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Transactions Newsletter

December 2002 / January 2003

Bay Area Takes Delivery
Of New Express BusesNew express buses
Examples of the region's new express buses – both new and old – were on display at the press conference and celebration hosted by MTC. (Photo: Chriss Poulsen)

A new generation of long-haul commuter buses is rolling into town, thanks to MTC’s Regional Express Bus Program and $40 million in seed money from the Traffic Congestion Relief Program established by Governor Gray Davis and the state Legislature in 2000.

MTC recently hosted a press conference and celebration at Bishop Ranch business park in San Ramon to mark the arrival of the express buses, the first 13 of which were delivered to County Connection (Central Contra Costa Transit Authority).

Another seven vehicles were delivered in short order to WHEELS (Livermore/Amador Valley Transit Authority) and WestCAT (Western Contra Costa Transit Authority), with 61 more slated to arrive at AC Transit, Golden Gate Transit, Vallejo Transit and Tri Delta Transit (Eastern Contra Costa Transit Authority) this December. In the coming months, Fair- field/Suisun Transit and SamTrans will receive their allotments, bringing the size of the new fleet to 94.

The vehicles will use the region’s growing network of freeway carpool lanes to whisk travelers around the Bay Area. In some cases they will augment existing long-haul service, while in others they will be used to launch new lines.

Bus interior
The express buses are built for comfort, with high-back seats. (Photo: Chriss Poulsen)

“Express buses are a cost-effective way to combat traffic congestion,” said Randy Rentschler, MTC manager of Legislation and Public Affairs. “They don’t require the capital investment of building new rail lines, yet they help fill the gaps in our regional rail system.”

In compliance with California Air Resources Board requirements, the new vehicles are low-emission buses that utilize diesel particulate filters. They also offer such amenities as reclining or high-back seats, more legroom, overhead reading lights and luggage racks. The vehicles also meet all requirements of the Americans With Disabilities Act.

Among the officials participating in the Regional Express Bus Program launch was state Senator Tom Torlakson, who authored the legislation that created the Traffic Congestion Relief Program.
— John Goodwin


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