New buses hit Phoenix streets
March 29, 2016 The Phoenix Public Transit Department has ordered 120 new buses to serve the city’s local routes, the first order for new 40-foot buses since late 2013. The buses, built in California by the Gillig Corporation, use compressed natural gas (CNG) and have a fuel range of at least 400 miles, which means most of the new buses would not require daily refueling. The new buses replace existing liquefied natural gas (LNG) buses that average 12 years and 500,000 miles of service, some as old as 18 years with nearly 1 million miles. Another benefit of these new buses comes once the weather warms up. Each Gillig bus is equipped with an enhanced air conditioning system that includes two units that work in tandem to cool both the front and back of the bus simultaneously. Each Gillig bus is $520,000 and is paid for with both federal and county (Prop. 400) funds. The result of this investment means less repair and maintenance, and the city has a more efficient fleet to service those that depend on daily bus service. Five to eight buses will arrive each week now through July, and as they do city staff will inspect each one to ensure all equipment is in working order, as well as install the farebox. Once a bus clears inspection, it is sent to one of Phoenix’s three bus yards and then put into service. This order of Gillig buses replaces about 25 percent of the city’s bus fleet. However, this is just the start; over the next 18 months, local and RAPID users can look forward to additional new 40-foot and 60-foot (articulated) buses. About the Phoenix Public Transit Department: The Phoenix Public Transit Department provides Phoenix residents a variety of transit options and is the largest member of the Valley Metro regional transit system. Services range from local and commuter buses to alternative transportation for senior citizens and special needs. The city of Phoenix funds transit, and other transportation improvements, through Transportation 2050 (T2050) – a local sales tax approved by Phoenix voters in 2015 – as well as county and federal funds. T2050 allows for enhanced bus service, transit-related technology improvements and fare media upgrades under the leadership of the Citizens Transportation Commission. Visit us at phoenix.gov/publictransit or follow us on Twitter for the latest news. Media Contact: Lars Jacoby, 602-261-8254; Brenda Yanez, 602-261-8392 General Contact: Valley Metro Customer Service, 602-253-5000 Phone Number:
https://www.phoenix.gov/news/arts/1227]]]]> ]]>