater control and efficiencies for their customers and their own business strategies. Plans to expand and strengthen their parts business supply chain will afford faster access to needed components for customers, according to Roman Cornell. “We envision growing our supply chain and distribution network to tightly sync with operator requirements when and where support is needed all over North America.” Cornell also references the innumerable technologies emerging each year that can truly impact operational efficiency. “ABC and Van Hool are focused on rapid technology adoption, and whenever possible being first to market with tech-driven solutions for our operators.” “We’re proud and grateful to celebrate 30 years of partnership,” says Dane Cornell. “We
look forward to continuing to serve our customers, our communities and our industry for decades to come.” ABC Companies is a leading provider to the transportation industry with diverse product and service offerings that cover a full spectrum of operational needs, including new and pre-owned full-size highway coach equipment and specialty vehicles. ABC supports customers with a comprehensive after-sale service network for service and repairs, collision services, extensive OEM and quality aftermarket parts needs for transit, motorcoach and heavy-duty equipment from nine strategically placed locations throughout the U.S. and Canada. Additionally, private and municipal financing and leasing options are available through the company's financial services group – one of the largest financial service providers within the industry. For more information, contact ABC Companies at 800-222-2875 or visit www.abc-companies.com.
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Labor And Community Groups Sign Agreement With BYD In Los Angeles “Jobs to Move America (JMA), a coalition of community-based groups and BYD Motors, have signed a community benefits agreement (CBA) that will create pathways into the manufacturing industry for under-represented and underserved populations in Los Angeles County,” said BYD. “The CBA between JMA and BYD is a legally enforceable agreement that will support the creation of a U.S. jobs program through investments in pre-apprenticeship and training programs. BYD has committed to a goal of recruiting and hiring 40 percent of its workers from populations facing significant barriers to employment, such as veterans and returning citizens. In addition, populations that have historically been excluded from the manufacturing industry, such as women and African Americans, will be also be recruited and placed. The agreement also includes commitments from BYD to work with the JMA coalition to provide support systems for these workers to strengthen retention efforts, such as providing transportation for workers who may not have access to a car.” Madeline Janis, executive director of Jobs to Move America, said, “Jobs to Move America commends BYD on its commitment to highquality U.S. manufacturing jobs with support and access to women, communities of color and people with barriers to employment. For more than three years, we have worked with SMART,
and other coalition partners, to develop a comprehensive agreement with BYD that ensures we maximize returns on our public transportation investments in the form of good living wage jobs for Angelenos and access for all. The elec-
Photo Credit: BYD
BYD commits to hiring 40 percent of its workers from the population including veterans, women and African Americans.
tric bus industry is new to the U.S., so it is important that communities, unions, public officials and businesses work together to grow the industry responsibly and effectively. This agreement is one of many first steps to showing that we can embrace new technology and create good jobs for people in our region. “At BYD, our core values are about cleaning the air and creating great jobs here in California,” said Macy Neshati, senior vice pres-
ident of BYD Heavy Industries. “This commitment is the result of a collaborative process that brought community and business leaders together, and we’re proud to sign this important commitment to the BYD community. BYD is proud to be investing in good jobs, apprenticeships and training programs for the community, and continued growth. We look forward to working closely with the community to make it happen.” Most of the jobs will be created in the City of Lancaster, where one of BYD’s facilities is located. The agreement comes after a successful “card-check” vote at the BYD factory in Lancaster, CA, at which the employees voted to recognize SMART Local 105 as their official bargaining unit. “BYD is the only electric bus manufacturer with a workforce represented by a union, meaning workers will have a seat at the negotiating table around their wages, benefits, and working conditions. Now, as the only electric bus manufacturer with a bona fide Community Benefits Agreement, the community will also have a seat at the table to make sure the county’s most struggling populations have a pathway into the middle class,” said Luther Medina, president/business manager of SMART Local 105. To read highlights of the agreement, visit http://local105.org. Visit BYD at www.byd.com.
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From RUD Chain, Inc.
Traction Chains Help Prevent Winter Weather Related Accidents “Automatic snow chain systems ensure that the driver is well equipped for all road conditions, and that if the driver suddenly finds himself/herself on black-ice or snow-packed ice, a flip of the switch can deploy the automatic traction chains and keep the vehicle under control and on the road,” according to a press release from RUD Chain, Inc. “It has not been until recently that automatic tire chains were available for motor coaches and public transit buses, due to the low profile and lack of clearance. The RUD Group has developed a solution to overcome the clearance issue by developing a compact version of its ROTOGRIP® automatic tire chain system. The system allows transit buses the same safety on slick wintery roads that utility and emergency vehicles already have, when utilizing an automatic traction device. “Drivers can deploy automatic snow and ice chains with a flip-ofa-switch from the driver's seat, while the vehicle is moving. Since the
automatic tire chains can be engaged and disengaged from the driver’s seat, the vehicle and its passengers can stay on schedule. RUD’s automatic chain system has the ability to also work well in reverse, providing excellent traction at speeds as low as (3-4-mph). Also, the RUD CS version can fit a broader range of vehicles and suspensions.” RUD’s chain wheels consist of three separate parts: the chain plate, the contact ring and the synthetic carrier wheel. An advantage of ROTOGRIP® systems, according to the company, is that wear parts can be quickly and easily changed as needed. “ROTOGRIP® can be adjusted to fit a wide range of vehicles, due to its universal mounting system. The universal mounting system can be installed in approximately four hours. It does not require a lot of effort in fitting or maintenance, and RUD backs up its products with training and customer service.” Visit RUD Chain online at www.rotogrip.us.
See us At APTA Booth #7415 September/October 2017
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PERSONNEL CH Bus Sales Promotes Randy Angell To Vice President Of Sales/Service CH Bus Sales, the exclusive distributor of Temsa motorcoaches in North America, has promoted Randy Angell to vice president of sales & service. He remains the primary account executive for his current regional accounts, but will also continue to manage the Midwest and Randy Angell Western regions, to drive sales and improve service & support for all CH Bus/ TEMSA customers. Angell joined the company in 2011 as an account executive. Stuart Mayes Is New ARBOC Regional Sales Manager Low-floor bus manufacturer, ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, has hired Stuart Mayes as a regional sales manager. Mayes is responsible for servicing existing accounts and establishing new customers throughout the United States and Canada. “Following his graduation from Elkhart Central (Indiana) in 2003, Mayes attended
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Stuart Mayes
September/October 2017
the University of Montana, where his Division 1 basketball team made it to the NCAA tournament. Immediately prior to his position at ARBOC, Mayes worked as a sales coordinator/trainee for Heartland RV. He also has been a substitute teacher and a basketball coach. Mayes can be reached at smayes@ARBOC.com. Laketran Promotes Ben Capelle To General Manager The Laketran (Painsville Twp., OH) board of trustees has promoted Ben Capelle to Laketran general manager. Capelle was formerly deputy general manager. “Joining Laketran in 2012, Capelle led the implementation of technology upgrades including Laketran’s GPS navigation and tracking, automatic bus locaBen Capelle tors and online reservations for Dial-aRide. Capelle also spearheaded the transition to propane fuel for Laketran’s Dial-a-Ride bus fleet. Capelle was promoted to deputy general manager in April 2016,” according to a press release. Prior to joining Laketran, Capelle served as the general manager of Clermont Transportation Connection, in Clermont County, OH. Capelle succeeds Ray Jurkowski, who announced his retirement earlier this year and had served Laketran as general manager since 2003.
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HART Continues To Move Away From Diesel The Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART), Tampa, FL, said that since 2014, HART vehicles have consumed the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) equivalent of 1 million gallons of diesel fuel. These CNG equivalency units are referred to as Diesel Gallon Equivalents (DGEs).
“Transitioning to alternative fuel buses is part of the agency's multiyear plan to reduce the environmental impact of operations, and continue delivering a strong value proposition to taxpayers. By reaching the milestone of 1 million DGEs of CNG, HART has reduced its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2,826-metric tons. This is the equivalent of taking 597 passenger cars off the road for one year,� said HART CEO Katharine Eagan. "The decision to switch to compressed natural gas allows us to be even
better stewards of taxpayer money and of the environment. HART understands the importance of this investment as it contributes to a sustainable community." The transition to CNG is one aspect of the overall HART Environmental and Sustainability Management System. CNG also increased electricity consumption from the use of compressors in the CNG station. "Increased electricity consumption can be an unintended consequence of using natural gas as a transportation fuel," said HART environmental program manager Thomas Jones. "In effect, there have been some trade-off between reduced GHG emissions from our fleet vehicles, and the environmental impacts associated with increased electricity consumption." With this knowledge, HART said it has shifted its focus to improving the energy efficiency of the CNG station and designing programs to off-set the environmental impacts of electricity consumption. HART energy management partners, Integral Energy and Trillium CNG Inc., are currently in the process of completing a series of system upgrades, and have set a target for reducing the energy intensity of the CNG equipment by 25 percent. CNG buses have been replacing aging diesel buses in the HART fleet that are between 12 and 15 years old. HART is expected to replace more than half of its existing fleet by 2021, with the ongoing fleet transition expected to be complete by 2025. The agency currently has 25 CNG buses, with another 25 CNG buses to be delivered by October 2017. This is in addition to 39 CNG HARTPlus vans, and eight CNG HARTFlex vans. For more information, visit www.goHART.org.
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Austin Mohawk and Company Inc. 2175 Beechgrove Pl. Utica, NY 13501 USA Toll Free: 800-765-3110 Email: sales@austinmohawk.com Website: www.austinmohawk.com Products: A selection of pre-manufactured structures of bus and transit shelters. Built with high quality aluminum or steel. Shelters are durable, attractive, and can be equipped with budget-conscious features such as new LED solar lighting. All Austin Mohawk shelters meet or exceed International Building Code (IBC) standards. Fast turnaround times and professional installation anywhere in the continental United States. Austin Mohawk has spent more than 80 years building prefabricated structures. Product line-up includes pre-manufactured buildings, shelters, press boxes, and overhead metal canopies. Custom built structures are modular and functional. A Veteran owned business. 13 BikeLid LLC P.O. Box 408 3430 Evergreen Point Rd. Medina, WA 98039 USA 206-963-7585 Website: www.BikeLid.com Products: Durable and secure Class 1 (longterm) public parking bike locker. Tough, lightweight, graffiti resistant polyethylene shell, reinforced by steel, attached by spring-loaded hinge to a steel bike guide/frame. Provides protection for one to two full-sized bicycles. Bolts to any ground surface. Any color. Standard locking mechanism is secured by the bicyclist’s own lock. Optional pre-stalled locks include external U or monoblock locks, and internal key, combination, or on-demand electronic locks, including Park-by-Phone. 13 Page 62
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Brasco International, Inc. 32400 Industrial Dr. Madison Heights, MI 48071 USA Toll Free: 800-893-3665 Email: info@brasco.com Website: www.brasco.com Products: 100 percent in-house design and fabrication, made in Detroit, MI. Products include bus stop shelters, BRT station shelters, bike shelters, transit shelters, solar powered LED safety bollards, windscreens, advertising boxes, solar powered ad box retrofits, custom glass etching, roof retrofits, benches, bike racks, waste receptacles, shopping cart corrals, advertising signs, solar lighting retrofits, shade shelters, leaning rails, covered walkways and canopies. 14 Columbia Equipment Co., Inc. 180-10 93rd Ave. Jamaica, NY 11433 USA 718-658-5900 Website: www.columbiaequipment.com Products: A North American manufacturer of pre-fabricated aluminum bus shelters. Specializing in this field since 1961. Standard and custom designs, in a variety of sizes and configurations, and in all price ranges. Product line includes bus stop shelters, train station shelters, windscreens, smoking shelters, walkway canopies, information kiosks, ticket vending shelters and custom street furniture. 12 Daytech Limited 70 Disco Rd. Toronto, ON M9W 1L9 CANADA Toll Free: 877-329-1907 Email: info@daytechlimited.com Website: www.daytechlimited.com Products: A North American manufacturer of pre-fabricated transit shelters, bike shelters,
September/October 2017
canopies, street furniture and transit signage. Over 60,000 product installations in every corner of the continent. Can customize shelters for exact requirements. 13 Duo-Gard Industries Inc. 40442 Koppernick Rd. Canton, MI 48187 USA Toll Free: 800-872-4404 Email: info@duo-gard.com Website: www.duo-gard.com Products: Duo-Gard transit shelters provide versatility in size, styles and services that meet goals for aesthetics, performance and economy. This versatility is also found with Duo-Gard’s canopies, walkways, windbreaks, stairway enclosures, furniture, bike racks and other structures needed to complete a project. 10 EDF, Inc. P.O. Box 228 Jenison, MI 49428 USA 616-796-1260 Website: www.edfsolutions.com Products: EDF, Inc. manufactures the En Route line of steel framed passenger waiting shelters for permanent installation. Options available are windscreen enclosures, benches, display cases and solar powered LED lighting. All steel components are E-coated and powder coated. 12 Enseicom Inc. See Ad On Page 15 225 Norman Lachine, QC H8R 1A3 CANADA 514-486-2626 Email: info@enseicom.com Website: www.enseicom.com Company Officer: Constantine Moussis, President
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Products: Enseicom is a manufacturer of bus shelters, street furniture, electric signs, and billboard structures in North America. Staffed with in-house graphic, technical design teams and structural engineers, the company is constantly designing, researching and developing products with superior quality and serviceability, all the while integrating state-of-the-art green technologies. Its street furniture products are installed and serviced throughout North America and the Caribbean. 17 Handi-Hut, Inc. 3 Grunwald St. Clifton, NJ 07013 USA 973-614-1800 Email: staff@handi-hut.com Website: www.handi-hut.com Company Officers: Mel Cohen, President; John Cozza, Vice President Products: Bus shelters, smoking shelters, entry canopies, covered walkways, and solar lighting. 17 Madrax / Thomas Steele 1080 Uniek Dr. Waunakee, WI 53597 USA 608-849-1080 Email: sales@madrax.com
Website: www.madrax.com, www.thomas-steele.com Products: Maker of heavy-duty, high quality bike racks. 12 Mountain Shelter Solutions 6950 Base Line Wallaceburg, ON N8A 1A1 CANADA 877-588-8858 Email: sales@mountainsheltersolutions.com Website: www.mountainsheltersolutions.com Products: Provides transit shelters, smoking shelters, bicycle shelters, covered walkways, canopies, advertisement signs and street furniture. The company offers both power and offgrid options. All shelters are made with aluminum extrusions and components. Only stainless steel hardware is used during assembly. The company powder coats to AAMA2604 and 2605 standards. Ships to, and can install anywhere, in North America. 12 Poligon by PorterCorp 4240 136th Ave. Holland, MI 49424 USA 616-399-1963 Website: www.poligon.com Products: Standard and custom shade coverings for applications in steel, fabric and wood. Structures include transit shelters, walkway cov-
ers, pavilions, trellises, signs and fabric shade. An experienced sales staff can guide customers through the entire process and will work with them from initial design to completed installation. Wide selection of standard shelters can be fully customized. Protected with the powder coat finish Poli-5000®. Frame finishes are available in smooth and textured colors. The company also offers a variety of roof types and colors. 12 Tolar Manufacturing Co. 258 Mariah Cir. Carona, CA 92879 USA Toll Free: 800-339-6165 Email: info@tolarmfg.com Website: www.tolarmfg.com Products: Since 1991, Tolar Manufacturing has been producing transit shelters, kiosks, benches and trash receptacles. 08 Transitshelter.com 1953 N. 17th Ave. Melrose Park, IL 60160 USA 847-678-8425 Email: info@transitshelter.com Website: www.transitshelter.com Products: Transitshelter.com is a street furniture, urban decor project of Tafco Corporation. Products include bus shelters, windscreens, smoking shelters, kiosks and street decor. 10
EnerDel’s Vigor+ battery packs provide an off-the-shelf solution for electrifying urban mass transit and microgrid s approved for ESS solutions. The PP320-738-LP Vigor+ is use with the Allison Hybrid H40/50™ system Integrated safety features Robust, transportation grade enclosure Used in over 500 busses throughout the world sales@enerdel.com www.EnerDel.com
See us At APTA Booth #8817 September/October 2017
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News From MCI MCI Academy Receives ASE Accreditation The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has given MCI (Motor Coach Industries) Academy accreditation for its training program.
ASE is responsible for defining the Continuing Automotive Service Education (CASE) standards. A press release from MCI said, “The accreditation validates that MCI Academy’s liveinstructor and self-study online training meets CASE standards. As the first motor coach
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industry training institution to win this accreditation, MCI Academy joins a group including: 3M Automotive Aftermarket Division; BMW of North America; General Motors Service Technical College; and, Toyota and Penske Truck Leasing. “MCI Academy has built a multifaceted hands-on and online training program to further professionals’ skills on multiple coach systems – whenever they need it. Live events at MCI Academy’s training headquarters in Louisville, KY, include the Technical Tune-Up series, and professionals can access the Academy’s online Learning Management System (LMS) any time of the day or night.” The release continued: •System Qualifications – develops a high level of competence on the major systems; students must complete a combination of online courses, instructor-led training and testing; •Levels 1, 2 and 3 certification – to earn certificates, students need to complete designated System Qualifications; and, •Specialty diplomas in HVAC and electrical systems for various coach models. “In addition to meeting ASE Standards, the academy exceeded them, particularly in the way it designs its coursework,” said the release.
September/October 2017
“MCI launched LMS in 2015, and has more than 6,100 registered users accessing a growing library of more than 430 online courses. And to date, MCI has trained more than 1,200 technicians at its Tech Tune Up Louisville sessions.” For more on MCI Academy, and an upcoming training schedule, visit www.mciacademy.com
Babler Bus Service Adds New 2017 MCI J4500 Coach Door County, WI’s, Babler Bus Service recently added two pre-owned J4500 coaches, and a new 2017 MCI J4500 coach. Second-generation owner/CEO Paul Babler began to selectively update his coach fleet about five years ago, after taking over the family business from his parents. “We chose MCI simply because of the overall long-term reliability,” Babler said. He also said he likes what MCI’s Re-Energized program offers ‒ select post-2007 coaches, with 210-point mechanical and interior inspection, and repair to bring them to OEM standard with an OEM warranty to match. Babler’s new J4500 has powertrain seating with leather trim, accompanied by individual 110-volt outlets with USB ports for entertainment and comfort, tempered glass roof-hatches,
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the business. “Our trips help to fill the gaps between the busiest times of the year,� said Babler. “We decide on a special destination such as New Orleans, New York or Nashville, do our detailed research, and become tour guides on a fun and luxurious Babler expedition.� Visit Babler Bus at www.bablerbus.com. See information on MCI at www.mcicoach.com and www.newflyer.com.
a backup safety camera, chrome mirrors and a custom marble-look hydrographic spiral entryway, exclusive to MCI. Based in Sturgeon Bay, WI, Babler provides charter services for events such as weddings, ball games, school outings, ski trips, and church groups. The company’s most popular tours include Chicago staples like the annual Flower & Garden Show and year-round shopping and museum trips, Milwaukee Brewers’ games, a Branson, MO, holiday tour and the National Farm Machinery Show in Louisville, KY. Babler also serves Two Rivers and Manitowoc through Green Bay, and offers weekly casino tours departing from Door County, through Green Bay. Babler and his wife, Janet, create and lead their own destination tours, a growing aspect of
Jim Macdonald, vice president of MCI’s Quality and Customer Service Group, said, “The goal is to have the facility be an attractive destination for MCI and Setra coach operators, and serve them with OEM parts. Yet, we will have the capacity to work on other motor coach and bus brands as well.�
San Francisco Bay Area MCI Sales And Service Center Will Open In October MCI will open an MCI Sales and Service facility at 4120 Point Eden Way, Hayward, CA, in October, the second California center for MCI and its seventh in the United States and Canada. The two-story, 34,000-square-foot building covering 4.2 acres, in Hayward, features the coach diagnostic equipment and tooling with the capacity to provide service from general maintenance work to complete coach refurbishing. The service center will have 10 service bays including a paint booth. The rest of the facility will feature OEM parts pick-up, offices for administrative staff and technician training facilities.
“The City of Hayward sits on the eastern side of the San Francisco Bay area. The new MCI location is near the eastern end of the San Mateo-Hayward Bridge, easily accessible from the local interstates. City officials have welcomed MCI, providing assistance to ensure an on-time opening and success,� said the company. Visit www.mcicoach.com and www.newflyer.com.
RELIABILITY ITY EFFICIENCY Discover electricity
Air Conditioning Electric
PERFORMANCE NC
hermetic electric scroll compressor/s Ę“ a.c. motors Ę“ self-contained refrigerant loops Ę“ generator or hybrid bus power
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See us At APTA Booth #8434 September/October 2017
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Motor Coach Industries
Motor Coach Industries
MCI® Commuter Coach MCI® J4500 Designed for commuter express and built for highway speed, the MCI Commuter Coach, available in 40- and 45-foot clean diesel, hybrid or CNG configurations, offers low cost of ownership, and an excellent MDBF rate, measured as the No. 1 performer with the fewest failures per vehicle among all bus types. MCI also offers the market’s most extensive aftermarket parts and repair service for all makes and models; including quick response to transit parts procurements, technician training, and 24-hour technical support. MCI's all new innovative design for Commuter Rapid Transit with a breakthrough in passenger accessibility will be unveiled at APTA EXPO 2017. Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com
Model..........................................................................MCI® Commuter Coach Passenger Capacity .................................................................................57, 49 Length.......................................................................................................45’, 40’ Height..............................................................................................................137” Wheelbase...........................................................................................318”, 279” Headroom ..................................................................................................78.25” Turning Radius ..................................................................................47’, 44.70’ Interior Height..........................................................................................78.25” Fuel Tank Capacity......................................................................164 gal. CNG, 114.6 Diesel Gallon Equivalent (DGE) Chassis .............................................................................................Monocoque Fuel Options..........................................................Clean-diesel, hybrid, CNG Transmission Options................................................................Allison B500, Allison EP 50 Hybrid drive Engine Options....................................................Cummins ISL, ISX or ISL G Brakes ......................................................Air, Meritor all-wheel EX-225 disc with unitized hubs and preset GVWR...........................................................................50,000 lbs., 46,000 lbs.
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September/October 2017
For 2018, the MCI J4500 coach introduces a more spacious cabin, with best-in-class legroom and capacity, to seat 60 comfortably, along with a larger lavatory and optional rear window. Beautiful lighting throughout includes an optional programmable RGB lighting package for customizable interior color choices. Trim packages in Preferred-Spec, High-Spec and Custom-Spec coordinate with Blues, Lounge and Tech seating options, and upgrades are available to parcel rack doors and flooring in wood-grain and carbon fiber selections. A new air intake system, and a new driver dash with a highdefinition instrument panel, are advancements operators will also appreciate. Motor Coach Industries; 200 East Oakton St., Des Plaines, IL 60018; 847-285-2000; 800-428-7626; Fax: 847-285-2013 • Email: marketing@mcicoach.com; Website: www.mcicoach.com
Model ...............................................................................................MCI® J4500 Length.....................................................................................................45.58 ft. Height ....................................................................................................140.75 in. GVWR ..................................................................................................54,000 lbs. Wheelbase............................................................................................315.00 in. Passengers............................................................................................Up to 60 Headroom ..............................................................................................78.25 in. Fuel Capacity ..........................................................................................183 gal. DEF Tank Capacity ...................................................................................15 gal. Fuel Options...................................................................................Clean Diesel Transmission.................Allison B500 6-speed automatic transmission with prognostics capability Engine ...................... Cummins ISX 12L, 425 hp engine w/engine brake; optional Detroit Diesel 410 or 450 hp engine w/engine brake Brakes....................................................Bendix® ADB22X™ Air Disc Brakes
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Nova Bus
Alexander Dennis Inc
Enviro500
LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) Based on the proven performance of the LFS platform, the LFS HEV® (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) upgrades its already advanced fuel-efficient engineering by adding a powerful, ultra-low emissions hybrid drive to cut fuel and maintenance costs. Given optimal operating conditions, the LFS HEV offers up to 30 percent reduction in fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional diesel-powered buses. Other benefits include a significant reduction in noise levels, particularly at the rear of the vehicle and outside. Nova Bus offers two different types of hybrid systems: parallel and series. In both parallel and series vehicles, braking energy normally lost as heat is recuperated through a generator and stored in the rooftop batteries. That’s why hybrid technologies are best suited for frequent stopand-go conditions. Also available, the high-capacity LFS Artic HEV is an attractive alternative for growing cities focused on sustainable development. Starts and stops are smooth and the ride is stable, even in snowy conditions; the end result is a more enjoyable passenger experience. Developing vehicles to help cities meet their sustainability objectives is part of Nova Bus’ vision to be the leader in green efficiency and Electro Mobility.
Nova Bus: 260 Banker Road, Plattsburgh, NY 12901 518-566-6682 • Fax: 518-957-2002 Email: novabus.sales@volvo.com Website: www.novabus.com Model .......................................................................................................LFS HEV Seating Capacity...................................................................................up to 41 Length...............................................................................................................40’ Width ...............................................................................................................102” Height..............................................................................................................132” Engine .....................................................................Cummins ISB 6.7 280 HP, Cummins ISL 8.9 330 HP Traction Drive.................................................Allison H 40 EP, BAE HDS200 Chassis .......................................................................Stainless Steel Integral Fuel ...............................................................................Diesel-electric Hybrid Air Conditioning................................................Thermo King Athenia, MCC Wheelchair Lift Option..............................................................Lift-U, Fedico Steering .............................................................................................TRW TAS85 Suspenion..........................................................................................................ZF
Designed exclusively to meet the requirements of the North American market, and with various interior specifications, the Enviro500 is the world’s best-selling 3-axle double-deck bus. Offering the unique combination of high capacity and comfort for transit and interurban journeys, Enviro500 is the ideal solution for carrying large numbers of passengers, while occupying a smaller road space. Low-floor and easy-to-access, the Enviro500 is constructed on a steel chassis with a lightweight aluminum body structure, making it more fuel efficient with industry-leading reliability, lowest cost-ofownership and best-in-class aftermarket support. With stunning street presence, it occupies the same footprint as a conventional single-deck bus, is “Buy America” compliant and Altoona-tested and, due to its low height, can operate with ease across the USA and Canada.
Alexander Dennis Inc 31566 Railroad Canyon Road #342 Canyon Lake, CA 92587-9446 USA Tel: 951-244-9429 Fax: 951-755-0318 Website: www.alexander-dennis.com Model ...................................................................................................Enviro500 Seating Capacity......................................................................Up to 86 seats Length ..........................................................................42 ft., 5 in. (12931 mm) Width ...............................................................................8 ft., 3 in. (2520 mm) Height..............................................................................13 ft., 6 in. (4115 mm) Engine...................................Cummins ISL9 EPA2017 six-cylinder 380 HP Type of Fuel ...............................................................................................Diesel Chassis ........................................................................................ADI Enviro500 Air Conditioning ..........................................................................Thermo King Wheelchair Lift Option ......................................................................Ricon 1:6 Steering .............................................................................................................ZF September/October 2017
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Prevost
Glaval Bus
Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Glaval Legacy The iconic Prevost X3-45® sets a higher standard for a unique and upscale intercity commuter coach. The X3-45 Commuter™ provides a smooth, quiet ride for a relaxing commuting environment. Designed to provide quality, performance, and safety. Buy America compliant, Exova certified for structural integrity and Altoona tested for superior product value and lifecycle efficiency, the X3-45 Commuter coach offers proven performance for the nation’s most demanding commuter routes. Developed with a focus on transit operation concerns such as passenger safety, accessibility, low operation costs and ease of maintenance, the vehicle offers the lowest overall height in the premium intercity coach market; while maintaining a best-in-class floor-to-ceiling height of 80 inches. A rider’s commute is remarkably smooth and comfortable thanks to the longest wheelbase in the industry, while accessibility is enhanced by the revolutionary Swap & Plug Wheelchair Lift system, front kneeling suspension, and bi-fold doors that open to a short stairway in the expansive entrance. The Prevost X3-45 Commuter includes three-point seat belts on a 20G rated welded rail system for an exceptionally secure passenger environment. Additionally, the coach can be outfitted with a WiFi system, state-of-the-art sound and video, and electrical outlets at each seat to keep passengers plugged in and in touch while commuting.
Prevost: 7900 National Service Rd., Greensboro, NC 27409 Tel: 877-773-8678 Email: prevostcar@volvo.com Website: www.prevostcar.com
Model.......................................................................Prevost X3-45 Commuter Coach Seating Capacity ..........................................................................................................57 Length ............................................................................................................................45’ Width.............................................................................................................................102” Height...........................................................................................................................134” Wheelbase...............................................................................................................334.5” Overhang (front/rear) ..........................................................................72.30”; 86.60” Inside Height (min./max.).......................................................Floor to ceiling - 80” Turning Radius..........................................................................................................45.6’ Tire Size.......................................................................................................315/80 R22.5 Engine .............................EPA Compliant Volvo D13 w/DPF and SCR, 445 HP, 13L Transmission..................................Allison World, 5th gen., 6-speed auto. trans. Brakes..........................................................................................All-Wheel disc. w/ABS Fuel Tank Capacity .....................................................................................183 U.S. gal. Air Conditioning .......................................................................................Bitzer 4FNCY Baggage Capacity...........................................................................................513 cu. ft. Wheelchair Lift Option ............................................Interchangeable swap & plug Steering.............Steering wheel w/integrated controls, tilt & telescopic, and integral power steering, (variable assistance power steering available) Suspension..........................Wide-stance tuned suspension w/liftable tag axle
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The Legacy is built on the heavy-duty Freightliner S2C chassis and powered by the proven Cummins 6.7L ISB diesel engine and Allison transmission. Built with rear air-ride suspension, the Legacy is sure to impress with stylish beauty, outstanding ride quality and rugged durability. Whether looking for first-class transportation or even public shuttle service, the Legacy is just the answer. The Legacy can seat up to 45 passengers and is available with a wide variety of ADAcompliant paratransit options. Also available with rear luggage, overhead and under floor storage, the Legacy has the versatility to fit all transportation needs. Now also available in 42-foot length. Glaval Bus 914 CR #1 North Elkhart, IN 46514 800-445-2825 Website: www.glavalbus.com
Model ............................................................................................Glaval Legacy Seating Capacity ....................................................................................45 Max Length........................................................................32’, 35’, 37’, 40’ and 42’ Width...............................................................................................96” and 102” Height..............................................................................................................129” Engine..............................................................................Cummins 6.7L Diesel Transmission ...............................Allison 2200 PTS w/Park Pawl 5-Speed Chassis.....................................................................................Freightliner S2C Air Conditioning ..............................Carrier/Mcc, ACC, Trans Air and ACT Wheelchair Option.................................................Accommodates up to 14 Steering ......................................................................................Tilt/Telescopic Suspension ........................................................Front Spring, Rear Air Ride
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Lancaster, CA’s, Antelope Valley Receives Clean Air Quality Award “The Antelope Valley Transit Authority (AVTA) was the 2017 recipient of the California Air Quality Leadership in Government Award. It was recognized for outstanding contributions to California’s clean air future. AVTA was honored for the conversion of Antelope Valley’s entire fleet to electric buses,” according to a press release. AVTA Board Chairman Marvin Christ said, “By fulfilling our goal of conversion to an all-electric fleet, we are not only making a significant contribution to preserving air quality, but executing a sound financial decision for AVTA. It is truly a win-win situation for the state of California and the community we serve.” The award was presented by the Coalition for Clean Air (CCA), California’s only statewide organization working exclusively on air quality issues. “The coalition began in 1971. It served as the brainchild of California’s original Smog Check program and has been instrumental in helping pass legislation to put 1 million electric vehicles on California’s roads by 2025.” AVTA provides local, commuter and Dial-A-Ride service to a population of more than 450,000 residents in the cities of Lancaster and Palmdale as well as the unincorporated portions of northern Los Angeles County.
ABC Companies Donates Tug To Museum Of Bus Transportation During this year’s Museum of Bus Transportation’s Spring Fling, ABC Companies Senior Vice President, Mike Laffan, presented John Oakman, the museum’s fleet committee chairman, with a fully refurbished 2004 Stewart Stevens Tug (with an air compressor) for use in moving and maintaining the museum’s vehicles,” according to a press release. Last year, the Cornell family and ABC donated a restored 1956 Scenicruiser, and have committed to lend its 1921 White Motor Co. “Little Red” bus for display in the near future.
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Bus Drivers & Tour Guides Eat free! John Oakman, of the Museum of Bus Transportation, is pictured sitting in the refurbished “Tug” donated by ABC Companies, which is next to the bus used in the making of the movie, Forest Gump.
“The Cornell family has donated buses, and restored coaches in their facilities, as well as given money and expertise to the museum. The museum and the coach industry are in their debt forever,” said the museum’s Fleet Committee Chairman, John Oakman. Roman Cornell, ABC executive vice president and CCO, said on behalf of the Cornell family, “History is interesting and an important part of our lives. It's fun to look back and see where we came from. ABC is fortunate to be in a position to donate to this wonderful museum and preserve the industry that has done so much for our family.” For additional information, visit www.abc-companies.com.
Mini-Mall — 2 Stores with over 5,000 sq. ft. of shopping!
ATM, Major Credit Cards accepted. I-39 & Hwy 38, Exit 99 Rochelle, IL
OPEN 24 HOURS
Please call ahead! September/October 2017
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Avail Tech, Inc. 1960 Old Gatesburg Rd., Suite 200 State College, PA 16803 USA Phone: 814-234-3394 Website: www.availtec.com Products: A fully integrated suite of products, designed to meet the specific needs of small- to medium-sized transit properties. Availâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s offerings include automatic passenger counters and fare collection products. 14
Cubic Transportation Systems 5650 Kearny Mesa Rd. San Diego, CA 92111 USA Phone: 858-627-4587 Website: www.cts.cubic.com. Products: An integrator of payment and information technology and services for intelligent travel solutions. Turnkey solutions support all public transport modes including bus and bus rapid transit. 14 Diamond Manufacturing Inc.
Brush Industries 301 Reagan St. Sunbury, PA 17801 USA Phone: 570-286-5611 Website: www.brushindustries.com Products: Long life magnetic recording heads and card readers for the smart card and magnetic stripe card industries. 14
THE DIAMOND FAMILY
See Ad On Below Left 2330 Burlington St. N. Kansas City, MO 64116 USA Toll Free: 800-343-1009 Email: todcull@aol.com Website: www.diamondmfg.com Company Officers: Todd and Pam Cull Products: Diamond Manufacturing offers a line of fare collection equipment to the transit industry. It supplies traditional, manual fare boxes, donation boxes and a fare box with a remote fare dump option. Diamondâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s traditional fare boxes are the round units (Models H, E-5, D), which are designed to accept coins, tokens and tickets; and, rectangular units (Models RV, SV, XV, NV), which are designed to accept dollar bills, coins, tokens, tickets, passes and similar fare media. Donation boxes come in three sizes to fit most applications. These units can be mounted in a variety of ways: on the modesty panel or stanchion pole in either a vertical or horizontal position. Models F-1 and F-24 remote dump fare boxes can be mounted away from the driver with a push button dump feature. These models can be paired with smart card readers. 17
Electronic Data Magnetics, Inc. 210 Old Thomasville Rd. High Point, NC 27260 USA Phone: 800-336-8115 Email: contactus@electronicdata.com Website: www.electronicdata.com Products: RFID and Magnetic Striped products on thin gauge paper and plastics. EDM provides both high and low coercivity magnetic stripe cards and tickets, while offering encoding services. 14 Evolis Card Printers 3201 W. Commercial Blvd., Suite 110 Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309 USA Phone: 954-777-9262 Website: www.evolis.com Products: Fare products for public transportation companies and agencies to better control their revenues. Products help optimize efficiency. 14
Serving The Industry Since 1947 Made in the U.S.A.
diamondmfg.com 800-343-1009 816-421-8363 See us At APTA Booth #7208 Page 70
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INIT, Innovations In Transportation, Inc. 1420 Kristina Way, Suite 101 Chesapeake, VA 23320 USA Phone: 757-413-9100 Website: www.initusa.com Products: MOBILEticket is a smart phone application that helps transit authorities connect with their riders, reduce operating costs, and move into the future of open payment systems. With MOBILEticket, riders can buy and use their public transit passes from their mobile phones. 14
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LECIP Inc. 1011 East Touhy Ave., Suite 140 Des Plaines, IL 60018 USA Phone: 312-626-2528 Website: www.lecip.com Products: Automated fare collection systems including fareboxes, smart card systems, transfer voucher issuance machines and digital fare displays. 14 MEI, Inc. 3222 Phoenixville Pike, Suite 200 Malvern, PA 19355 USA Phone: 610-203-6587 Website: www.meigroup.com Products: MEI is a manufacturer of electronic note acceptors, coin mechanisms and other unattended transaction systems. Today, MEI electronic payment systems are relied upon for over 2 billion transactions per week in more than 100 countries. 14 MJM Innovations 6300 Blair Hill Ln., Suite 301 Baltimore, MD 21209 USA 866-664-1277 Email: info@mjminnovations.com Website: www.mjminnovations.com Products: MJM Innovations was established in 1998 to provide technology solutions and management services to transit and senior agencies. The EzTransportÂŽ fare collection, routing/scheduling and participant management solution is used by agencies to manage trips and fares for transportation programs throughout the country. 16
Scheidt & Bachmann USA, Inc. 31 North Ave. Burlington, MA 01803 USA Phone: 781-262-6655
TRANSPORTATION
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Website: www.scheidt-bachmann.de Products: The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fare collection systems division is a global supplier in fare collection technology. It has been providing local and regional transit solutions since 1978. All products and services appear under the brand FareGo. 14 SPX Genfare 800 Arthur Ave. Elk Grove Village, IL 60007 USA Phone: 847-593-8855 Website: www.genfare.com Products: SPX Genfare provides customized fare solutions to transit agencies of all sizes throughout North America. Genfare integrated systems encompass the latest in electronic validating fareboxes, smart card and mobile payment options, ticket vending and point-of-sale card distribution systems. These are all managed by sophisticated local and web-based data processing systems. 15 TransitFare & Systems 125 Don Hillock Dr., Unit 2 Aurora, ON L4G 0H8 CANADA Phone: 416-993-2503 Email: info@transitfare.com Website: www.transitfare.com Products: A developer of integrated fare management solutions for small to medium sized transit operators. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s solutions integrate fare management, ticket issuing and validation, revenue management, and financial and ridership reporting. The TFS1200B is an onboard ticket issuing device. It is a key component of an integrated fare management solution. TransitFare & Systemsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; officials work with public and private transit operators in the North American, South American, African, Asian and European markets. 14
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New Orders For ARBOC Ozark Regional Transit, Austin Airport, and Guelph, ON, Canada, all placed substantial orders with ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, LLC, of Middlebury, IN, in June.
Pictured left to right are, Dorothy Claw, Kim Yoder of ARBOC Specialty Vehicles, Governor Montoya and Gary Guinn of Creative Bus Sales.
ARBOC Delivers First Of Its New Model Creative Bus Sales (CBS) in Albuquerque, NM, initiated the sale of ARBOC Specialty Vehicle’s first Spirit of Independence model, built on a Ford Transit chassis. Kim Yoder, national sales manager of ARBOC in Middlebury, IN, travelled to the Pueblo of Santa Ana, NM, for the unveiling of the new product. Creative Bus Sales offers a national sales,
service, and customer support network. “As the top ARBOC distributor in the nation, CBS was eager to sell the new product. The people from Pueblo of Santa Ana, knew exactly what they wanted, an ADA accessible small bus with a ramp and no lift. We were lucky that ARBOC had just created the exact vehicle they wanted,” said Gary Guinn, of Creative Bus Sales.”
APTA Expo 2017 08–11 Oct Atlanta, GA, U.S. Booth 1823
The contracts were directed by Creative Bus Sales, with locations nationwide, and Creative Carriage, which covers the Ontario, Canada, sales territory. Ozark Regional Transit is located in Springdale, AZ. It is a new customer of ARBOC. Austin Airport, of Austin, TX, began its partnership with ARBOC in 2015, by placing its initial order for ARBOC’s Spirit of Freedom model through Creative Bus Sales’ in its Irving, TX, location. Austin Airport placed subsequent orders in 2016 and now in 2017. Located in Ontario, Canada, the city of Guelph has been a client of the company since 2011. Guelph has a growing fleet, of which 15 are now ARBOCs, built on the GM 4500 chassis. Founded in 2008, ARBOC Specialty Vehicles LLC, offers low-floor technology. It has four key product offerings, the Spirit of Mobility, Spirit of Freedom, Spirit of Independence and Spirit of Liberty. Visit www.ARBOCsv.com. ___________________________________ John Bailey, Bailey Coach, York, PA
Small-Business Owners Go To White House With Tax Reform Message
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See us At APTA Booth #1823 Page 72
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Four Pennsylvania small-business owners went to the White House in early August and old the administration that tax reform must include small businesses. They said that no small business should pay a higher tax rate than large corporations. President Trump met with about 40 smallbusiness owners from around the country. Four Pennsylvania members of the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) attended, including John Bailey, owner of Bailey Coach in York, PA. Bailey said, “Such pro-business support in Washington D.C. is promising, and I left the meeting believing they want to help make us successful.”
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MTS Bus Operations Wins National Award For Pedestrian Safety Pedestrian-related accidents reduced to zero after awareness program implemented
Pictured from left to right are, Paul Jablonski, MTS chief executive officer; Bill Spraul, MTS Bus chief operating officer; Jared Garcia, MTS Bus manager of safety; Tony Beaver, MTS Bus manager of service operations; and Amanda Denham, manager of support services.
The San Diego Metropolitan Transit System (MTS) earned the top safety award from the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) for its successful Pause, Focus, Look campaign that reduced pedestrian-related preventable bus accidents to zero. This is the second bus safety award MTS has won in the last three years. “Being recognized with awards is nice, but results are even better,” said Paul Jablonski, MTS chief executive officer. “Eliminating pedestrian-related accidents is an exceptional success. MTS bus operators should be proud of this accomplishment, as should our training department. They identified the challenges, developed a thorough training program, worked with union leadership and educated all 544 of our drivers. It’s this type of effort that led to this outstanding result.” MTS said, “The campaign involved MTS’ in-house bus operations team comprised of 285 buses, and more than 750 employees who provide service for 28.5 million annual passenger trips. From 2013 through March 2016, MTS Bus had experienced 10 preventable accidents involving pedestrians. While not alarming by industry standards, it was not an acceptable number by MTS safety standards. “The campaign strategically linked driver behavior, vehicle equipment, and an integration of available technology to eliminate pedestrian accidents. With its full implementation, there were zero additional pedestrian accidents in the final nine months of 2016.”
MTS said the key elements to the campaign included: • Supervisors and managers, and signage placed in high pedestrian activity locations throughout the system to keep pedestrians top-of-mind for bus operators; • A ‘no left turn on red’ policy was instituted for one-way streets; • Replaced elongated side-view mirrors on buses to reduce the previously compromised view of pedestrians; • Modified monthly and annual trainings focused on pedestrian awareness and accident prevention; • Targeted campaign branding for bus operators to be consistently reminded of pedestrian safety; • Conducted a comprehensive assessment of internal lighting for all buses and adjusted settings to reduce windshield glare and improve visibility of pedestrians; • Identified high priority intersections from previous pedestrian accidents and used bus camera systems to randomly audit turns, enabling potentially unsafe actions to be proactively addressed; • Showed video clip loops from actual pedestrian accidents on break room monitors to provide real-life context for bus operators; and, • Voice and text messages were routinely sent to bus operators throughout the day using the onboard communications system. For more information, visit www.sdmts.com. See us At APTA Booth #3679 September/October 2017
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ABQ RIDE Hosts Indianapolis Transit To Exchange Ideas On Bus Rapid Transit IndyGo’s BRT Project Similar To Albuquerque Rapid Transit (ART) “In 2012, when Albuquerque, NM, was exploring the idea of operating a bus rapid transit system, its officials visited Cleveland, OH, to ride and observe that city’s ‘HealthLine’ Bus Rapid Transit system. Now that Albuquerque is building its BRT, named Albuquerque Rapid Transit, it is getting visits from other municipalities around the country interested in building BRT systems. “That’s why three representatives of IndyGo (the brand name of the Indianapolis Public Transportation Corporation) came to Albuquerque recently to see what the building of Albuquerque Rapid Transit has entailed, and how lessons learned in Albuquerque might apply to IndyGo’s Red Line Bus Rapid Transit Project. Justin Stuehrenberg, project manager for the IndyGo Red Line, John Marron, Red Line’s
deputy project manager and Kevin Campbell, manager for HNTB (the Red Line contractor) toured Albuquerque’s ART project. Their two days were spent touring the construction corridor, meeting with Albuquerque mayor, Richard J. Berry, attending project construction meetings for different segments of the corridor, attending the weekly ART Public Outreach meeting as well as meetings about startup plans, training, operations and maintenance.
Stuehrenberg said, “IndyGo chose to visit Albuquerque because this rapid project is very similar to the one we’re starting (construction) on. The center dedicated lanes, raised platform stations and relatively narrow streets are par of a very similar project, and we wanted to take advantage of lessons learned.” Both have committed to using electric buses for routes, serving some high-density commercial areas. Both systems will also run part of their routes in non-dedicated lanes toward the end of the route, as well as through a mix of high and low-density areas. According to an August press release from IndyGo, “The IndyGo Red Line Bus Rapid Transit will run for 35 miles from Carmel to Greenwood, stopping every half mile, with a new bus arriving every 10 minutes.” In August 2017, IndyGo released the construction bid packages for its Red Line Rapid Transit project. The IndyGo board of directors anticipates awarding the final bid(s) in December, with construction groundbreaking in January 2018. The Red Line is planned to open for service in spring 2019.
BATA Celebrates Five Years Of Seasonal Bike-n-Ride Service The Bay Area Transportation Authority (BATA), Traverse City, MI, is celebrating the fifth anniversary of its successful Bike-n-Ride program. This years’ service started in May and runs until October 22. According to a press release, “Since Biken-Ride’s inception five years ago, it has transported more than 5,799 bikes, and is one of only a handful of similar programs in the country.” According to the Michigan Department of Transportation’s 2015 Community and Economic Benefits of Bicycling in Michigan study, BATA’s Bike-n-Ride ridership has provided an estimated $360,000 positive economic impact to Grand Traverse and Leelanau Counties. Riders can enjoy two routes and trails. Regular fare is $3 per person, bikes ride free and reduced fare is available for qualified riders. “With more than 120 employees, BATA provides more than half a million annual rides to residents and visitors in Leelanau and Grand Traverse counties. The transit authority offers Loop service with dedicated routes and fixed stops, as well as Link service that functions as a traditional Dial-A-Ride. In addition, BATA has introduced programs like Bike-nRide, Ski-n-Ride, and various event shuttles.” Visit bata.net for more information.
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ADVERTORIAL
Made By Camira To Keep Bus, Motorcoach And Rail Interiors On Track Design, comfort and performance are fundamental elements when it comes to designing bus, motorcoach and passenger rail interiors and creating a memorable travel experience. Design creates an identity, whereas comfort and performance ensure passenger well-being and safety. Camira designs and weaves plush fabrics and flat-woven fabrics for bus, coach and rail seating and accent trim, to the highest standards of durability and safety. With a full range of capabilities, Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in-house design team can develop more custom fabrics, adding personality, branding and flair to any vehicle interior. Exhibiting at the APTA EXPO, in Atlanta, GA, on October 9-11, Camira will have a range of bus and coach fabrics on display, including plush, flat-woven, leather and vinyl collections. Vision Vision is a new, flat-woven fabric which uses lightly textured surfaces, small pattern repeats and geometricbased designs to form the structure of this modern fabric for motorcoach interiors. The dark background color enhances the delicate use of metallic highlights to create striking color effects under moving light. A stunning combination of contrasting fiber types, polished and matt, create added interest and a tactile finish. Aura Twist Aura Twist is a wool rich plush fabric, reviving a textile classic which is re-interpreted into modern, geometric inspired designs on a darker background, with carefully selected accent colorways. The distinctive designs combine linear, architectural and structural patterning in a variety of scales, with the highlight colors coordinating with other complementary finishes in Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leather, vinyl and flat woven ranges. Aura Classic Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best-selling Aura collection, now renamed the Aura Classic collection, has been streamlined to 14 iconic designs. Patterns range from organic orbital swirls to layered geometrics, some incorporating a highlight speciality crinkle yarn which creates added texture and depth to the fabric. Vinyl, Leather And Trim Coordinating trims for Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fabrics are available for piping, headrests, wall side and ceiling finishes, and curtaining to provide flexible options for those combination seats using more than one material type. Options include high performance FR vinyl, Vita, Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leather range Classic, Lucia FR, Micro Trim, Premier Trim and Super Trim. Camiraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s upholstery products comply with performance standards for durability, flame, smoke and toxicity, and carry a five-year warranty. Visit Camira at APTA booth 6923, on October 9-11, to see the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s full range of capabilities. For more information, visit www.camirafabrics.com.
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See us At APTA Booth #6923 September/October 2017
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APTA Recognizes Public Transportation Sustainability Accomplishments The American Public Transportation Association (APTA) recognized eight of its member organizations for continued achievements in sustainability. Public transit agencies and businesses voluntarily choose to join the APTA Sustainability Commitment program and pledge to implement
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processes and actions that create continuous improvements in environmental, social, and economic sustainability. Based on specific measurable achievements, organizations are given Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze Level recognition. Amtrak (Washington, DC) and the TRC Companies (Lowell, MA) are this year’s recipients of Gold Level recognition. The four Silver Level recipients are Jacksonville Transportation Authority (Jacksonville, FL), Regional Transportation Commission of Washoe County (Reno, NV), HDR (Omaha, NE), and Louis Berger (Washington, DC). The two Bronze Level recipients are Transit Authority of River City (Louisville, KY), and Wendel (Williamsville, NY). First started in 2009, 133 public transit agencies and businesses have signed on to the APTA Sustainability Commitment. Currently, 38 signatories have received recognition. “Saving our environment while using new and sustainable business practices, sets public transportation up for a bright future,” APTA Acting President & CEO Richard White said. “Congratulations to these eight public transportation leaders who are on the leading edge of sustainability advances. The blueprint they are creating will be used by many in the future.” Below, APTA offers examples of the sustainable accomplishments that this year’s recipients have achieved: n GOLD Level - Amtrak, of Washington, D.C. — Amtrak realized reductions in electrical consumption at facilities through energy efficiency lighting projects, automated building controls and facility-based energy plans. Sustainability initiatives include adopting green building codes and standards, such as the International Green Construction Code (IgCC), and obtaining LEED certifications for stations. The corporation implemented a Waste Minimization Pilot Program at one of its facilities that will help Amtrak replicate findings across all facilities toward a waste reduction goal of 20 percent by 2020. Amtrak has expanded connectivity options for customers to travel to and from the stations on their bikes with equipment upgrades on a growing number of services. Amtrak was a founding signatory of the APTA Sustainability Commitment in 2009, and received Bronze Level recognition in 2013. n GOLD Level - TRC Companies, of Lowell, MA — TRC advanced to Gold Level recognition. Against baselines set in 2014, TRC achieved a 16 percent reduction in electricity usage per employee; 2 percent reduction in natural gas usage per employee; 9 percent reduction in Scope 1 and 2 emissions per employee; 19 percent reduction in paper usage from FY15 to FY16 per dollar of revenue; and 95 percent of offices recycling at least one waste stream. The company implemented a Health and Safety Management System aligned with OHSA’s 18001; a corporate-wide Sustainability Coordinator Network; and a corporate-wide community engagement initiative centered on Earth Day. Additionally, TRC’s services to the public transit industry have reduced greenhouse gases, minimized water use, developed green construction policies, advanced environmental management systems and identified energy efficiency opportunities. n SILVER Level - Jacksonville Transportation Authority (JTA), of Jacksonville, FL — JTA invested significantly in LED lighting at its facilities, helping the agency realize reductions of energy use by 13.4 percent at facilities. The agency also has installed bioremediating parts washers to detoxify runoff prior to disposal, helping protect sensitive ecosystem surrounding the city. Additionally, the agency installed electric vehicle charging
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stations inside its public parking garages, helping encourage greater shifts regionally to more sustainable modes of transportation. n SILVER Level - Regional Transportation Commission (RTC) Washoe County, of Reno, NV â&#x20AC;&#x201D; RTC Washoe has worked to improve the overall sustainability of the agency through a variety of initiatives. In 2014, the RTC replaced four older model diesel buses with fully electric model buses, and has plans to add up to 15 more in the coming years. RTC also constructed two LEED certified major transit stations in downtown Reno and Sparks, NV, which include low-flow water infrastructure, energy efficient lighting and a solar PV array. Additionally, the RTC is continuing to work to retrofit existing buildings with more energy efficient LED lighting, solar arrays and low-flow water fixtures. The combination of all RTC efforts resulted in a 32.3 percent reduction in facility energy use per Unlinked Passenger Trip from 2010 to 2016. RTC has demonstrated a commitment to sustainability that will benefit agency operations and the community it serves. n SILVER Level - HDR, of Omaha, NE â&#x20AC;&#x201D; The company, which has a comprehensive Sustainability Policy and Procedures document and a Waste Prevention and Recycling Standard, demonstrated adherence to APTAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s core sustainability principles at the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s headquarters and North American office locations. With more than 750 sustainability professionals â&#x20AC;&#x201D; 525 LEED Aps, 215 ENV SPs, and 12 Greenroads STPs â&#x20AC;&#x201D; HDR currently has 135 LEED certified projects, eight Envision projects, and one Greenroads pilot project in its portfolio. The organization has committed to achieving additional action items and reduction targets for HDRâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s carbon footprint and waste generation goals. This includes: increasing Green Team engagement and percentage of employees who participate; continuing to improve processes and resources for reducing waste through reuse, recycling, and composting; and encouraging alternative commuting.
n SILVER Level - Louis Berger, of Washington, D.C. â&#x20AC;&#x201D;The company recently adopted a Sustainability Vision and Policy that guides Louis Berger's commitment to fostering sustainability within its operations, work and communities. Louis Berger has enhanced its services with the certification of more than 130 Envision Sustainability Professionals (ENV SPs). Louis Berger regularly engages employees around sustainability through initiatives such as the Reduce Your Foodprint office competition, which challenged employees to take simple actions to reduce the impact of their food choices. The company also partnered with Direct Energy Solar to offer employees a discount on the purchase of a residential solar system. n BRONZE Level - Transit Authority of River City, of Louisville, KY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; At Louisvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic Union Station, TARC invested in energy efficiency improvements that resulted in a 35 percent reduction of consumption. It also built a LEED Gold-certified training center, featuring a graywater system for non-potable uses, a green roof, and 4kW solar PV array on the facility. TARC collaborates with many organizational partners to provide free or greatly reduced transportation to employment and educational programs. The agency is the first in the Midwest to introduce electric battery bus technology to its community. TARC was a founding signatory of the APTA Sustainability Commitment in 2009, and was previously an Entry-level member. n BRONZE Level - Wendel, of Williamsville, NY â&#x20AC;&#x201D; As part of Wendelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2020 Strategic Plan, a Stewards of Environment leadership group has been established to help drive forward the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sustainability goals. The company established metrics to measure environmental, social, and economic impacts for both internal operations as well as project development. Wendel has achieved a reduction in energy and water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and increased the percentage of material being diverted from landfills. Additionally, Wendel achieved LEED certification for commercial interiors. Visit www.apta.com.
The MotorCoach Tower Washâ&#x201E;˘ $! + 0+. + $ $ + +3!.Ĺ? /$Ä´Ĺ?/5/0!)Ĺ?$ /Ĺ? !!* 0$ $!Ĺ? %* 1/00.5Ĺ?(! !. %* %*Ĺ?" /0Ĺ? * Ĺ?! +*+)% (Ĺ? 1/Ĺ?3 /$%*#Ĺ?"+ +.Ĺ? 25 yea years rsÄ&#x2039;Ĺ? Ä&#x2039;Ĺ? ! ! 1 ! 1 5+1.Ĺ? +/0/Ĺ?+*Ĺ?) *,+3!.Ä&#x152;Ĺ?3 0!.Ĺ? * Ĺ? / ,Ä&#x2039;Ĺ? /+ , ( ((Ĺ?1/Ĺ?00+ 5Ĺ?0+Ĺ?(! .*Ĺ?)+.!Ä&#x201C;
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THE FASTEST, MOST ECONOMICAL AND CONVENIENT WAY TO WASH ANY VEHICLE
AdID: 796210
PublicationID: UMA-R0015
September/October 2017
BUSLINE
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ADVERTORIAL
From Bitimec: The Wash-Bots Line Of Bus Washers
Next Generation Bus Wash On Wheels Bitimec's next-generation Wash-Bots line of portable single-brush bus washers, provide affordable bus washing solutions with reimagined functionality and new winning features. Thirty years in the making, these mobile high-tech machines are so simple to use, a grade schooler can wash a full size bus in 6-8 minutes. Hurdles are anticipated and averted by layers of clever features, crafted into every machine; nozzle cutoff valves to wash smaller
vehicles, “brush only” inclination to better reach bus contours, and auto-water refill shut off to work uninterruptedly, just to name a few. The full Wash-Bots line has electric, battery, diesel and even a hybrid powered model, ranging from $18,900 to $45,000 installed. The electric Model 101-BB is ideal for fixed washbays, plugged-in to the building's water and electricity, with the hose and electric cord installed on a trolley (festoon line) overhead and out of the way. Portable models running on battery or diesel power are totally self-contained bus wash machines with push button everything. Self-traction, soap, brush, and rinse water all available at the touch of a button. A hybrid “ride-on'” model tops the line, able to wash on quiet battery
power or on diesel power. Seeing Wash-Bots’ high tech simplicity at work never fails to “WOW” first timers. Every model delivers immediate ROI, by allowing a single operator to do exterior washing as fast as a 4-5 person-strong wash crew. The operator simply walks (or rides) the power Wash-Bots around the vehicles, as he/she applies soap, rinse-water and power-brush, all at the touch of a button. The small footprint machines do not need a dedicated building because they can be tucked out of the way when not in use. For more information, contact info@wash-bots.com.
New Carrollton, MD at Valley Mall Featuring fresh burgers, hand cut fries, hot dogs, flatbread pizzas, homemade meat loaf & much more. Large screenTVs. Great food @ reasonable prices.
Featuring $10 Breakfast Special 2 eggs, 2 bacon or sausages & 2 of our famous buttermilk pancakes, coffee , tea or small juice included. Available every day from 6 am – 9 am & 3 pm – 10 pm.
Ask about our $10 to go lunch box. Tour guides & bus drivers with your groups, eat for free. We also offer a $10 lunch box to-go with 24 hr. advance notice.
Open Daily 11am-11pm 1 mile off I-81 exit 247 Elkton @ Valley Mall front entrance 1925 East Market Street, Harrisonburg, VA
ph 540 438 5600 or email tony or jim @t JTROUT3262@AOL.COM Page 78
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(Please contact us 24 in advance to receive this offer)
Discounts available off our regular menu for large groups. Please call Jim or Chris @ 540-435-1676 or 443-392-7699 or email us JTROUT3262@AOL.COM IHOP conveniently located half mile off 495 beltway exit 20 east behind Metro Points Hotel
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W H E R E I N N OVAT I O N A N D T E C H N O LO GY
Join Industry Leaders Accelerating the Future of Public Transportation. APTA’s EXPO 2017, the world’s largest public transportation event, is headed to Atlanta, Georgia with all you need to succeed in today’s competitive market. Increase your technical and industry knowledge with free show floor education, meet 800+ global exhibitors, and network with 12,000+ peers to discover real, innovative solutions. Registration is free. APTA’s EXPO is where innovation and technology converge to accelerate public transportation and every aspect of your organization. IT’S ONLY ONCE EVERY THREE YEARS. REGISTER NOW FOR FREE. Use the VIP code when registering to be eligible to win fabulous prizes! VIP CODE: BLP17
EXPO: October 9-11, 2017 Annual Meeting: October 8-11, 2017 Georgia World Congress Center | Atlanta, GA, USA
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Charlotte, NCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CATS Hosts Middle School Students To Create Interest In STEM Careers â&#x20AC;&#x153;Charlotte, NCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Area Transit System recently hosted 25 middle school students from the Elizabeth City area of North Carolina to tour the system, talk to transit professionals and inspire the next generation toward careers in STEM via transportation,â&#x20AC;? according to a press release. The event was part of a summer program through Elizabeth City State University that was partially funded by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The tour started with riding the LYNX Blue Line light rail system, then touring the vehicle maintenance facility led by CATSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Director of Rail Operations, Allen Smith III. Smith spoke with students about the several different variations of engineering needed to operate, maintain and manage a rail system. Following the tour of the rail facilities, students learned about bus operations and maintenance, with a tour led by Assistant
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See us At APTA Booth #6721 Page 80
BUSLINE
September/October 2017
General Manager of Bus Operations, Reggie Arrington. Arrington also spoke to students about apprenticeships with CATS Bus Operations. Students rode CATS bus services to the Charlotte Government Center, where they met with CEO John Lewis, who encouraged students to keep their minds open to different career options. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Growing up, I always thought I was going to be a lawyer, then one day while working on Capitol Hill, I fell in love with infrastructure and transit, and began pursuing those dreams,â&#x20AC;? Lewis told the group. â&#x20AC;&#x153;CATS is a department of the city of Charlotte, and is governed by the Metropolitan Transit Commission. CATS is the largest transit system between Washington, D.C. and Atlanta offering bus, rail, streetcar, vanpool and special transportation services,â&#x20AC;? according to a press release.
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2017 APTA EXPO
Visit Busline at APTA EXPO
OCT. 9 - OCT. 11 • ATLANTA, GA
BOOTH # 3906
EXPO hours are as follows: • 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Monday, October 9; • 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, October 10; and, • 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesday, October 11.
Company
Website
Page #
ABC Companies www.abc-companies.com Access Commercial Capital www.accesscapital.biz Altro www.altro.com Amaya-Astron www.amaya-astron.com.mx American Cooling Technology, Inc. www.actusa.us.com APTA Expo www.aptaexpo.com ARBOC Specialty Vehicles www.ARBOCsv.com Atlantic Detroit Diesel-Allison www.atlanticdda.com Awash Systems Corp. www.awashsystems.com Bauer’s Intelligent Transportation www.bauerscertifiedpreowned.com Bitimec Wash-Bots www.wash-bots.com Bitzer www.bitzerus.com Blue Bird Commercial Group www.mbcbus.com Bridgestone www.bridgestonefirestonemileagesales.com BYD www.byd.com Camira www.camirafabrics.com Carlyle www.carlylecompressor.com CBM NA www.cbmna.com Complete Coach Works www.completecoach.com Davey Coach Sales, Inc. www.daveycoach.com Diamond Manufacturing www.diamondmfg.com Dixie Electric Ltd. www.dixie-electric.com EMP www.emp-corp.com EnerDel www.EnerDel.com Enseicom, Inc. www.enseicom.com Euramtec www.euramtec.com Forest River Bus www.forestriverinc.com Freightliner www.freightlinerchassis.com Gillig LLC www.gillig.com Glaval Bus www.GlavalBus.com GRI Pumps www.gripumps.com H’Burg Sports Bar And Grill Hometown Trolley www.hometowntrolley.com Hudson River Corporation www.lavdump.com Idrive, Inc www.idriveglobal.com IHOP INA Bus Sales (Irizar) www.inabussales.com Infanti™ Bus & Coach Upholstery www.infantibusandcoachupholstery.com Lancer Insurance www.lancerinsurance.com Page 82
BUSLINE
Company
5 20 56 34 44 79 18 49 77 28 45 55 42 10 29 75 32 76 39 21 70 80 59 63 15 33 27 3 41 13 30 78 25 71 19 78 83 51 64
September/October 2017
APTA EXPO Booth Numbers Current As Of 09/01/17, courtesy of www.aptaexpo.com.
Website
Marathon Brake Systems Midwest Bus Corporation Mile-X Mohawk Lifts Motor Coach Industries (MCI) Motorcoach Safety Training Co. Motorcoach Tire Sales Onspot Automatic Tire Chains Petro Stopping Centers Prevost Car ProAir, LLC Profusion Industries Relational Bus Systems RUD Chain, Inc. Safety Step Safety Vision Sardo Bus & Coach Upholstery SCALABROS Service Insurance Specialty Vehicles Sutrak Teknoware, Inc. TEMSA TIB Transign TransitWorks Transportation Information Systems TRP Bus Parts UMA Expo United States Warranty Corporation United States Seating Vanner Power VDO RoadLog Voith Voltabox WEH Technologies Inc. Willingham Inc. XALT Energy, LLC
www.MarathonBrake.com www.midwestbus.com www.mile-x.com www.mohawklifts.com www.mcicoach.com www.mcstco.com www.motorcoachtiresales.com www.onspot.com
www.prevostcar.com www.proairllc.com www.ProFusionIndustries.com www.rbs2000.com www.rotogrip.us www.safetystep.net www.safetyvision.com www.sardobus.com www.scalabros.it www.serviceins.com www.specialtyvehicles.com www.sutrakusa.com www.teknoware.com www.temsa.com www.tibinsurance.com www.transignllc.com www.Transit-Works.com www.tisfleet.com www.TRPQualityParts.com www.motorcoachexpo.com www.uswceagle.com www.usscgroup.com www.vanner.com www.vdoroadlog.com www.voith.com www.voltabox.com www.weh.us www.willinghaminc.com www.xaltenergy.com
Page #
37 46 77 73 2 58 6 80 69 84 60 35 57 50 75 14 7 76 71 61 65 72 31 47 17 24 48 36 81 74 54 16, 38 26 9 53 52 23 11
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UNMATCHED EXPERTISE. UNPARALLELED SERVICE. The world’s most advanced coaches deserve the best in support, and that’s precisely what Prevost provides. No other service network delivers more technical expertise and years of hands-on experience. It’s a commitment we make to your drivers, your passengers, your schedule and your bottom line.
prevostcar.com
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