FORD: Fix Or Repair Daily
CHEVROLET: Cracked Heads, Every Valve Rotted, Oil Leaks Every Time
GMC: Got Mechanic Coming
ESCORT: Either Smokes Crack Or Runs Track
It recently occured to me that no one ever thought of an acronym for buses, then I thought of a good one for Flxible:
Feels Like Xmas In Bus Lines Everywhere
Let me know if anyone can think of some more for the other bus makes out there. Have fun!
-F.
NEW FLYER: Notoriously Everywhere When Flxibles Leave Your Everyday Routes
It's true..LFs spring from out of the bushes and trample out Flxes!
-F.
-F.
-F.
Find On the Roadside Dead and Fiat back went they were still in the US market was: Fix It Again Tony.
Wayne
NABI: Not A Bad Idea
INVERO: Incredibly Nice, Very Expensive; Rockefellers Only
LFS: Looks Fairly S***ty
AM GENERAL: American Motors Generically Emulated Newlooks...Eeyuck! Retired At Last.
CHANCE: Cruddy, Half A**ed; No Commercial Endurance.
OPUS: Oh, Please...Ugly Styling.
And for those who have experienced the overly low-slung Thomas...
SLF: Severed Lower Flanks
Enjoy!
-F.
MCI: Mostly Cruising Interstates
EAGLE: Even At Greyhound, Mostly Extinct
Even Aerosmith Got MCIs Eventually
Enjoy!
-F.
EAGLE: Even Aerosmith Got Le mirages Eventually
I'll try to think of more and hope others do the same.
-F.
-F.
Know what I love best about the MC-12s? The HT 748s and the 6V92s!
-F.
Ain't Travelin' Efficiently
Amateur Transit Enterprise.
My last 2 1/2 years living in the L. A. area, I had the misfortune
of having my "home" route, LACMTA 125-Rosecrans Ave, operated by the
cretins that were ATE (Mis)Management and Service Co. under contract
to MTA. Mis-managemnet is putting it lightly. It didn't help that MTA provided them with 16-year old RTS-04s and 12 year old Neoplans to run the service, but still...
Annoyingly
Roughriding
Trash
Which stands for ART (Arlington Regional Transit)
and another one
Demandinly
Abnormally
Superobsessive
Hellcats
Abusively
Roughriding
Trash
Well that was pretty much the problem with the L. A. MTA contract. I don't think ATE/First Transit had one really qualified mechanic. I was constantly seeing ads in the paper for diesel mechanics from them.
It was not unusual to have missed runs due to lack of equipment being available. Rear doors were constantly out of service (and since on the RTS-04 the wheelchair lift is in the back, that meant a non-accessible bus on an accessible route. Also, the A/C was constantly going out (and the 1981 RTS-04s they were using had non-opening windows, which was a screwup on RTD's part when they specified that in the order). At least the 1984 Neoplans had openable windows. It got to the point where ATE had to start sending a few buses back to MTA's Central Maintenace facility to get things fixed. Eventually, MTA obtained 25 1984 RTS-04s from Long Beach Transit for ATE to use. Those were in great condition--for aboue a week. :P
Here are some others that I have heard, though some may be dirty...
MTA="Money Thrown Away"
MBSA="Maintainted Solely By Assholes"
SEPTA="Should Everyone Pay Them Attention?"
WMATA="Why Must Anyone Take Aspirin?"
PACE="Pot Actually Cures Everyone"
Any more?
Incognito
Do you mean MSBA?
Lemme think of some more, since I am bored...
Incognito
RTA: Rail Totally AWESOME!!!
And their customer service people are VERY pleasant and willing to help you..both in person and at the website. Plus they run my babies...Flxible Metros all over the place!
-F.
DDOT: Detroit's Dilapidated Old Transits
DDOT: Drivers Delightful; Outsides Trashed
I mean, seriously...the drivers in Motown are among the most pleasant I've ever met, but even their 2002 RTS fleet looks 20 years old.
And then there's some of the B/Os at certain large areas of VA:
HRT: Hateful, Repulsive Trash
WMATA: Wow...Malevolent A**holes Tossing Aggression!
GRTC: Grouchy, Repulsive Total Crackheads
Gotta hear some more!
-F.
Rattle Trap Shit
Real Tough Shit
When they were first built, oh God, were they rattletraps....with the plastic windows and original suspension. The noise from the plastic windows and associated hardware was deafening. You'd just about need earmuffs to drive one and still have hearing after eight hours!
Thanks to a rebuild in the early 1990's wherein one of the major changed was metal sliding window panels, a lot of work on the ususpension by our maintenance department, they actually because very good, quiet, and tight buses.
-F.
RTS: "Rolling Tons of S**t"
Now I didn't come up with that one, but will admit it did make me chuckle when I heard it. We love you, RTS!
-F.
I think that's a typo, your acronym spells out "IIVERO"
...unless you meant: "INVERO: Incredibly Noisy, Vastly Evil, Rarely Operable"
Incognito
Bad Legroom, Ugly Exterior; Barren In Research & Development
Bring some more to share with your fellow posters!
-F.
Sorry
Lack of
Funding
-F.
Heh, I have nothing else better to do...
Incognito
ACURA: Atrocious, Cash-Undertaking Rhinestone Accord
DODGE: Dem Ol' Devils Go Everywhere!
LINCOLN: Like I Need Cashmere On Lug Nuts...
VOLVO: Voracious Oil Leakage; Very Overpriced
IROC: Idiotic Rednecks On Crack
PONTIAC: Poor Old Numbskulls Think It's A Cadillac
EDSEL: Even Dad Says "Extravagant Lemon"!
GEO: Grimy Engine Overheated
JEEP: Just Empty Every Pocket; Junk Every Engine Part
SUZUKI: Sucking Up Zima, Underage Kids Intoxicated
VW: Violently Wreckable
I'll think of more, I'm sure. Oh yeah...gotta add bus content to keep it on subject. MCI NEEDS TO BRING BACK FLXIBLES!!!
-F.
Generally Enclosed? Oafs!
GOLF: Garageman's Offered Lifters Forever
And for that awful Pontiac excuse for an SUV:
AZTEK: Atrocious, Zooming Turd; Ergonomic Killjoy
Let's hear more...especially for the new generation of wimpy SUVs!
-F.
By the way, the Metro "obsesion" is winning over really well here...
Started with 8817 A12, missed F14(misjudged that it would come late)
to Capitol Heights
2453 U8-Capitol Heights to Minnesota Avenue
-3740 destination sign not working
5233 X2 Minnestota avenue to Chinatown (really packed)
-5237 to Minn Ave, said Lafayette Sq.
5206 70 Chinatown to L'Enfant Plaza
2011 5A L'Enfan Plaza to Dullus Airport(almost full)
-no connection to Loudoun County
-Dullus observations
---Avis rent a car shuttles are GM RTSs with 6V92 and 71s
---Hertz used Gillig Advantage 40'
---Parking shuttles are 30' Gillig Phantons(6V92,M11, C8.3),
---Transmark REs with either a front and rear full or wheelchair rear
4226 5A Dullus Airport to Herndon P&R (really full)
-Herndon P&R reconstruction nearly complete
7825 950 Herndon P&R to Reston Town Center
7912 504 Reston Town Center to Tyson's Transit Center
-only person on bus
-all of North FFX 1998 Orion Vs have orange LED sign
---might be different font or company to the southerns
7815 427 Tyson's Transit Center to West Falls Church Metro
-3909 had 28TT on all signs
-3953 and 3951 on GEORGE(wish we had either for our trip
-3911(GEORGE replacement on 3T
9491 3B West Falls Church to Rosslyn
-Was running 3T and had bike on it
2008 38B Rosslyn to Farragut Square(standing room crowded)
-8797 on D5
-metro at Rosslyn Sta. (not sure why)
-4093 on 5A or 5B run
-9232 either on 3 or 4
-9753 going on 15K
Walked to 13th and Hsts
-4100 and 4101 on S2
-8795 on P19
-2402 on X2(too crowded for this bus on this route during rush)
-4032 on 32 and 4031 on 35
---along with 4033 now at Western, from Landover
2216 36 Fed Triangle to Naylor Road
2055 F14 Naylor Road to near home
I would have written it as usual but when I did it last night, it never went through so I am doing it this way.
Wow, I came back from Canada, Q5Merrick is back and you came back from Boot Camp! What a homecoming this is! GOOD NEWS!!!! You got about 16 9400s from GH! All of the 3900s are gone!!! You also have about 26 - 30 8500s from JG! BIG AL, will fill you in! Welcome Back
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!
You forgot to mention to Jay that the five 4300s and 4552 are also now gone! (Oldest bus now there is 4659.) However, 20 of the 9100s (not the Cummins buses) are heading to Ulmer Park, with 20 9400s from Gun Hill as replacements.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Yo and guess what, I couldn't hold it in but 3997 is HISTORY! :-D
BTW, there's a L shuttle bus this weekend between Lorimer and Broadway Junction.
This is on the 8600's at UP
This is on the new arrivals at FP along with other news
Peace
David
Eight weeks ago you were lamenting the status of the sorry fleet at FP. Well, with the arrival of a few more 8500's and the 9400's from GH, things are starting to look up. There are no more 39's, 43's and some of the dredded 46-4800's have either been scrapped or shipped off to other depots--most notably JG.
Anyway, good to see you back and God Bless
Mark
Mark
Well the 3900 Series RTS's are dead! You should be happy!
Here's the picture of them at the end of their life!
4552,3951,3987
Fresh Pond now has about 27 8500's from Gleason.
Fresh pond now has 20 9400's from Gun Hill. The 9400 moves are a mess right now because they are being dispersed between Flatbush and Fresh Pond but FP is being used as the receiving point for their arrivals from GH. Fresh Pond will be keeping 9459 to 9487. All others will go to Flatbush. FP was at first to receive 50 9400's then that was changed and they were only supposed to keep 19 9400s with 10 of them going to Ulmer Park and the rest to Flatbush. To keep a long story short, UP has a problem with the 9400's so they can't take them. To replace them, Fresh Pond agreed to keep UP's 10 9400's but instead give up 10 of your beloved 9100's! 9176 - 9185 are now being transferred to UP with some gone already. Don't worry, the 9140's series are staying put at FP, for now.
More late model RTS's are to come in also to help replace the 4000's but I don't know which one's yet.
As you know all the 3900's are history. Scrapped! The 4300's, except for 4382 have all been taken out of service and marked for storage along with 4552. 4382 still sees a little service only if the depot is totally out of buses and nothing is left. For the most part it stays inside as a spare. It is, however, on the storage list also.
Some of the 4600's are being sent over to Gleason to help the 8500's come over faster to FP. Gleason will then scrap or put into storage the 46's as they get in their new buses.
And 5070 finally arrived back to Fresh Pond .
Again, welcome back.
BIG AL
I will have leave after I finish my schooling in Pensacola, Florida. And then I will stand by Fresh Pond again. When I'm in Florida, I will try to take pictures of the buses over there.
No more 3900's, FP has really improved. When I get back I'm going to try to take every FP route, I really miss home. Anyway it's great to here from you again Big Al.
BTW, Does anyone have a picture of a 9400 on a FP route? I must see it.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
As for scrapped buses, you can add 4740 with bad cylinder heads and 4832 with a shot transmission. They were added to the scrap list today. 4718 was also taken off the storage list and put on the scrap list with a bad engine.
That's all she wrote folks, for now.
BIG AL
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
http://talk.nycsubway.org/perl/read?bustalk=81454
http://www.gillig.com/AboutGillig/futbus2.jpg
Tell me what you think; you may not believe it for yourself.
-F.
-F.
And I thought the Advantage was ugly :P
-F.
Triboro had the following additional bus routes
Q-24 Woodside/Maspeth from 61st St/Rooservelt to Grand Ave/69th Street. It is now part of the Q-18 route
Q-50 Ridgewood/Rego Park from 69th St via Eliot Ave,Woodhaven Blvd,59th Ave,92nd Street. I believe that its now part of the Q-38 route
Q-51 Corona-Astoria from 31st St via Ditmasrs Blvd,78 St,Grand Central Pkway service road,80 St,Astoria Blvd,81st St,24 Ave, 82 St
I believe that its now part of the Q-19A
Q-52 Corona-Jackson Heights from Bway via 74 St,35 Ave,89 St,32 Ave,92 St,Astoria Blvd,31 Ave,102 St. I believe that it may be part of the Q-19B
It did list the Q-19A but there was no listing of the Q-19B and Q-53 and the Q-72 was listed as the B-72
Thank You
If i recall from the Motor Coach Age History of Brooklyn article the B-72 was transferred from the Brooklyn Division to Flushing Depot of the Queens Division in July of 1960 when Fresh Pond Depot was opened and the West 5th Street and Bergen Trolley Coach Depots were closed.
The Transit Authority actually sold the franchise to Triboro Coach Corporation in January of 1961.
Thank You
Yup. The current Q38 used to be two routes: Q38-Penelope and Q50-Eliot. They were far from the Triboro depot and close to each other that they were interlined for efficiency (a bus would arrive at the Metropolitan Avenue on one route and switch to the other).
- - - - -
[Q-52 Corona-Jackson Heights from Bway via 74 St,35 Ave,89 St,32 Ave,92 St,Astoria Blvd,31 Ave,102 St. I believe that it may be part of the Q-19B.]
Not part of, but all of.
Our trip together began at almost 1:00AM, when Ray (aznboy4305), Chris (NewLookTerrapin) and I (duh [BusStalker]) met up on H St & 7th St (I would’ve been later if I didn’t have to run up 7th St [literally in the street] to escape the rats and cockroaches that ran circles around me). As we went to the Eastern Tours ticket office (a lovely hole of an H St storefront adorned with a TV, a crockpot, and a boatload of FOBs), we eyed the coach that would get us to NYC in less than 4 hours – a 1997 Dina Marcopolo, Eastern Tours #888 [*1].
From the time I stepped out of the Eastern Hole to the time we boarded the bus, four different panhandlers begged for money – one of them asked each of us on three separate occasions and then tried to sell us a coat he found on a stoop on H Street. 1:00AM in Washington – I guess that’s to be expected.
Well, after looking the bus around and taking numerous photos of it (which the driver actually encouraged), we boarded at around 1:20AM. A digital clock seemingly built-in to the front of the bus (as opposed to just stuck on) read ~12:46 until the driver boarded and reset it. He then started speaking in a variant of Chinese that neither Chris nor Ray could understand. The interior of the bus was in good shape – actually cleaner than a Greyhound – but had a lingering, foul odor until the driver walked through and sprayed cologne on each seat. He gestured to me that the smell was from some guy who got off the bus earlier – the cologne was better than the smell but choked us all at first.
Following a lot of Chinese shouting back and forth, and a confused American passenger, we took off, at 1:40AM. We took the BW Parkway north out of Washington. During the first few minutes of it, the driver got three calls on a cell phone – why Chinese people answer their phones the way they do is unknown to me, but weird:
“Hullo? & % # * @ !” (Ching jong dong)”
What else is weird is this 90MPH driving WHILE TALKING ON A CELL PHONE! Not my definition of safe, but…oh well. Even more dangerous was what happened about five minutes after the last call: At 2:10 AM, the driver hit the brakes and pulled over to the shoulder. We thought that something was wrong with the bus, but then we saw two people get out of the car and onto the bus. Not exactly a scheduled stop…good customer service, but illegal as hell as we’d discover later on in the trip…
14 minutes later, we stopped at the Baltimore Travel Plaza, pointing and laughing at the Greyhound MC-12s being stored there, as well as staring at the lamp post that will no longer be around come a 30MPH wind gust or a 1MPH tap from another Greydog. As we loaded passengers, a Greyhound MC-12 departed -- #2189. We geared up because we knew we would pass it relatively soon. We left after about five minutes of more Chinese shouting, and did actually pass [*2] the New York-bound MC-12 at 2:34AM.
Following are timepoints I recorded en route to get a rough estimate of our progress:
2:55: I-95 Exit for Havre de Grace
3:00: Perryville
3:13: Delaware-MD Line
3:30: New Jersey-DE Line
3:41AM was a fun minute of our trip – I looked out the window and saw the back of a Van Hool. My eyes lit up and revealed that this coach was none other than a Dragon Coach, one of the competing Ghetto Wong Chong Coaches. This was a bit more difficult to pass because it was driven by a driver with the same demeanor as ours, but we still did so. Shortly thereafter, Chris must’ve decided that he didn’t want his armrest, so he pulled it outward to swing it downward, but it had different plans – when he tugged at it, it actually released from the seat completely, and here he is passing the armrest across the aisle to Ray and I. I was close to getting it in my bag, but he demanded that I return it…party pooper.
Come 4:05, another unexpected exit – we pulled off the NJ Turnpike, exit 4, and stopped at a Sunoco station/truck stop to fuel up. I asked about three fellow passengers if they knew how long we had at the rest stop (when we stopped, all the driver said was “# $ %!” (Ching wong!) but no one answered – this time, I didn’t even get strange looks. They all just kept about what they were doing – I guess they didn’t understand English too well. We decided then not to stray too far from the bus, so I grabbed a $1.50 Cherry Coke from a vending machine and attempted to communicate with the driver, but to no avail. Attempts to have Chris translate also failed, miserably…BUT I did find out that the water stashed behind the dashboard was FREE. Naturally, we kiped about 6 bottles between the three of us.
4:45AM: Exit 8A New Jersey Turnpike
5:13AM: Pass NIA
5:25AM: Enter Holland Tunel
5:27AM: Exit Holland Tunnel
And, at 5:30, we arrived at what I now call the “Chinatown Bus Terminal”, a row of stores where we would later see more Ghetto Wong Chong Coach activity than ever before.
Your help would be greatly appreciated.
I don't remember the "Route ID" number unfortunately.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Hopefully everything will work out.
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AcelaExpress2005 - R160
So 5566 is the LTD and I get on then we leave and it’s kind of slow via Water St making every stop and the rain coming down more harder as we go along. So then we continue on then we make the turns onto Madison St and Allen St, still slow riding with more people boarding, the sky is gray and the rain continuing to come down :-\. I was ready to call it quits due to the weather but I decide to stick with the trip 8-) and continue. When on 1 Av around 4:25pm it was raining cats & dogs alright and as we make the LTD stops more people get on then at 42 St we had a W/C come aboard taking up more time then I get off at 72 St to catch the M30 or 72. So I JUST missed 8604 and then I have to wait for the next bus so while waiting I see a few more Artics running on the 15 then 8649, a M30 arrived so I got on it.
The buses I saw on the M15
5530,5531,5543,5573,5587,5588,5592,5595,5596,5598,5603,5604,5608,5615
I ride the 30 for two blocks to transfer for the M101 LTD or the M98. So I miss 5133, which was the limited so I wait a couple of minutes then I juts decide to take the M101 that’s only going to 125/Amsterdam hoping it would be a sort of quick ride, and boy was I wrong and starts a downturn of longer waits for buses & such [you’ll see]. We have a W/C get onto 9639 then we finally leave 72 and the traffic conditions don’t make things much better so it’s a very slow ride via 3 Av then 2 M101 LTD’s and two M98’s pass us and one of those buses was 9342 >L. So the [frustrating] ride continues then I was hoping to ride the M100 and 463 was right in front of us but we couldn’t get into the stop with it b/c of the M60 which was in front then after 463 passed Madison Av I gave up on trying to get it so I got off at St Nicholas Av and I get on the B and I ride one stop north to 135 St to catch the Bx33. So when I go upstairs it just left the stop then I have to run across the street so I don’t miss it so I take that [rather than the Bx19] and it’s a so-so ride and I take it to Third Av to catch the Bx1 LTD but I see a Bx1 getting ready to depart; it’s a local; so I get on and it’s a slow ride via the Concourse. So I decide to get off at 167 St since I couldn’t deal with the 15-20mph driving :-\. I see the Bx35 across the street so it’s all good there.
I hop on 9688 and at first it’s a so-so ride but then after turning onto E 168 St it’s a nice run so I ride it to the last stop by Southern Blvd where I would take either the Bx4 to the Q44 or the Bx19 to the Bx21 then the Q44. I just missed 196 heading n/b on the Bx19 so I get a bag of Party Mix and I see the Bx4 so I go back to the stop and I board the Artic and we leave. I see RTS 9249 running on the 4 and the ride was pretty slow but not bad [seeing we were under the el]. I take a ride to White Plains Rd to catch the Q44. I have to wait about 10 minutes then two 44’s, one heading to Flushing only arrive at the same time so I hop on the Flushing bus; 291, since it was kind of empty. The driver does good speed via the Cross Bronx and we make the turns that lead to the Whitestone bridge. Its around 7:45pm before we reach the tolls and its bumper to bumper traffic and the EZ Pass lanes were FAR worse so we went through the cash lane and that really saved some time 8-). Over the bridge there’s gridlock and we go no more than 10-15mph due to the heavy traffic. So we have 561 in front of us and we just miss the light at 14 Av and the other 44 leaves us behind [for now] and we continue our trip so I enjoyed the not so crowded atmosphere for once and when reaching Main St I get off to catch the Q17.
I see 4580 & 8972 so I figure the bus in front, 4580 would leave first but 8972 actually left so I get on and this bus has C-O-L-D air conditioning! :-0 I was really shocked but I enjoyed it alright and its not necessarily a fast ride especially via Horace Harding but the climate in the bus was awesome :-D. So then we continue our same pace throughout my ride to 179 St where I get off to transfer to the F train. I board the R46 and we wait a couple of minutes before we leave and it’s a pretty cool ride to 71 Av then we begin the QB express ride and it was a very good run then we go through the 63 St stations and then I get off at 34 St to ride the final leg of my trip, the Q. I run just in case the train might be there and when I got downstairs, the Q JUST left and I have to wait on that hot ass platform :-\. I wait 8 minutes then the next Q arrives and I take it via Broadway express then on the Brighton, get off my stop then head home. Arrived at 10:30pm at Newkirk Av so my trip nearly took 8 hours.
NF 900 B8
RTS 9436 B41 LTD
R62 1488 (4)
NF Artic 5566 M15 LTD
RTS 8649 M30
RTS 9639 M101
R68 2732 (B)
Orion 6006 Bx33
NF Artic 5488 Bx1
RTS 9688 Bx35
NF Artic 5346 Bx4
Orion 291 Q44
RTS 4580 Q17
R46 5848 (F)
R68 2790 (Q)
Bx4#9249
2) There will be no takeover this year. I have seen no plans to date and since legislation changes will be required, there will be no takeover NEXT YEAR either. Sounds like a renewal is coming up and I'm going to be not very nice to the Franchise Concession and Review Board about it.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
At least Jamaica has enough 102'' buses to use its 96'' buses only on express duty, and TCC has only 102'' buses. (Command, a GBL subsidiary, has 96'' buses, but just 11 of them remain.)
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
I was down in Rockaway Park back in June and I saw ALOT OF GM RTS'S comming every few minutes and only ONE ORION V ON THE Q22!
Every time except for two or three times that I ride the Q22 from Beach 149 St there is always 2 buses :-\. Most of GBL's GM's are in very bad shape, and don't even get to the black smoke & lack of A/C.....
Incognito
Thirdly:If the w/c lifts don't work,they don't work.PERIOD!Nothing can be done about that also bus drivers aren't gonna load a w/c person if the bus is crowded,that would be a major inconvience.You shouldn't have given the lady GBL's phone number.There was nothing to complain about in the first place.What I just finished saying are the reason's why the w/c lift situation's occur.Again,nothing can be done about it.
Take it from me,I say all this from personal experience.I'm probably the only one in this whole damn city that truly understand's why buses and train's don't come when they should.No one should complain. Why complain about something that is way beyond someone's control? That makes no sense.Does it to you?
I know the Q60 is prone to those things you said above and that's true. Also the GM RTS's have OLD W/C Lifts and I think the reason why they break down and the A/C Don't work is because of AGE! I cannot blame Green Lines if they don't want to matain their GM RTS's anymore.
And you are not the only one in the city that understands it,I Understand it as well
Green lines gets reimbursed for all maintance and repairs it does on it's buses. In fact thier was an investigation by DOI back in 2000 looking into the Cooper family of companies billing for repairs that were not done. Unfortunitly due to horrible recorda and DOT lack of depolying a better tracking system, no evidence that could be proven beyond a reasonable doubt in a courtroom was uncovered but thier was definte evidence that funny business was going on. This may be an unspoken reason why bloomberg is in such a rush to dump the DOT bus operations. Under MTA control, many costs of operating these lines would drop dramatically. I rather the line works such as bus drivers and mechanics get paid a bit more then the money going into the pockets of the cooper family
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
I. My GBL story, about five years ago I got on bus #246 Q21 from B116st, to my surprise the driver was extremely disrespectful and after starting commotion with some lady because he picked up on the wrong stop, I had to step in. THE GUY WOULDN"T STOP, he had to prove his point so blatently that as he negotiated a right turn from 116st
he hit the front bumper of a parked vehicle. NO, it didn't stop there
He kept making extremely abusive remarks about my accent, immigrant status(I've been a citizen) and told me to "Go back to my country"
I would think gladly, with all the women and children on the bus, wouldn't anyone believe that transportation in Calcutta or communist Poland is 10 times better.I never made the complaint, may God Bless him...as he is always in control.
II. As far as the handicapped, how could u have the oddasity to say that a complaint shouldn't be made, SOMEONE HAS TO BE RESPONSIBLE. THE GOVERNMENT GIVES BENEFITS AND THOSE SERVICES HAVE TO BE TENDERED TO THE PEOPLE< THATS THE WHOLE LOGIC. Every bus is crowded and will theoritically experience the same delay.
-what options do they have
a) they can only afford half-fare on local busses and subways
B) Paratransit vehicle can be costly,$3.50
c) express busses:what discount, there aren't many routes with off-peak express, so who fits this criteria if they can pay $4.00
d) franchise corp now charge a flat fare of $1.00 reguardless of peak or off-peak
III. I believe riding GBL is the lowest form of social behavior, this is not directed to the NYDOT but just to GBL, the busses are outdated,extremely inconsistent
_if transportation isn't timely, what purpose does it serve,honestly if I cant get a friend to drive I'de rathar stay put _In my opinion if I cant afford vehicle insurance, and someone like my mother who is temp disabled and cannot drive, is that to say we aren't entitled to fair and adequate transportation, EVERYONE NEEDS TO GET FROM POINT A TO POINT B.
IV. I am shocked that GBL is still providing bus service, Ask any rider ,If there is an alternative they will take it, whether its a cab or LIRR or dollar van
V rathar than blaming the disabled, blame GBL
-Queens Surface has updated its entire fleet(ex express routes), why cant GBL follow through
-GBL bus drivers take extensive breaks at terminals and follow their own agenda on a regular basis
-In fact bus drivers take pauses en route to purchase items and waste the time of many passengers, A 1 MIN HOLDUP FOR 30 PASS IS REALLY THIRTY MIN IN THEIR EYES
Out of anger at the next stop, an elderly women wanted to exit and actually fell over as the careless operator foolishly pounds the brake
I CAN GO ON AND ON,
WHERE THE F*** DO THEY FIND THESE DRIVERS....ON RIKERS ISLAND,
there really needs to be discipline restored among the employees of GBL, and the DOT needs to stop acting as the middleman and ignoring complaints
Good grief man, you're a freakin' traffic checker! You're not some transit czar or anything of the sort. Maybe you've played "Traffic Giant" or something and combined that with your "exhaulted" TA entry level position knowledge and come to believe that you hold some higher knowledge than the rest of us. Listen, YOU ARE A TRAFFIC CHECKER! I can do what you do! In fact, I've done it before. A child can do what you do. So don't get on here thinking you're hot shit because you have a 30K or less position in the TA and telling people what they can and cannot complain about. You're nothing but a rank and file worker. A data collector who could be replaced by a machine or even an updated farebox.
As much as I love the Privates for employing hundreds of vintage, perfectly acceptable (in my eyes anyway) RTS buses, I'm not going to sit here and think, "Oh geez, these people suck. They complain about the poor service!" When the service is rancid crap! It's their God given right to complain. Also, it's a consitutional right. Ever heard of the 1st Amendment, Ozzy, transit guru? or should I just go head and call you Mr. Kalikow(sp?) since that's who you obviously think you are.
Honsetly, I know more about operating a transit system than you do. Believe me or not. Yet, you have the nerve to say you're the only one in the LARGEST FREAKIN' CITY IN AMERICA that knows why the trains and buses run and how? Please Mr. Kalikow, spare me. Just go on about your business of passenger notations until you are replaced by a machine and spare us your inane rantings.
Disclaimer: I in no way meant to offend anyone who may be a traffic checker, unless they are Ozzy, who is a poor representative of the profession. Thank you. GBL sucks!
Can't take the # 7 from Lincoln Avenue(52nd St.) two stops to Lowery Street (40th St) and walk 3 blocks.
My mother worked for the Unemployment office in QP for many years. During the transit strike in the 60's, she walked from 43rd St & QB to QP in cold weather to get to work. She was in her mid-50's then and knew she couldn't get onto a Q60. (GBL was the only company running during the strike).
The fact that Mrs. Schumer doesn't want to give GBL better buses is the problem.....Complain to her. Since the Coopers are expecting to be taken over by the city in the near future why should they spend money on repairs unless required to ?
Obviously, you are able to cross Queens Blvd without the need for assistance. You could have walked or ridden the subway in less time than you spent waiting for buses.
In the idealized world where public transport is not a business of collecting fares busses would operate in a criss-cross pattern and on option with one transfer would be available whereever you want to go. Thats unfortunate as capitalism strays from this idea.
Hmm? A “business of collecting fares,” you say. Were you not aware that the fares usually do not cover the whole cost of operations. Would you like free service? Move to Pittsburgh, PA—the bus and LRT service in the Triangle is free.
Also, do not complain about the SI Ferry, which moved from charging 50¢ to being free itself.
I just happened to catch a glimpse of their depot in Queens and it looks like most of their equipment sits outside. Could probably say the same thing about QSC and JBL but at least they keep their equipment reasonably clean.
I think 100% accessibility should be 100% low floor. I commend the TA for delivering these busses as CNG and Hybrid in Brooklyn and Bronx.
These wheelchair lifts probably elicit the most complaints from least people.
Lets get something straight....I'm slim and 6'-3" as far as I'm concerned LOw CAPACITY is ADEQUATE CAPACITY. The seats are too small and lack leg room. I love foward facing- but not on MTA. I have to sit in handicapped seat just too feel comfortable.
MTA defines one bus load as packed to the brim vs. other carriers that count the number of seats and then call it "full". Whatever the case, standing is always an issue in NY.
There is a reason why people vandalize public infrastructure and steal German vehicles. Corporate America rewards people for leasing cars for small business and treats the average worker like cattle, trotting through lines and waiting for vouchers.
If you like to be squeezed like an animal into some local bus and wouldn't be a productive member of society to afford otherwise, then those types of people are scrubs.
Is this what we are getting at? welfare transpo' tation
When 1/2/3/9 subway service was flooded out this afternoon, I became quite pleased that the M104 doesn't run low floors.
Folks. You would not believe how much better a modern day Light Rail is compared to a bus. There is MUCH more room for wheel chairs, baby carriages, strollers, bicycles and shopping carriages full of groceries all at the SAME TIME! The ride is sooo much smoother than a bus since it doesn't have to hit potholes, ruts or bumps in the road.
I know that it may be impossible to replace the Green Bus line with a Light rail but it just goes to show you what New York City gave up when they raised their trolley tracks half a century ago.
Since the Hudson Bergen Light Rail started, I've given up the bus entirely. Seriously. When I need to commute into Manhattan, I'll ALWAYS take the light rail to the Path station. I'm done with the bus.
I have another option for those that are suffering from the poor service of the Green Bus line. Bicycles.
An inexpensive beater bicycle with two good good locks can get you to the subway quickly avoiding the Green Line entirely. You would park your bicycle at the station saving time and money. I do this today and avoid paying the bus each day on my 1.1 mile ride to the Light Rail.
Many people will NOT be able to do this but for those who are healthy, this option is certainly more attractive than boarding a bus with no A/C.
At a cost of one stolen bike a day, I'de rathar keep beefing with the drivers as I described in an earlier post.. Even with 10 padlocks, any stolen component will prevent me from getting home.
You cant even idle in a car on Sutphin without a ticket. They'll probably start handing out tickets for no helmet and not properly mounting onto a bike rack.
Parking Garages will assume no responsibility for stolen property.
thats the deal with Queens, mopeds are illegal and cpould be confiscated, just to drive a crummy $500 car costs $558.oo monthly for basic liability(yes, thats how much I was paying) and express options like LIRR are very costly and disproportionate
I can only speak for myself. I park my bicycle in Manhattan by 34th street next to a pole. The bike is new and purchased from ToysR Us for about $80.00 dollars. It has been on the streets of Manhattan 24/7 for the past 4 months. The gears don't work but I treat it like a single speed. Other than the rear brake needing to be fixed, the bike has worked wonderfully.
I'm sure there might be a pole by jamaica Avenue you can attach a beater bike to. To be totally honest, I was surprised as anyone that a bicycle can live on the streets week after week but it's true.
Here's the key.
Don't buy an expensive bike. I use a girls bike and made it look ugly by putting tape all over it. Furthermore, I use the the most expensive locks on the bike (Kryptonite New York Chain and Kryptonite Goran cable). You need two locks on a bike. The chain goes around the frame and rear wheel while the cable goes around the front wheel to the frame.
My beater bicycle has paid itself off from NOT having to buy the monthly Metrocard in the past 3 months. If the bike gets stolen, I will go out and buy another right away as it will pay itself off within 1 1/2 months. Seriously. I wish I had done this sooner and don't regret it all.
www.trainweb.org/phillynrhs/RPOTW030803.2.html
For photos and the test train in the new station.
www.septa.org/news/FTCa5map.pdf
I ride Westchester Bee-Line more than I do NYCT (or NJ Transit, for that matter) but in GENERAL I would say NYCT buses are the most comfortable. On Bee-Line it depends. The Orions seem to be the best over all, though the coldest are usually Flxibles. The Neoplan Artics are spotty, some have just a hint of air-conditioning while others are pretty good. But it was on an Flxible the other day, on a 1W or 5, I forget which, that I said to the operator upon leaving, "I hate to get off this bus." It was the most comfortable I'd been all day. (I work in a factory.) It was bliss-like. Any comments??
The new artics at 126 may not have that problem yet, but give them a few years.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
but the worst case no A/c on a Queens Surface, this is hell on earth, with no A/C I should get a refund>
its funny how cars of R33 class(off the topic) on the #7 with FANS ONLY are still in service, I was on one today, aren't these supposed to be out of service during July and Aug
You should have seen some of the Nova RTS buses this weekend, there was condensation in the back three sections (15 feet) of many of these buses.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
In the past couple days, though, I see he has competition -- but it IS directly from the Lego folks themselves!
Last night my wife and I were over at Downtown Disney in Anaheim (California) and we decied to go into Disneyland Park to grab some food. We took the monorail back out, and it passes the Lego Store at Downtown Disney on the way out. It's very hard to see, as it is about at the second-story level and back from the shelf edge, but they have an RTS bus in Golden Gate Transit colors in one of the Lego city scenes in the Lego Store there.
Then today, we got some free passes to the Legoland amusement park in Carlsbad (about 35 miles north of San Diego). Basically a kiddie park, but we went anyway just to see it. They have Lego-made representations of a few of the USA's larger cities (NYC, Boston, New Orleans, LA, San Francisco, and Washington DC). In the New York area models, there wasn't a bus to be seen. Funny thing, though, there was a NYCTA RTS (same size as the GGT one at Downtown Disney) sitting in, of all places, the San Francisco area! And, in the Washington DC area, they had what looked like a pretty good representation of an MCI MC-9 (could have passed for a 96/102A3 as well), and a handful of the noted "Tourmobile" trams that are seen around the DC tourist area.
They also had pretty darn good representations of San Francisco cable cars in the SF model area....and under the cutaway of Grand Central Terminal, they actually had correctly-rendered Metro-North M-1 trains!! Also, in New Orleans, pretty good looking streetcars like those down in their waterfront area. The creators of these Lego models at their park went to a lot of effort in their research as well as model building....amazing what they did with Lego bricks!
As I live only ten minutes from Disneyland, and do have an annual pass to enter their parks, I will keep trying to photograph that Golden Gate RTS -- will be tricky, due to its location, will have to do it at night when the store lights are on (as it is on the side of the store where the sun usually shines...)
I'll bet the folks at Lego would love to see a pic of this thing...it even has working steering and opening doors. Many busfans have asked about building one, but it takes so much in time and materials that barely anyone would pay for it. I even got stiffed on eBay once by someone who bought a second one I had made...BOY did I want to burn up their feedback, but I let it slide. Thanks for the kind note!
Sincerely,
Fred Donaher
Speaking of LFS...
http://www.brickshelf.com/cgi-bin/gallery.cgi?f=13554
-F.
After lunch we passed by the Metro extension construction and then went to THE BUS yard, insert jokes now, and saw some buses. Then next was Annex where we saw one surburban(4388) and also 9305 (with Metro D back), 9620(repowered, surburban, was at Montgomery) and a couple of others. We then headed over Southern and took some pics at the back yard and then headed past the front yard where some buses(to my surprise) were parked. We then headed over to Four Mile Run where we parked looked at some of the buses, I took a pic of 8768(still has the large rear fleet number, like all of the 87s, 88s, 89s, and 92s, when they first came in). We then headed over to the other garage for more viewing. As we were about to leave, two bus drivers came by and one lady driver asked us what we were doing(not really in a bad way), we just said just looking at the buses, and her reply was "sure, ok"(not in a demeaning or I will call Metro police way, just more like, there are bus fans type of way). After more walking around, we then headed to Royal. We basically just drove around Royal, making fun of how VA buses run timewise on weekends. We then headed to DASH yard, and just parked outside of the yard, Chris D took a couple of pics and we made some more DASH jokes and headed to Fairfax Connector south garage. We got there and got out some took some pics, including some of 7756 which is going to be or is now retired, also spotted some more still in service Orion Is and 35 foot Orion Vs. We then headed to PRTC, which was an addition, we were ahead in our intenerary. We saw some about to be retired Eagles, some MCIs, some Orion V surburbans and some surburban RTSs which were parked in the rear. We also saw some Omnilink buses and to describe them, they will be known as 3M, or MMM, or Mutanted Mommy Mobiles. We also got some 55 cent sodas, avoided 95 north and heading up to Arlington. At Arlington, we walked around, made fun of ART, and THE BUS and then headed to our last stop which was Western. At Western, we saw 4309 heading in, but couldn't really get a good pic, because when the driver parked it, he turned off his destination sign. We did walk around where the customers go to get flash passes. I was about to take a long distance pic of 8974, but then I spotted a metro employee looking at us and aborted my attempted pic. After Western, Perry and I headed to the Friendship Heights Metro station to go home leaving Wayne, Chris G and Chris D.
Perry and I got red line car 3148 to Metro center. We had a four car train, which should have been a six car one, as a whole bunch of people got on, mainly at Woodley Park station. At Metro Center, I took the blue line to Addison Road, leaving Perry(Actually, a CAF car came up and I took it), which was 5167(the car I was riding on). There seemed to problems still with the doors as it took about 4 or 5 times to get the door completely closed, but it only happened once. At Addison Road, I got 2060 on the F14 home, got on with some whiny ghetto/bebe teens who complained that the a/c was on and they were too cold and repeatedly ask the operator to turn the a/c off repeatedly. Also before the F14 came, a C29 pulled off, btw it was raining to beat the drum, with a packed load. I got off of the F14 walked home,only to see police up the street, maybe doing a murder scene( practically unheard of around where I live, news at 11 to be sure.
Oh and as we came back from Western to drive back to White Flint, we passed by a giant castle;-)
I think I'm going to have to look into taking the 11Y down to the Mount Vernon area on some PM rush when I have a day off during the week. It was a very scenic ride on our way back up to Arlington. Still not sure why there were bus stops along the GW Parkway since there was absolutely nothing around there, but, hey more power to you if you can get a bus to stop while doing 55 up the highway.
My trip home from Metro Center wasn't bad. It was pretty crowded, but some old guy threw a pick on this woman blocking her path and allowed me to grab a seat by the window. : ) At Virginia Square, for some reason the doors on our car wouldn't open. It was a Rohr, but didn't catch the car number. I thought we had stopped short of our mark, but realized that wasn't the case when a bunch of people were walking to the escalators from the other cars and all of a sudden we pulled out of the station, much to the dismay of the trapped passengers in my car. My stop was next and all I could think was that I was going to take an unwanted trip to Vienna, but luckily at Ballston the doors opened.
Here are mine
The Ride-On TMC CityCruiser
995707: The wrecked bus
A GMC New Look hiding within Landover Division
Albino Moose Heaven;-)
PG County The Bus TL-960's
Doesn't it feel great to be a delivery van, err, Chumpion?;-)
A CAGV (Crappy Ass Gasoline Vehicle)
Bus lineups at the Southern Division
DASH of Alexandria, VA with their 99.9% weekend spare ratio;-)
FC South County buses. The flat tired bus is one of the few FC-exclusive orders. A majority of FC's Orion V fleet have been piggybacked or reject pick-ups from WMATA.
This Orion I looks like its headed for the auction lot.
An ugly ass minibus run by PRTC
Retired Eagles (Anyone know the model type of these?)
The backbone of PRTC's local routes in Prince William County, an Orion V.
Ugggh, it's not exactly an honor to be nominated for this...
4309: The only WMATA 1998 Orion V with Luminator Horizon signs.
-F.
-F.
1. Isn't DC more friendly at times, when the lady driver asked you what you were doing and said "okay", I'm not sure how this situation would of turned out in NYC, more like "photography is illegal" and call the NYPD for a citation? LOL I wouldn't know.
2. I didn't know PRTC ran any RTS's, did the Orion V's replace them?
That was a very good summary of our tour. After you and Perry left we drove toward Rockville, but there was an interesting detour:-). Probably some to discuss in person or via e-mail:-). Once we parted ways at my day/weekend was barely starting. I went home, packed some clothes, met the young lady and off we went to NYC. I finally arrived in NYC at about 1:00 AM. We went to ride in the Historical Harlem Bike Tour which is part of Harlem Week. I didn't get a chance to do any bus/railfanning. I did see a few of the brand spanking new New Flyer D60HF along with the regular stuff.
Wayne
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AcelaExpress2005 - R160
This ride is faster and we make the stops as we go along so at Myrtle Av I see 9487 on the B54 and around here I also see UP newcomer 9176 with a new paint job & UP stickers [looked very nice J]. We do kind of good and via Johnson Av we hit 40mph until we reach Bushwick Av and make the turn and the traffic isn’t as bad as I was going to B’way. Then We reach Lorimer and someone asked me if we reached and I told him yes and was like, damn its about time, to me that was funny since it seemed like he was on for a long time :-P. I begin the 2nd trip heading southeast and I get 8453 so I wasn’t gonna pass it up since there were no JG buses that I saw there last Saturday [ENY Nova saw 2 of them].So this bus is nice and cool [I had good luck when it came to A/C today :-D, everything I rode had working A/C]. This is a pretty fast starter and the B/O did good and via Johnson we really got some speed up there and we’re moving along and we catch up to 4973 which left before my bus. Then we get back to Broadway and I hop on the J to head to Cypress Hills to ride the J shuttle. So an R42 pulls in and we have to wait about 6 minutes; crew change?; and then we move along and while making the turn all of a sudden the train just STOPS! We all thought someone pulled the emergency brake but it wasn’t the case and we continue our trip. A smooth ride then we make the turn after Crescent St then we terminate into Cypress.
I get a GO ticket then I go downstairs and I see 4555 so I get on it and its NICE & COLD :-). The bus gets filled up quickly and its a decent trip via Jamaica Av and I see 5 Q56’s within 10 minutes heading back to Van Sinderen Av and at 121 St we bypass 8693 running towards 170 St and then we arrive at Van Wyck then I go to the bus to head back to Cypress so I don’t get on 8373 since the whole crowd went there already so I get on 4335 then we leave right behind the bus in front of us. it’s a nice ride and between the 104 & 111 St stations I saw that a piece of track was removed and there was sparks coming down onto the street and our ride continues and then we arrive at CH at 7:05pm and I go upstairs to wait for the J. A few minutes later it comes, we wait then we depart and I ride it to Broadway Junction then I complete my 2nd round trip by running for 8023 before it departed. So then we missed the turn onto Conway St and so we continue via Broadway then we turn onto Aberdeen St then resume the route and it’s a little slow via Wyckoff but then afterwards its good the rest of the ride and going downstairs to Lorimer St I just missed an L so I have to wait about 8 minutes for the next one :-\. So an R143 arrives and then we head back to Manhattan so I get off at Union Sq to catch the 4.
I just missed the 4 so I have to wait on the hot ass platform on 14 St/Union Sq and a 5 comes but I have to let it go then the next 4 is a 1100/1200’s series R142; it’s my first ride on them J. A quick run via express then to Brooklyn to Atlantic Av. I go to the Q platform and its eerily quiet & empty at first but then it gradually has passengers coming in so then a R68 Q comes in and then I take it home. Enjoy reading the report, all opinions welcome.
The buses I saw on the L shuttle bus:
ENY: 4964,4973,5214,8692,8899,8900,8908,8914,8935,9052
UP: 4764,4782,4865,4867,8681,8683,9086,9092,9176,9316
JG: 4694,8450,8453,8455,8518,8565
FB: 5076,5087,5089,5095,5098,8023,8026,8328,8448,9384,9411,9414,9426
FP: 4663,4669,4709,5069,8004,8012,8015,8534,8557,9142,9164,9171,9461
126: 7536,7543,7550,7552,7558,8216,8218,8247,8285,8289,8445,9217
The buses I saw on the J shuttle bus:
QV: 509,515,534,4928,2935,8373,8376,8389
JAM: 4335,4347,4555,4561,4582,8954,8963,8969,8977,9346,9349,9541,9549,9567
CS: 295,555,563,566,573,640
R40 4227 (Q)
R62 1608 (4)
R143 8170 (L)
RTS 8096 L SHUTTLE
RTS 9442 L SHUTTLE
RTS 8453 L SHUTTLE
R42 4632 (J)
RTS 4555 J SHUTTLE
RTS 4335 J SHUTTLE
R42 4615 (J)
RTS 8023 L SHUTTLE
R143 8230 (L)
R142 1119 (4)
R68 2845 (Q)
4935?
Thank You
Source:
http://www.apta.com/research/stats/bus/busmktmanuf.cfm
GP
-F.
And it does really say something because they don't make artic, CNG or LNG. Gillig's market is shared by everyone, but not everyone's market is shared with Gillig...
GP
Or maybe they have a "Don't Mess With Success" attitude and will keep doing business as usual...and perhaps we WILL see the Phantom continue production through 2050 as I joked in a previous post. After all, TAs don't seem to be tiring of its basic design yet.
-F.
With the RTS, they had more units sold than NABI or Orion... and now they've ditched it, they're down to next to nothing... lol
-F.
What I think Nova's biggest mistake was, is not that they axed the RTS, but rather, they axed the RTS without having a viable replacement. The LFS just isn't a heavy duty bus. It's plagued with design flaws, shoddy workmanship, and a company that now doesnt have the power to back it up.
It's a shame... I was hoping that Prevost and/or Volvo would step in, and help NovaBUS become a great transit bus manufacturer. They have the potential. Take an existing Volvo design, brand it as thier own, and import it into the US and Canada.
Just my 2 cents...
-Tyler-
The most prominent non-ergonomic feature of the RTS (imho, for me) is the location of the wiper controls. 3" out of my reach. Down here in Florida, it rains often during the summer... and a lot of the times, I really need intermittant wipers, but the standard RTS air wipers don't have that feature. Which means every 20-30 seconds, I have to lean forward, and turn them on and then off.
-F.
Personally, I give the LFS credit for trying to have some styling, in the days of the boxy bus. Same with the Invero... It might be controversial, but at least its trying to be different.
I've noticed NABI has started to add some curves... have y'all seen the drawings for thier 60ft BRT? Looks nice. :) Just hope it has the insides to back it up.
-Tyler-
NABI has some really nice designs...not only do I like the 416 and LFW, but they are really going one step further with their newer designs. Bet they will really be something to see on the streets!
-F.
Most buses these days are too boxy... we need more curves like the Invero, SLF, and the future NABI BRT... :)
-Tyler-
GP
PS.I heard from AC Transit's Officials that they will have one Van Hool artic on loan to Disney, is that true? I'm not sure which Disney they were referring, either Orlando or Orange County...
I'd have to guess that it would be Disneyland, but I really don't see how Disneyland would need them. (outside companies perhaps, but not DL itself.)
Actually, the NovaBus stats point out possible inaccuracies with the table. I didn't have the patience to search the actual source to see if it was just U.S.A. or included Canada. I suspect most of NovaBus's 2002 manufactured buses went to Canada. Nevertheless, I am quite sure NovaBus has more than 3 buses on order from properties in Quebec Province as of 1/1/03. I think it was the orders they have in Quebec, that stretch to something like 2006, that encouraged them to stop marketing the LFS in the U.S.A.
BIG AL
BIG AL
They DO take that bus to Roadeos...my three photos of that bus are all at NYCT's 2002 Bus Roadeo...
http://www.geocities.com/rtsgallery
Check there, the links labeled "4396 (Phoenix)" on them...
BIG AL
(If I'm not mistaken, Valley Metro has (or had) RTSs in the 4300 series)
Thank you to all who take the time to answer.
Tony M.
Metrobuses Face Rock Attacks On Streets of Southeast D.C.
Strone-Throwing Incidents Causing Injuries, Damage
By Lyndsey Layton
Washington Post Staff Writer
Sunday, August 3, 2003; Page C01
Freeman Brown was driving a Metrobus just after dawn recently on Minnesota Avenue SE when a boy jumped into his path with a rock in his hand.
Brown had no room to swerve and a heart-pounding dilemma: If he stopped, the boy would have an easy target; if he continued, he might hit the boy. Brown slowed but kept moving; the boy hurled the rock through the windshield and ran. "That's the first time they've run right in front of the bus," he said.
Metrobuses on a half-dozen routes east of the Anacostia River are routinely assaulted by children and teenagers throwing everything from stones to a bowling ball. Drivers have grown accustomed to showers of glass. Passengers have learned to keep the windows closed on even the hottest days and strategically choose seats or duck down on particular streets. At least 11 drivers have been hurt in a one-year period, most reporting eye injuries.
Metro Transit Police didn't realize the extent of the daily barrages until enraged riders called their advisory neighborhood commissioner in May and demanded meetings in their community, just east of St. Elizabeths Hospital.
Police gave this advice last week to Metrobus drivers worried about getting hurt by broken glass: Wear safety goggles behind the wheel.
While rock-throwing at buses is a decades-old annoyance in many cities, longtime Metrobus drivers say the problem here has escalated in the past year. "It's pretty much an everyday occurrence," said Transit Police Lt. Mark Olson, who oversees policing of buses.
Metro could not provide complete statistics on the extent of the problem. The individual Metrobus garages have not consistently tracked the number of incidents or the amount of related injuries and repairs to buses. The agency's central offices may keep some statistics, but a spokesman could not provide them Friday because a computer system was down.
The transit system spends $15,000 a month to repair vandalized buses across the region, including those with broken windows and slashed seats. Phil Wallace, the superintendent for bus maintenance, did not know exactly how much broken windows are costing Metro but said it costs $700 to replace a windshield and $200 to replace a side window.
In the seven months that Donny Lewis has been driving a Metrobus in Southeast Washington, his bus windows have been broken four times by children hurling rocks, bottles and, two weeks ago, a 70-pound chunk of concrete construction debris. One night, a brick shattered the driver's window inches from his head. When he got home, he was still picking bits of broken glass from his brown hair.
On Dec. 10, a teenager hurled a bowling ball through the closed window of a moving Metrobus on Benning Road SE. No one was injured, but plenty of passengers on the W4 route bus were shaken, transit officials said. Three days later, transit police arrested a 16-year-old boy and charged him in the incident with assault with a dangerous weapon, a felony.
Metro officials say most trouble occurs on routes that snake through graffiti-splattered public housing on the east side of the District, where children while away warm nights on broken concrete sidewalks next to fire hydrants that long ago lost their caps.
"To the kids, this is a sport," said Ricardo Henzsley, a Metrobus driver who was recently hit by a yellow paintball when he opened his bus door at a stop on Good Hope Road SE.
Metro officials are reluctant to reroute the buses, saying they serve people who have few alternatives for transportation.
On Monday, a W6 Metrobus turned off Stanton Road SE and followed the route into a narrow canyon lined by three-story apartment buildings. It was a rainy night, but clusters of children, from toddlers to teenagers, were outside, eyeing the illuminated bus as it slowly rolled past. On Jasper Road SE, the bus headed down a hill that locals call "the hole" because it is dark, without streetlights, and lined by overgrown brush on both sides. Drivers say it's an ideal hiding place for children lying in wait with stones in their hands.
"I sit right up here next to the driver, and I always make sure the window's closed," said Vida Kelly, who was riding the W6. "It's horrible, what's going on."
A superintendent at the Metrobus garage in Southeast Washington, where the most troubled routes are based, compiled a partial list that shows 62 rock-throwing incidents and 11 resulting injuries from April 2002 to May 2003.
Transit Police said much of that information was never relayed to them. "We weren't getting the reports," Olson said. In May, a handful of bus riders and residents along the W6 and W8 routes alerted Sandra Seegars, their advisory neighborhood commissioner in the Garfield area of Ward 8. She organized meetings with Metro officials, transit and D.C. police and city officials.
"There's a breakdown in communications somewhere," Metrobus driver Antonio Cain told Transit Police during a meeting about safety at the Southeast bus garage.
Olson has distributed new forms to bus drivers, hoping to collect better data. He said he is stepping up patrols of the troubled routes and has increased the number of undercover officers on certain buses. He said the effort is beginning to pay off and pointed to one arrest of a juvenile July 17.
Metro officials say they also will send new camera-equipped buses on some of the troubled routes in the hope of deterring assaults.
Still, many drivers interviewed said they haven't seen an increased police presence. "They followed me one night and made me feel good," said Lewis, recalling how he was trailed by a police car two months ago. "But that night, nothing happened."
Drivers end up looking after each other, warning other drivers if they've been pelted with rocks. It's a common thread of discussion. When Lewis finished his runs one recent weeknight and ducked into an employee area inside the Anacostia Metro station, the others looked up and one asked, "How many rocks they throw tonight?"
Stephen Barrett, a Metrobus supervisor in Southeast Washington, said buses have always had less security than trains, and since Sept. 11, 2001, it's only become more apparent. "They don't have enough cops, plain and simple," Barrett said. "The emphasis is on rail safety. We kind of take a back seat."
Transit Police Chief Polly Hanson said the bus crackdown is labor-intensive, requiring police in scout cars as well as on buses. She said parents and other agencies -- including the city's Housing Authority, Public Works Department, schools and District police -- share in the responsibility to improve security along the bus routes.
"We're kind of frustrated," Hanson said. "Who really owns this issue? The community owns this issue. These are their children. They have to be taught that it's not appropriate to throw rocks. . . . We take this seriously because it has to do with the quality of life of our employees. But I need to worry about terrorism, and we spend an inordinate amount of time focused on juvenile crime and juvenile disorder."
Metrobus operators who drive the Southeast routes have been attempting to forge friendships with the community. They decorate a bus at Halloween, sing to senior citizens and buy school supplies to distribute free at the Anacostia Metro station in September.
"The employees are trying to make kids realize there are people on the other sides of those windows," Hanson said. "But it's tough."
© 2003 The Washington Post Company
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
The police, as usual, seem to be turning a deaf ear to a community that needs help and are only lightly patrolling things, from what the article says at least. Who knows what the enforcement really is. Metrobus will always be a stepchild to the "pride and joy", Metrorail and it seems pretty callous of the WMATA police chief to say they have other things to do than to look out for the drivers and buses being attacked. I agree that it is a community problem, however, the WMATA police aren't there just to defend the tourists on the Metrorail system.
I'm sure the drivers are scared to death to drive those routes. Cutting service should always be a last resort, but everyone is lucky that nobody has been killed by the debris flying in there. Lets just hope it doesn't go to another level.
Oh, and you forgot Ride-On's Ford Startrans cutaways and pretty much anything from MTA Maryland's fleet.
Please make any corrections if needed in another post, anything can happen in a day or two!
NYCT Queens Division
CASEY STENGEL DEPOT
Number of Buses: 232
1993 Orion V: 101-119, 122, 138, 144, 146, 154, 227-232, 256-316. (91)
1994 Orion V: 400-401. (2)
1995 Orion V: 404, 425, 452-456, 535-542, 544-580. (53)
1996 Orion V: 631-680. (50)
1999 Orion V: 6120-6141. (22)
2000 NF D45S: 996-998. (3)
2002 MCI D4500: 2897-2907. (11)
Stengel Out of Service: 232, 633 (Fire), 668 (Fire).
REPOWERED: 101, 105, 107, 109, 111-114, 116-118, 122, 138, 144, 146, 154, 227-230, 232, 256-290, 295-316.
JAMAICA DEPOT
Number of Buses: 193
2002 MCI D4500: 2850-2878. (29)
1984-85 GMC RTS: 3469, 4019. (2)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4333-PA4336, PA4340, PA4344, 4345-4347, 4352, 4484, 4499, 4555, 4558-4561, 4564, 4568-4571, 4575-4577, 4579-4582, 4584, 4585, 4587, 4589, 4590, 4594. (35)
1996 Nova RTS: 8939-8978, 9051, 9053-9056, 9065, 9070, 9072-9073, 9262-9263, 9264, 9265-9269, 9278-9281, 9285, 9291, 9345-9349. (68)
1998 Nova RTS: 9535-9568. (34)
1999 Nova RTS: 5145-5169. (25)
Out of Service: 4554 (Srap)
Museum: 1059 (1961 GM-TDH 5301)
QUEENS VILLAGE DEPOT
Number of Buses: 245
1995 Orion V: 505-534, 611-630. (50)
2002 MCI D4500: 2879-2896. (18)
1990 TMC RTS: 8352, 8355-8396. (43)
1996 GMC Reman: 7001-7016, 7018-7037. (36)
1996 Nova RTS: 9250-9251, 9252, 9253-9254, 9255, 9256, 9257-9258, 9259-9261, 9286-9290, 9292-9294. (20)
1998 Nova RTS: 9350-9381. (32)
1999 Nova RTS: 4900-4944. (45)
QV’s Out of Service: 4429 (Scrap), 4501 (Scrap).
For Base Shop: 510, 7004, 7021, 8360.
REPOWERED: 7004, 8352, 8355-8358, 8360, 8362-8363, 8365, 8367, 8370-8373, 8375, 8377-8381, 8383-8396.
MUSUEM: 3100 (1956 GMC), 100 (1959 GM-TDH 5301), 5117 (1964 FLX), 4727(1970 FLX)
_______________________________
NYCT Brooklyn Division
EAST NEW YORK DEPOT
Number of Buses: 282
1986 GMC RTS: 4359, 4360, 4393, 4394, 4408, 4410, 4411, 4413, 4414, 4416, 4417, 4418, 4420, 4421, 4422, 4424, 4425, 4428, 4430, 4431, 4543. (21)
1987 TMC RTS: 4629, 4631-4635, 4637, 4638, 4641, 4642, 4872. (11)
1990 TMC RTS: 8090-8097, 8100-8129, 8340-8350. (49)
1994 TMC RTS: 8690-8703. (14)
1996 Nova RTS: 8899-8923, 8925, 8927-8929, 8931-8936, 8938, 9030-9033, 9035, 9036, 9040-9041, 9052, 9057-9064, 9066-9069, 9071, 9074-9076. (62)
1999 Nova RTS: 4945-5024, 5205-5249. (125)
Out of Service: 8923 (Accident).
REPOWERED: 8091, 8093, 8095-8097, 8100-8101, 8108-8110, 8112, 8116-8117, 8120-8121, 8123, 8125-8127, 8340, 8345-8346.
POLICE: PA1712, 3922.
MUSEUM: 313 (1917 Double Decker)
TRAINING: 4949
FLATBUSH DEPOT
Number of Buses: 270
1985 GMC RTS: 4116, 4141, 4214, 4215, 4217. (5)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4300-PA4302, 4437, 4439, 4440, 4441, 4444, 4445, 4446, 4450, 4452, 4458, 4464. (14)
1987 TMC RTS: 4600, 4602, 4604, 4614, 4616, 4618-4628, 4654-4657. (21)
1990 TMC RTS: 8018-8032, 8045, 8066, 8073-8074, 8088, 8130, 8137-8138, 8140, 8142-8146, 8148-8150, 8154, 8156, 8159, 8162-8165, 8317-8339. (62)
1993 TMC RTS: 8401-8439, 8441, 8443-8444, 8447-8448. (44)
1997 GMC Reman: 7000, 7500-7510. (12)
1998 Nova RTS: 9382-9443, 9449, 9455, 9461, 9464. (66)
1999 Nova RTS: 5075-5124. (50)
Out of Service: 4469 (Scrap), 4602, 4627, 8143 (Engine).
REPOWERED: 8021, 8026, 8032, 8045, 8066, 8074, 8130, 8140, 8146, 8148, 8156, 8159, 8162, 8164, 8317, 8319-8322, 8324, 8326-8327, 8330, 8336, and ALL 1993 RTS’.
FRESH POND DEPOT
Number of Buses: 246
1987 TMC RTS: 4659, 4663, 4665, 4666, 4669, 4672-4674, 4676-4679, 4681, 4683, 4684, 4686, 4688, 4695, 4696, 4699, 4701, 4702, 4704-4710, 4712-4714, 4716-4725, 4728, 4729, 4731-4734, 4736-4740, 4743-4749, 4832, 4833, 4890. (63)
1990 TMC RTS: 8000-8017, 8131-8136, 8139, 8141, 8147, 8151-8153, 8155, 8157-8158, 8160-8161, 8166-8171. (41)
1993 TMC RTS: 8520-8522, 8526-8531, 8534, 8536, 8538-8539, 8541, 8549, 8553, 8555-8558, 8560-8561, 8563, 8566. (24)
1996 Nova RTS: 9140-9185. (46)
1998 Nova RTS: 9453-9454, 9457, 9459, 9466, 9469, 9473, 9477-9480, 9483, 9486-9487, 9569-9605. (52)
1999 Nova RTS: 5055-5074. (20)
Out of Service: 4698(scrap), 4715, 4741.
Storage: 3902, 3997, 4367, 4380, 4382, 4390, 4552.
REPOWERED: 8000-8001, 8005-8006, 8012, 8015-8017, 8131-8132, 8135-8136, 8139, 8141, 8152, 8155, 8157, 8160, 8166, 8168-8171 and ALL 1993 RTS’s.
NYC Mobile Bus Command Center: 4149 (1985 RTS-04)
JACKIE GLEASON DEPOT
Number of Buses: 320
1999 NF C40LF: 800-856. (57)
2000 NF C40LF: 857-989. (133)
1994 Orion V CNG: 317. (1)
1995 Orion V CNG: 581-610. (30)
2002 Orion VII CNG: 7560, 7562-7610. (50)
1987 TMC RTS: 4643-4651, 4658, 4660, 4664, 4667, 4668, 4671, 4682, 4693-4694. (18)
1993 TMC RTS: 8449-8450, 8453, 8455-8457, 8460, 8518, 8519, 8523-8525, 8532-8533, 8535, 8537, 8540, 8542-8548, 8550-8552, 8554, 8559, 8562, 8564-8565. (34)
Out of Service: 908, 909, 965, 7560 (@ Vendor)
REPOWERED: ALL 1993 RTS’s.
METRO CARD SALES: 1291, PA2504 (2--1981 GM-RTS-04)
TRAINING: 949, 8518, 8519, 8678, 8679.
MUSEUM: 1201 (1981 GM-RTS 04), 2969/4789 (1948 GMC), 3758 (1963 GM-TDH5303), 5227/4401 (1970 GMC-T6H5305A), 6259 (1956 Mack), 8466 (1966 GM-TDH5303), 8928 (1968 GM-T6H5305A).
Hospital Audiences Bus: PA1848, 4219
ULMER PARK DEPOT
Number of Buses: 282
2000 MCI D4500: 2755-2804. (50)
2001 MCI D4500: 2165-2209. (45)
2002 MCI D4500: 2908-2924. (17)
1985 GMC RTS: 3962, 3969, 3970. (3)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4330-PA4332, 4497. (4)
1987 TMC RTS: 4742, 4753-4756, 4759, 4760, 4762, 4764, 4767-4769, 4771, 4772, 4774, 4775, 4777-4783, 4785-4787, 4789, 4790, 4792, 4854, 4855, 4857-4863, 4865-4867, 4869, 4871, 4874. (45)
1994 TMC RTS: 8671-8689. (19)
1996-98 GMC Reman: 7512, 7513, 7516, 7518-7526, 7528, 7531-7534. (17)
1996 Nova RTS: 9077-9110, 9295-9341. (81)
Out of Service: 2763 (Accident)
SCRAP: 4758, 4791, 4768, 7511, 7514, 7517.
@ Zerega: 2185 (Damaged at WTC--to be re-stored/repainted), 9317
Training: 9100, 9302.
MUSEUM: 236 (1980 Grumman 870)
BUSES STORED IN BROOKLYN
CARLTON YARD: 43 Buses
RTS & Orions: 473, 3918, 3986, 3995, 4045, PA4307, PA4327, 4349, 4379, 4433, 4468, 4478, 4479, 4483, 4528, 4537, 4605, 4640, 4680, 4700, 4703, 4711, 4727, 4730, 4765, 4794, 4812, 4815, 4827, 4847, 7529, 7535, 7541, 7555, 8206, 8223, 8226, 8273, 8351.
MCI: 1908, 1936, 2100, 2139, 2161.
CROSSTOWN STORAGE YARD: 26 Buses
RTS: 3503, 3529, 3893, 3907, 3920, 4045, 4115, 4163, 4165, 4198, 4218, PA4308, PA4309, PA4319, PA4320, PA4324, PA4325, 4362, 4461, 4508, 4538, 4548, 4811, 4813, 4873, 4877, 4883, 4886.
_______________________________
NYCT Staten Island Division
CASTLETON DEPOT
Number of Buses: 339
1993 Orion V: 132, 134, 137, 139, 162, 165, 166-172. (12)
1995 Orion V: 471-472, 474-504. (33)
1999 Orion V: 6142-6326. (185)
1998 MCI 102DL3: 1990-1997, 1999-2039. (49)
1999 MCI 102DL3: 2040-2074. (35)
2002 MCI D4500: 2825-2849. (25)
Out of Service: 168, 2014 (Accident).
ENY Base Shop: 6204, 6291
REPOWERED: ALL 1993 Orions
NYPD: 3307 (ex-4505 1986 GMC-RTS 06)
YUKON DEPOT
Number of Buses: 360
1993 Orion V: 121, 123-131, 137. (11)
1999 Orion V: 6327-6349. (23)
1998 MCI 102DL3: 1860-1989. (130)
1999 MCI 102DL3: 2075-2139. (65)
2000 MCI D4500: 2705-2754. (50)
2001 MCI D4500: 2140-2164. (25)
2001 MCI D4500: 2805-2824. (20)
1985 GMC RTS: 3901, 3949, 3960, 3972, 4129. (5)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4342. (1)
1987 TMC RTS: 4893-4897. (5)
1990 TMC RTS: 8293-8315. (23)
1996 GMC Reman: 7017. (1)
Out of Service: 124, 7017.
At Carlton Yard: 1908, 1936, 2100, 2139, 2161 (To be sent to MCI for repairs).
REPOWERED: 123, 124, 127, 128, 131, 8293, 8296, 8299-8301, 8304-8305, 8310-8313.
Museum: 2151 (1962 GM-TDH-5301), 7340 (1973 FLX-53102-6)
_______________________________
NYCT/MaBSTOA Manhattan Division
126 STREET DEPOT
Number of Buses: 183
1990 TMC RTS: 8172, 8175, 8180, 8181, 8183, 8185, 8188-8191, 8193-8197, 8199, 8200, 8212-8222, 8236-8239, 8249, 8285, 8288-8289. (36)
1993 TMC RTS: 8440, 8442, 8445, 8446, 8451, 8452, 8454, 8458, 8466, 8468, 8469, 8471, 8472, 8477, 8478, 8483, 8487. (17)
1996 Nova RTS: 9213-9215, 9217, 9218, 9220, 9222, 9224, 9226. (9)
1996-98 GMC Reman: 7038-7049, 7537-7540, 7542-7550, 7552-7554, 7557-7559. (31)
2002 NF D60HF: 5526-5558, 5560-5612, 5614-5617. (90)
Out of Service: 7536 (Scrap).
REPOWERED: 8175-8176, 8180-8191, 8194-8195, 8197, 8199, 8212, 8216-8218, 8237-8240, and ALL 1993 RTS
HUDSON PIER DEPOT
Number of Buses: 173
1987 TMC RTS: 4795, 4797, 4798, 4799, 4801, 4802, 4803, 4805, 4806, 4809, 4814, 4817, 4818, 4819, 4821, 4822, 4825, 4826, 4829, 4835, 4841, 4842, 4844, 4845, 4848-4851, 4878. (29)
1990 TMC RTS: 8173, 8178, 8179, 8198, 8201-8205, 8207-8211, 8227-8235, 8241, 8244-8245, 8253-8261. (35)
1993 TMC RTS: 8459, 8461-8465, 8467, 8470, 8473-8476, 8479-8482, 8484-8486, 8488-8517. (49)
1998 Nova RTS: 9488-9534, 9606-9618. (60)
REPOWERED: 8203, 8205, 8229, 8232, 8244-8245, 8253, 8256, 8258-8262, and ALL 1993 RTS’.
MANHATTANVILLE DEPOT
Number of Buses: 252
1998 Orion VI HEV: 6350-6353. (4)
2000 Orion VI HEV: 6359. (1)
1986 GMC RTS: 4486, 4494, 4509. (3)
1990 TMC RTS: 8251-8252, 8262-8272, 8274-8284, 8286-8287, 8290-8292, 8353, 8354. (31)
1995 Nova RTS: 8750-8751. (2)
1996 Nova RTS: 8752-8806, 8994-9028. (90)
1998 Nova RTS: 9619-9654. (36)
1999 Nova RTS: 5025-5054, 5125-5144, 5170-5204. (85)
Out of Service: 8271 (Accident), 8290 (Accident), 8994 (Accident).
REPOWERED: 8220, 8222, 8242, 8246-8247, 8249-8250, 8266, 8269, 8275, 8286, 8290.
MUSEUM: 1000/8602 (1966 Blitz/GMC-TDH-5303); 7144(1956 GMC); 9098(1956 GMC).
MICHAEL J. QUILL DEPOT
Number of Buses: 270
1997 NF D60HF: 1000-1069. (70)
1998 NF D60HF: 1070-1071. (2)
1999 NF D60HF: 5407, 5509. (2)
2002 NF D60HF: 5511-5525. (15)
1993 Orion V: 120, 133, 135-136, 140-143, 145, 147-153, 155-161, 163-164. (25)
1990 TMC RTS: 8224-8225, 8240, 8242-8243, 8246-8250. (10)
1994 TMC RTS: 8600-8670. (71)
1996 Nova RTS: 8924, 8926, 8979-8993, 9029, 9034, 9037-9039, 9042-9050, 9186-9228, 9270-9277, 9282-9284, 9342-9344. (76)
100th STREET DEPOT
Artic Routes: M101-103
Number of Buses: Unknown Number of New Flyer Articulated To Be Assigned
DEPOT SCHEDULED TO OPEN FALL 2003
_______________________________
MaBSTOA Bronx Division
AMSTERDAM DEPOT
Number of Buses: 112
1995 OrionV: 413-424, 426-451, 457-464. (46)
1999 OrionV: 6054-6119. (66)
Training: 461 & 6070.
GUN HILL DEPOT
Number of Buses: 308
1999 NF D60HF: 5250-5406, 5408-5424. (174)
1995 Orion V: 402-403, 405-412, 465-470. (16)
1984-85 GMC RTS: 3906, 3965, 4145. (4)
1986 GMC RTS: 4510. (1)
1990 TMC RTS: 8033-8044, 8046-8065, 8067-8072, 8076-8087, 8089, 8174, 8176-8177, 8182, 8184, 8186-8187, 8192. (59)
1996 Nova RTS: 8888-8898, 9229-9249. (32)
1998 Nova RTS: 9444-9448, 9450-9452, 9456, 9458, 9460, 9462, 9463, 9465, 9467-9468, 9470-9472, 9474-9476, 9481, 9482, 9484-9486. (28).
Museum: 2124 (1938 Yellow Coach Double Decker)
TRAINING: PA2342 (1981 GM-RTS-04); 5250, 9466.
REPOWERED: 8035-8036, 8038-8044, 8046, 8048-8050, 8052, 8054-8057, 8059, 8062, 8069-8072, 8076-8087, 8174.
KINGSBRIDGE DEPOT
Number of Buses: 297
1998 NF D60HF: 1072-1109. (38)
1999 NF D60HF: 5425-5508. (84)
1984 GMC RTS: 3474. (1)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4326, 4399, 4400, 4402, 4404, 4449, 4451, 4453, 4517, 4520. (10)
1987 TMC RTS: 4609-4612, 4615, 4843, 4853. (8)
1996 TMC RTS: 8807-8887, 8930, 8937, 9111-9139. (112)
1997 GMC Reman: 7551. (1)
1998 Nova RTS: 9655-9699. (45)
Out of Service: 5492 (Accident).
SCRAP: 3562, 4372, 4601 (@ Nimco), 4606, 4613, 4840
Training: 8854-8856, 9655
MOTHER CLARA HALE DEPOT
Number of Buses: 139
1993 Orion V: 173-226, 233-255. (77)
1999 Orion V: 6000-6055. (56)
1999 Orion VI HEV: 6354. (1)
2000 Orion VI HEV: 6355-6358. (4)
2002 Orion VII IHEV: 6365. (1)
Out of Service: 202, 241, 252.
@ ENY Base Shop: 226, 239, 244, 6007, 6035.
REPOWERED: 173-174, 177, 179-194, 196-211, 213-221, 223-226, 234-246, 248-255.
WEST FARMS DEPOT
Routes: BX6, BX8, BX11, BX14, BX15, BX17, BX19, BX21, BX27, BX31, BX35, BX36
Number of Buses: Unknown Amount To Be Assigned
DEPOT SCHEDULED TO OPEN FALL 2003
_______________________________
Provided by TT Staff Member, M.H.
Regards,
Trevor Logan
TransiTALK
FB: 8020,8021,8026,8027,8045,8066,8073,8074,8130,8137,8138,8140,8146,8148,8156,8159,8164,8317,8319-8322,8324,8327,8330,8336-8338
ENY: 8091,8094-8097,8100,8101,8106,8109-8112,8116,8117,8120,8121,8123,8125-8127,8340,8345,8346
FP: 8000,8001,8005,8006,8012,8016,8017,8131,8133,8135,8136,8139,8141,8147,8152,8155,8157,8160,8166,8168-8171
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Regards,
Mark Valera
And thanks for the roster, I've been hurting for one of these for some time.
BIG AL
#175, #178, #195, #212, #222, and #247 are ALL repowered...that I can tell you for a fact...
Incognito
Mark
BIG AL
Any thoughts.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Mark
BIG AL
Sorry for the delay but NICE JOB!!!! You deserve a pat on the back!!!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!!
Don't even stress it people are gonna pick it apart. Hell I'm being picked apart by Barry about the assignments which was part of your roster. As always I put "Info Subject To Change" based on the fact we know the TA changes things on a daily basis. But I think some people don't pay that any mind and just pick pick pick!
It's a great roster, because if it wasn't, I wouldn't be hosting it on TransiTALK. Good Rosters & Good Sites Go Together, Keep Up The Great Work.
Regards,
Trevor Logan
TransiTALK
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YROK CITY!
#9110 - B6
#9178 - B6 - LTD
2002 Orion VII CNG: 7560-7684. (125) to JG
2003 Orion VII CNG: 7685-7809. (125) to the new West Farms Depot
2002 NF D60HF: 5510-5769. (260) to 126, MJQ, OHS, KB and CS
2003 Orion VII Hybrid: 6365-6429. (65) to MCH
2003 Orion VII Hybrid: 6430-6494. (65) to QV
2003 Orion VII Hybrid: 6495-6559. (65) to FP
2003 Orion VII Hybrid: 6560-6624. (65) to ENY
2003 Orion VII Hybrid: 6625-6689. (65) Depot to be announced
Regards,
Trevor Logan
BIG AL
What do they call that kind of list again?
BIG AL
But honestly.. do you really think I'm looking forward to a fleet of Orions? I picked QV over CS because of the RTS. If it were up to me, I'd drive the unrepowered 8000's forever (when they were in decent shape, of course).
BIG AL
The UTC current roster, showing assignments, is dated 7/25/03. The site is at: http://www.utcny.org/
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Your information on assignemnets on the Hybrid is wrong.
Only the first 125 have been assigned to Queens Village and Mother Clara Hale.
Since the balance will not be in till 2005 a good 18 months from now no assignments have been made
This is as per the July MTA Transit Authority Sub Committee Report
Thank You
Regards,
Trevor Logan
Thank You
However, the delivery of Orion 7 HEV's are scheduled to be delivered to MCH and QV starting in October or November. That much I do know. Stay tuned for all other stuff like Brooklyn and Stengel receiving new stuff.
Mark
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
The police, as usual, seem to be turning a deaf ear to a community that needs help and are only lightly patrolling things, from what the article says at least. Who knows what the enforcement really is. Metrobus will always be a stepchild to the "pride and joy", Metrorail and it seems pretty callous of the WMATA police chief to say they have other things to do than to look out for the drivers and buses being attacked. I agree that it is a community problem, however, the WMATA police aren't there just to defend the tourists on the Metrorail system.
I'm sure the drivers are scared to death to drive those routes. Cutting service should always be a last resort, but everyone is lucky that nobody has been killed by the debris flying in there. Lets just hope it doesn't go to another level.
I went to see the progress of the Swing, and I was taken aback at what I saw. First off, the block between Bridge and Pratt sts was DRENCHED IN SUNLIGHT! The el structure was demolished, only the part covering the intersection of Bridge, Bustleton and Frankford Avenue still remaining. I think that will be gone but not immediately.
Second, I saw a test train going in and out the new station, testing switches, clearences and signals. In addition, I see the workmen stating the process of last minute preparations for tommorow`s opening.
After seeing this terminal all of my life in its original form, it will take a lot of getting used to the new sight at the FTC. I will be there tommorrow to check out the terminal on its first rush hour.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I had to go back to work(I was on vacation last week), so I took my usual trip down Minnesota Avenue, past the station. As I approached the intersection, that is when I saw it. I didn't have a good view of it at first it was a bit far away, but it looked like it was a 4200. As I got close to it(no city traffic lights to stop me), there it was a second orange LED bus, 4200, one of the last 1998 Orion Vs to be delivered, along with 3900. So there you have it, there are now at least two Orange Destination signed 1998 Orion Vs rolling out there.
Wayne
I saw 4309 enough times on the 42 this past week not to mention Chris's picture of it on Western Avenue pretty much proves it hasn't gone anywhere.
It was strange seeing ex Arlington buses 9608 and 9613 sitting in the Annex. If the repowers are as bad as Wes and everyone else is saying, they can have them!
Oh, and you forgot Ride-On's Ford Startrans cutaways and pretty much anything from MTA Maryland's fleet.
I don't mean to nit-pik, but if the service is effective, who cares whether or not it is incompetently run!
Use the way I suggested on SubTalk, NJ Transit route 62 to Newark Penn Station then PATH train from there. $2.60 one-way.
The 302 wasn’t much better than the 62; the only difference was that it used McCarter Highway instead of Broad Street (no local stops, but it got caught at every traffic light) and that it cost $4 one-way. Mostly used Flxibles, but rarely the occasional MCI cruiser. The privately-operated Airlink predecessor used far more comfortable jitneys.
The restriction reads as follows:
RESTRICTION: Passengers at
Terminal A, B or C traveling to New
York MUST use Olympia Bus Lines.
B82#4543
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Q58
#9464 still have Flatbush Depot logo, #9467, #9480, #9483.
Q59
#9470, #9478, #9482
Also some 80xx's buses are not done with repowered.
#8002, #8008, #8160.
Peace
David
PS: I will be back @ Fresh Pond Depot this thursday on Q54 line.
I was at the opening of the new Frankford Terminal early this morning. As promised, buses and trains began operating from FTC shortly after 4:00am.
I caught the last 104 bus out of West Chester at around 1:09am (Rt 104; 5409/4218 block). Got into 69 St at 1:38am, 13 minutes early. I'm not complaining, but that's way too early, even for a late night run. Plus, the driver nearly passed by me at New/Market Sts in West Chester (this driver, a total bitch, I might add, routinely refuses to drop anyone off near the YMCA, despite the fact that almost every other driver stops there, but I digress).
At 69 St, waited about an hour for the 65 (7198/5201 block) towards Wissahickon Transfer Center, which departed at 2:30am. I'm still surprised that SEPTA uses artics for OWL service on the 65, but what do I know? Got to Wissahickon at 2:49am. I then caught the R bus (5338/2701 block) to Bridge-Pratt, leaving at 3:08am. We arrived at Bridge-Pratt at 3:34am, which was about 4 minutes early, but it's not like the driver was speeding along Roosevelt Blvd. She was actually making an effort to stay on schedule by not going to fast on the Blvd, butit didn't quite work out that way.
I then spend the next 3+ hours tracking buses into and out of the new FTC building. Details will be posted here and at my website.
My first trip out of the new FTC departed at 6:50am, arriving at 69 St at 7:28am. I killed a little time at 69 St before returning to West Chester on the 8:05am 104 Express (3375/4225 block). It seems that Red Arrow relegates all the Neos onto the 104 during the morning rush hours, even though most of those buses literally struggle going up West Chester Pike from State to Pennock Rds.
And now, some triviality from the new FTC building (of course I was going to be there; you didn't think I'd miss this):
The first passenger passed through the El turnstiles at 4:20am and was interviewed by at least two TV stations (6 ABC and Fox 29).
At 4:39am, the first revenue train departed from FTC, running closed-door express to 15 St/City Hall; the first full all-stops revenue train departed at 4:49am; the first eastbound revenue train into the new FTC from Center City arrived at 5:24am.
First bus arrival and departure from the new bus berths: 5549 (Rt 20: Frankford Terminal via Keswick/1052 block) arrived at 3:58am; this same bus was the first to depart from the new berths 4 minutes later as a Rt 14 to Neshaminy Mall.
3 minutes later, the R (5292/2704 block) departed for Wissahickon Transfer Center, making it the first bus to depart from the Bridge St bus berths inside the complex (adjacent to Frankford Depot).
First bus to depart from the bus berths on Bridge St proper: 3178 (66/2052 block); even without the budget crisis, SEPTA would not have been able to operate trackless trolleys on any of the Frankford lines (59, 66, 75) due to the renovation of the Bridge St headhouse.
First bus to depart from the FTC with a bike rack in use: 5555 (14/1053 block), as the 4:30am to Langhorne.
First bus to depart from the Pratt St bus berths: 3279 (3/2201 block) at 4:39am (scheduled for 4:35am).
First bus to depart from the east berths at new terminal building (these berths face Frankford Av): 5582 on the 58 (1353 block) to Bustleton/County Line.
* Never mind that the 100th Street site has been a depot for decades.
* Never mind that all Uptown depots were first used as such when Harlem was white.
* Never mind that another site (Amsterdam) will close at the same time.
* Never mind that the buses use clean diesel technology.
Oh, well. Some folks don't want to be confused by facts.
The Series 40 is just a crappy ass engine to begin with, combined with the lack of ventilation in the Nova LFS... but yet they don't overheat too terribly often.
LYNX has about 10 CNG buses on thier Lymmo... haven't heard about any problems with them and the climate.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
We had a bunch of Gilligs out here in southern California where there is little or no humidity, just a lot of heat. And we had overheating problems all the time. Once those buses were re-engines with DD 50's, the heat problem went away.
B1-#9341-NOVABUS
Mark
Send an IM to AIM user L2 Nine for an invitation.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I also read on Commuterpage.com the new alignments for the 16 line on Columbia Pike. They are going to use specially marked low floor buses on some of the routes, keep a couple routes originally to be eliminated (16L and 16W) and have ART only run the neighborhood routes. (Formerly 16S, 16U and 16X) I guess the 'specially marked' low floors will have banners similar to the ones on the NextBus Orion VI's used for the 38B. Several routes are going to terminate at Pentagon City, or at least swing up Hayes Street and stop at the station. Should be interesting to see how that affects the hotel shuttles/tour buses/people picking up and dropping off folks at the metro. Its a disaster there right now, so there is going to have to be stepped up enforcement of the No Standing signs in order for this to work.
Landover does seem to be the division that is getting picked over. I'm waiting to see if their Orion VI's come over to FMR with the start of the revamped 16 line.
It seems like Annex is a dumping ground for the random array of equipment. They have buses from just about every division sitting there! LOL
Man I hope they don't pull any of the Orion VIs, I love them things, they really haul. The total fleet pull out from Landover started witht the 8700s about 5 years ago, then the 9200s and then to the buses I mentioned. At one time Landover had 4254-86, now it is 4258-74 a loss of 17 buses, not to mention losing half of the 9300s to Royal only after two years in service (Landover originally had 9350-69). Not to mention the 3 NABIs Landover had, and the 8 3900s they had also.
I didn't realize Landover used to have the 9350's. Those are scattered all over the place now. I see some at Montgomery and some at Royal. I'm thinking 9360 is a FMR bus, but it may be an Arlington one since we saw ex Landover 8822 there the other day as well. The 1Z splits divisions and since I didn't notice it until it was passing, I didn't see the run number.
I also saw 4393, B30 bus, doing a B27 run leaving New Carrolton. I also saw freshly out of the repower shop 9654.
Also saw an ex CUE Orion I, still with its green stripes, but no "CUE" lettering heading East on 50 in Fairfax just about to get on the Beltway South. Not sure where it was going, but maybe the scrapyard in the sky?
Fairfax Hires European Firm To Run Buses (Washington Post; 30 July 03)
1]7:59 am - Got on the MFSE at 8th st. Sat in the Railfan seat had an uneventful ride to Margaret-Orthodox Station when the bugs in the new signalling system came out and delayed trains into the FTC.
8:45 am - Despite the annoying, short sprinkles, my first obser-
vation of the FTC is quite impressive. It seems that the bus traffic moves more smoother than before, except for the arrival point of the 3 and 5. I wished that the City would have quickly re-paved Frankford Ave in front of the terminal. The street is really rutted and bumpy. I then ran into an old friend of mine and we talked for about 20 minutes, then I looked around the terminal. The platform is REALLY WIDE for a El station, and the terminal building is beautiful inside, yet very funcional.
2]9:30 am - 5074 - NABI - Rt. 14 - Run up Roosevelt Blvd to Neshaminy Mall. Saw mostly NABI's on this route with a couple of New Flyers and a lone Neoplan on the 14. At Neshaminy Mall, had to go clear on the other side of the Mall to go potty. Good thing the next bus didn't leave for a half hour, it took about 20 minutes for the round trip to the bathroom.
3]10:30 am - 4517 - Eldorado - Rt. 127 - The ride from Neshaminy to Trenton is a 75 minute marathon that gives you the grand tour of Eastern Bucks Co. That and the BOUNCY ride of the 30 foot bus makes this route an endurance ride.
4] Off at Trenton Station, went to Roy Rogers for a Bacon Cheeseburger, then waited for a NJT bus to arrive, in the meantime I took a picture of the Trenton LRT Station across the street from the train station.
5]12:15 pm - 1898 - Flxible Metro D - Rt. 609 - Rode from Trenton Station to Quakerbridge Mall. This Flxible ran soooo smooth, I couldn't beleive I was riding a NJT bus.
6]12:45 pm - off at Quakerbridge Mall. Saw a "baby RTS" (25xx) waiting to go on the 605. After it loaded and left, the next bus arrived before I got the chance to get comfortable.
7]12:50 pm - 1895 - FlxMetD - Rt.603 - Rode from Quakerbridge mall to Trenton.
8]Got off at State and Warren in downtown Trenton. The area looks quite busy during Lunch hour (About 1:25 pm), despite those annoying quickie sprinkles.
9]1:30 pm - 2762 - Nova RTS - Rehabbed model on the 609(Again!). The rehabbed RTS has the orange Twin Vision signs on them. Hamilton is the only Southern Division garage that has the 26-2700 series Nova RTS's. Took short ride to Trenton Station. Missed 1:36 R7 train so I had to wait for the 1:55 127 bus. At Trenton i saw a MCI D4000 (7556) and a D4500 (8266) back to back. 7566 was on the 409, and 8266 was on the 310 (Great Adventure).
10]1:55 pm - 4528 - Another Helldorado - Rt 127 - another long-drawn-out ride back to Neshaminy. Slept through this ride as the bus was going through a shower.
11]3:37 pm - Back at Neshaminy Mall, waited for the 14 back to FTC. Hoped to get a Flyer, but got a NABI - 5077 - with purple seats. I wonder why so many of SEPTA buses in the Northeast have windows that are so badly scratched up? Maybe is because of all of the uncouth bastards that ride them to and from school.
12]4:25 pm - Back at the FTC for the first afternoon rush hour. Decided to take a quick trip on the R to test out the other way out of the terminal (through what used to be the trolley coach yard). If the TT's return, where will they be stored at here? SEPTA will need 2 lanes of the yard for exiting buses on the 8, 24, 26, and R.
Got on 5531, rode to Castor Ave, went through another sprinkle then got on 5506 back to the FTC (both New Flyers).
13]5:15 pm - Went inside the Terminal building, noticed some SEPTA engineers look like dumb-asses at the non-working escalators. What is it with SEPTA and escalators? They seem to go together like oil and water. SEPTA must have an allegy to escalators in the Subway system, whenever they touch one the fucker breaks, and it will never work again......
14]5:25 pm - MFSE - Car 1038 - got on the train leaving from track 2 (EB track) noticed how extremely smooth the train takes the switch. I rode to Margaret-Orthodox, crossed over and rode another inbound train to FTC (car 1063). Had the same signal problem as this morning though. Guess it takes time to get the bugs out.
15]5:44 pm - After getting off the the EB train (which arrived smoothly on the EB track), I crossed over the roomy platform and got on a WB train on Track 1. I like the straight into the terminal instead of the sharp curve and switch of the old Bridge Pratt Station. It should let the trains enter and leave the terminal more quickly, once they get the signal bugs out. I then got on the WB train (All stops to 69th St) car # 1015 for the trip home.
All in all the first day at the FTC was a smashing success.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
1. PG County The Bus has started delivering packages to the Beltsville & Calverton (My home community) areas
2. The driver of this ODV was itching for some Wendy's food.
I'm looking to trade for farecards from other cities, such as CTA (Chicago) or even some Metrocards I don't have.
If there is anything you need that I may have, please respond to my e-mail and not this site. Just click on the blue Bill Newkirk and describe what you need. I'll see if I have it or not.
Bill "Newkirk"
Trade.
Bill "Newkirk"
Can anyone tell me what the routes in question marks were at one time? Thanks.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Wayne
Hope this helps
Thank You
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
WMATA didn't "reject" the Orion Vs, they just couldn't pay for them.
and they have one of my pictures on there, the second one on the page...
Incognito
Cool! I left the print edition at work; I don't see a credit in the electronic version :(
If it does, what does it say?
If not, I'm gonna have to give them an e-mail about that...
Incognito
spending billion s to find Osama but not shelling out for decent busses..something doesn't add up.
I don't follow. The article's point is that the hybrid-electric experiment was a success, resulting in NYCT's own order of 325 Orion VII Hybrids, and leading other transit properties to try out the technology. I didn't see Osama mentioned at all...
David
The above is why it makes very little sense to spread the hybrid buses out among multiple depots. It will cost to much to train mechanics at multiple depots to be experts in servicing a new engine technology plus the cost of spare parts will big time as multiple spare parts pools need to be kept at multiple depots. The hybrids should operate out of one depot.
B1-#4862-TMCRTS
B64-#4775-TMCRTS
B1-#9340-NOVABUS
#9178 - B4
#9180 - B6 - LTD
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
1)Arundel Mills Mall(probably the B32 or A30)
2)Columbia(terminating at Columbia Mall)
3)When the final leg of the Loundoun County extension opens, maybe a route or two might go out there.
4)Annapolis (more if the orange line is extended to Bowie, a line might be probable)
5)Baltimore (it wouldn't take that long to get up there, the B30 takes about 30 minutes from Greenbelt.
COLUMBIA: MTA Maryland already operates service between Silver Spring and Columbia - the 915 and 929 via US 29 during rush hours (there is some limited off-peak weekday service on the 929) and the 995 via I-95.
1979-1981 Thomas Saf-T-Liner-No comment
1985 Blue Bird-Seriously no comment, especially since this was the only bus I drove that I was involved in an accident with
1986 Flxible Metro B-Awesome buses, especially the Detroit Diesels
1987 Flxible Metro B-Same as above
1991 Flxible Metro B-My favorite in the batch. Steering and acceleration was excellent). 40 footer was easier to drive than a car.
-F.
1979-80 RTS 03 - For thier age, not bad
1980-86 RTS 04 - Decent
1987-94 RTS 06 - Decent... the '92s and '94s are the best
2000 Nova LFS - pure crap
2001 Nova LFS - mostly crap
2002 Nova LFS - still crappy, but not as much as before.
2001 VanHool C2045 - Nice handling coach, just took it out for a test drive, though.
GMC:
PD4104
PD4107
P8M4108A
PD4903
P8M4905A
Old Look TDH & TDM 4801
New Look TDH/T6H 4517-4519-4521-5301-5303
New Look SDH/SDM/S8M 5301-5302-5303-5304
Flxible:
45096-6-1
45102-8-1
53102-8-1
Gillig Phantom:
3596TA6V92
4096TA6V92
4096TBL10 (also some re-engined with Cummins C8.3 and DD50's)
4096TB6V92
New Flyer:
D40HF-D40LF-D60LF
Mercedes:
O305D minibus
Neoplan:
N116/3 Cityliner
N117/3 Double deckers
Jetliners (whatever model they were....)
Van Hool:
T800
MCI:
MC-7 stick shift
MC-8 stick shift and automatic
MC-9 stick shift and automatic
96A3 stick shift and automatic
102A3 stick shift and automatic
102C3 automatic
I don't think they ever had round wheels....you'd ALWAYS be bouncing up and down.
-F.
See, I love that enclosure shell... Of course, we at Disney don't have fare boxes, but the shell (especially with the bar) provides just the right amount of separation from me and everyone else. It also gives me something to hang onto when I take the corners... hehe I also like to be able to put my stuff down under the seat, and have it hidden.
The Nova LFS doesn't have that barrier, and the front vestibule area is just so open. I feel like I'm exposed to the world... Not sure I like that.
-Tyler-
GMC:
TDH5304
SDM4501
SDM4502
RTS-II (03)
RTS-II (04)
Flxible Hi-Liner
Eagle 10
And if they count....the trams at Disneyland!!
1982 MCI 9A -- Slow
1987 MCI 9B -- Faster than the 9As
1988-1989 Flxible Metro B -- Second runner up to my MCI Classics
1994 Flxible Metro D - Lets just say Im not a Cummins fan
1994-1999 MCI DL3 -- Cadillac of buses
1999 NOVA RTS - Again Im not a big fan of Cummins engines.
2000 MCI D4000 -- Very good, love the Jake Brake.
Liberty Lines Express
1988-1989 MCI Classic -- My favorite buses, love the sound of the DD6v92 in these buses. Very dependable and fun to drive.
Jamaica Buses Inc.
1985-1986 GMC RTS -- Decent running buses
1994 TMC RTS -- Sensitive brakes
Peace,
Kevin
Wayne
-F.
Wayne
Of course, some of the Flxible Metro's had REALLY loud engines. They sounded like the Eagle 10's we had. When they took off there was theis DEEP base sound and when the bus passed it sounded like something was frying in the back, like bacon, it's hard to describe. These buses were LOUD, you could hear them like 10 blocks away.
Off the top of my head; 2201, 2211, 2216, 2221, 2233, 2244, 2246, 2247, 2311, 22350, 5353, and 2354 had these engines and a few RTS as well.
1968 GMC TDH-5304 Fishbowl from DC Metro
1980 Grumman Flxible 870 from NJ Transit (Ex NYCT)
1981 GMC RTS-04 from NYCT
1983 MCI MC9A Cruiser from NJ Transit/Red & Tan
1985 MCI 96A3 Cruiser from Red & Tan
1985 Volvo B10M Articulated from NJ Transit
1987 MCI MC9B Cruiser from NJ Transit/Red & Tan
1988 MCI 96A3 Cruisre from Red & Tan
1988 Orion 01.508 from Transport of Rockland
1989 MCI A6A2 from Transport of Rockland
1989 Flxible METRO-B from NJ Transit
1989 Eagle AE-20 Cruiser from NJ Transit
1991 TMC RTS-06 from NYCT
1991 Orion 01.503 from Ride On
1994 Flxible METRO-D from NJ Transit
1995 Gillig Phantom from Transport of Rockland
1997 MCI 102-DL3 from Coach USA
1997 New Flyer D60HF Articulated from NYCT
1997 Orion 05.501 from DC Metro/Coach USA
1998 Neoplan AN116 Cityliner from Coach USA
1998 Gillig Phantom from Transport of Rockland
1998 MCI 102DL3 Cruiser from Transport of Rockland
1999 New Flyer D45SHF ITV Viking from NYCT
1999 New Flyer D30LF from Houston METRO
1999 Nova RTS-06 from NJ Transit/Coach USA
2000 Prevost XL-II Le Mirage from Coach USA
2000-03 MCI D4000 Cruiser from NJ Transit/Red & Tan
2003 MCI D4500 Cruiser from NJ Transit/Red & Tan
There is so much more but I'm getting tired of typing!
Regards,
Trevor Logan
-F.
-1991 Gillig Phantom 35' # 9108 (Roanoke, VA);6V92TA, HT-748
-1987 Flxible Metro B 40'# 2615 (Blacksburg); 6V71, V730
-1987 Flxible Metro B 40'# 2616 (Blacksburg); see above
-1998 New Flyer D35 LF # 1807 (Blacksburg); Series 50/B400R?
-1991 Gillig Phantom 35' # 9105 (Roanoke); 6V92TA, HT-748
-1998 New Flyer D40 LF # 1813 (Blacksburg); Series 50/B400R?
-1979 Grumman 870 A 35' # 186 (Roanoke); 6V71, V730
-2001 Gillig Phantom 35' # 0102 (Roanoke); Cummins ISL/Voith
All were fun to drive except for the D35 LF; BOY what a nightmare that was. My favorites were the Flxibles..those were my babies!
-F.
-Gillig Phantom 40' x 102" 1986,1989,1994,1997,1998 Cummins/Voith; Detroit/Allison; Detroit/Voith
-Gillig Low Floor 40' x 102" 1998,2000,2001,2002 Cummins/Voith; Detroit/Voith
-Gillig Low Floor 35' x 102" 1998 Detroit/Allison
-Orion II 26' x 96" 1998 Cummins
-Orion V 40' x 102" 1992 Detroit/Voith
-New Flyer D60HF 60' x 102"(articulated) 2000 Detroit50/AllisonB500R
-Dupon Trolley (Thomas Bus chassis) 1998 Cat/Allison
-Blue Bird CS 39’ 1996 Allison
-Van Hool T840 40’ x 102” 1993 Cummins/Allison
-Van Hool T845 & T945 45’ x 102” 1993,1996 Cummins/Allison
Not too bad for a 23 year old with less than 2 years behind the wheel, eh? I left out the light duty garbage like Goshen Coach, Champion, etc. Very soon I'll be adding MCI 102DL3, MCI 102C3 and eventually MC-9 when they're back on the insurance next month. Just starting out at a new job.
Mike
Here's My List:
1980 870 series Flx - I love the way these babies took turns, but however they could have used a lot more power.
1985 Volvo artic suburban - easy to manuver but brakes suck, and leave your legs in utter pain and the driver's seat sucks. All I can say is I have bad memories of driving this bus as a rookie esp 9202 ask Troy, This bus could only go 15mph up 495 with 80 people on it, with the a/c off in the hot summer hell.
1989 Flx Metro B - This has to be the best bus I have ever driven. The sound of the DD 6V92TA in these buses is off the hook. I think the 6V92TA is a much better sounding engine in a Flxible Body. Esp when the engine is loud. That is why I am always fond of these. NJT has the best sounding one to me. My baby 3562 REPRESENTS This Catagory!
However, I will admit some of these buses do suck. Esp when the a/c is on and it loses a lot of power.
1994 Flx Metro D - All I can say is I wish we had more of these instead of the Novabus RTS's. They take turn like a dream and hand like a dream. And I love that bar for turning, you can whip these buses round and round.
1995 NovaBus RTS 06A - All I can say is that some are better than others. Since they started to Rehab these. They have become more umcomfortable to the tall and heavy set drivers. I am medium built and I am still uncomfortable in these. That is why I am always driving the unrehabbed 2769. It moves, its got power, and I am doing the 84 this pick, so I am taking what I am comfortable in.....LOL
However,I did have a Flxible on the 84 not too long ago, All I can say is man I wish I could drive one everyday on this line.
2000-03 MCI D4000 - Very Excellent bus to drive, nice and smooth and great on the Highway. Don't Forget that mode button, "Right Trevor"
I love that DD Engine, it is nice and smooth and the jake brake is awesome.
2002-2003 MCI D4500 - Once again nice bus to drive, Better than driving that volvo crap on the 167 line. Love the Jake Brake and love the speed and raise the rear function. Over all a great bus.
Tony M.
NJT Bus Operator
Meadowlands Garage.
Tony M.
Meadowlands Garage
For the Volvo wow only 15mph ouch!
Tony M.
Meadowlands Garage.
Not too much waiting time for the 76 to come so I get on 635 and I notice that there are quite a few straight stretches so we got some decent speed there. On Hillside Av the rain started and it got pretty heavy at one point but luckily I brought my umbrella with me and I miss a Q77 so I decide to ride it to 169 St then cross over & wait. Its 5:05pm and I see a lot of NYCT buses along with LI Buses and I saw 4 Diesel Orions, including one on the N6; been a while since I saw that. Anyway 9262 pulls in and its good on Hillside and on Francis Lewis Blvd but in the 100’s it got very slow making every stop but I enjoyed the suburban seating so I get off at Murdock Av to catch the Q83. I’m waiting and I see a LTD but can’t take that since I was going to Jamaica Av so I wait for the Springfield bus and 9292 pulls in and its nice and cool. I took the short trip up north on Springfield and when I got off, I see that the road is very awful, full of water holes mixed with dirt man it NEEDS a repave! I see a Q27 pull out and since it got caught at a red light, I run for it and I catch 303 and the female B/O is pretty attractive hehehe ;-). Anyway I go to 73 Av to catch the Q75. When I see the schedule I was like oh shit its every ½ hour so I was like damn and I would have to wait 20 minutes but the time seemed to go by rather quickly and I see about 10 QM1A’s, all Classics & Orions.
I get 617 and some of the seats are as flat as pancakes but I didn’t really care and the ride is good and its smooth until we reach 188 and Hillside where we get stuck for about 10 minutes. Apparently there was a minor car accident in front of the gas station so then when we finally made the turn I saw 4-5 Q17’s right behind each other and I get off at 179 St to get the F to head to Roosevelt [you’ll see just now, what do you think I‘m going to do? ;-D]. I just miss a R46 and a next F came right after and the platform was sweltering man >:-(. We depart 3 minutes later and I ride via Hillside and QB express to Roosevelt to catch the Q33. I help a lady carry her stroller up the stairs then going outside I missed one so I had to wait the 10 minutes for the next one to load up and then afterwards we depart. We do OK via 83 St and I was like ok I’m gonna ride the M60 so we’re going and I see the Triboro yard and lots of Classics and RTS’s including the CNG RTS’s which seemed to be sitting there collecting dust; maybe?! Anyway the 33 ride continues and I go around the loop before getting off at the Delta terminal to catch the M60 heading back to Harlem. A few minutes pass by and I see the M60 coming towards the stop and I get ex Quill bus 5174 and then we’re off. W ego through the terminals and it’s a cool rode via Astoria Blvd, not making too many stops and then we head onto the Triboro and we were going no more than 25-30mph most of the way and then we reach Manhattan and I get off at Lexington Av to catch the train.
I go downstairs and I wait a couple of minutes before a R142 5 train comes in and take it via Lexington Av express to BB-City Hall to wait for the 4 since <5> service to Brooklyn had already ended for the day. I was going to take the J/M-B39-B46 LTD-B8 but I decided to just take the 4 to the Q home. The 4 was right behind so its another 142 and I go to Atlantic Av to get the Q as the last legs of my Queens trip. I just catch the Q diamond and the R40 I was in was C-O-L-D! :-) then I get off at my train stop and then I hop on 929 and head home. I was hoping to get to ride the Q79 but I remembered that the bus ended at 6:30 so there was really no chance of riding it. Anyway I hope you enjoyed my story!
Orion VII 7583 B8
R40 4227 Q Diamond
R46 5960 (F)
Orion 306 Q74
RTS 4934 Q88
Orion 635 Q76
RTS 9262 Q77
RTS 9292 Q83
Orion 617 Q75
R46 5824 (F)
TC RTS 733 Q33
RTS 5174 M60
R142 6764 (5)
R142 7134 (4)
R40 4380 Q Diamond
NF 929 B8
Next time, suggest to the driver s/he check to be sure the wheelchair key switch is in the off position.
:-)
BIG AL
BTW - if you did stop in, do you remember who, if any, you interacted with?
Just curious... ;-)
I was so tired when I got back on Sunday Night, I forgot to post my observations, which was easy.....ONLY ONE BUS! In Scranton, I saw Gillig Phantom 35TB102 #215 with aqua blue, white with yellow and orange stripes. The bus had a DD 50 Series engine and a orange LED destination sign. I did not read the destination sign though but I got a pic of it. I'll check it out because I have a habit of taken pics that to me are close but it turns out they are far away. The MALL I saw this bus at was off PA State Road #6 I believe (not to far from I-81). Also, I saw a bunch of bus stops in Scranton and along PA State Road #611 (East Stroudsburg area).
I took MARTZ Bus Lines up to Scranton Bus Terminal. I was on MCI 102-DL3 #561 (looked very similiar to MTA NYCT MCIs). When I came out of the PABT on W 41st St...an X22 bus (NYCT MCI 102-DL3 #2083) was cutting the rest of the buses off by trying to get into the Lincoln Tunnel off W 41st St and into the tunnel. I saw Coach USA/Red & Tan Flxible Metro-B #3225 broken down at the ramp (where NJT buses come down into the tunnel) into the Lincoln Tunnel. The ride up as good despite al the RAIN!!! Especially on I-280 from "The Caldwells" to MT. Pocono in PA.
I observed some NYCT buses and MTA Long Island buses as well. I'll post those in my next post.
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
Chapter 11 Choo Choo used to live in Scranton, I am sure he knows it.
Viewmont Mall? That one is on US 6 Business. Lots of COLTS service there.
BTW, the mall you're referring to is called the Viewmont Mall, which is near Carbondale. This is not to be confused with the Mall at Steamtown, which is right near the Trailways terminal in downtown Scranton.
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
B44 Limited Nova #5090
M15: The Route, self explainatory
2nd Ave/Allen: via. (the main streets the bus runs. So the M15 runs mostly on 2nd ave and a bit on Allen St) These two items are in the red portion of the sign.
Park/Row/CH: Destination
Sorry, hope this information has helped you.
The M5 used 57th rather than CPS to get between 6th/5th and Columbus Circle.
The SB M7 ran down Columbus all the way to 58th, and then cut across town. (The NB M7 used Broadway from CC to 72nd, as it does today.)
The M13 was today's M8.
The M17 terminated at 81st and West End, not 79th and Broadway.
The M30 was nothing like today's M72. It was just like today's M30, except it continued up Broadway to 72nd and across to CPW. It was the closest route the system had to a 72nd Street crosstown, but it didn't run through the park at all.
The M103 ran to 72nd and Broadway, much as the M57 does now.
I think the M35 was still running to Astoria on a part time basis when the M60 came out but it was for a short time.
3 was also the 49th and 50 Streets crosstown.
I have a very old MABSTOA booklet that lists the front and side rollsigns for all divisions for certain buses. It's so old it includes the 54th street depot, long gone.
Michael
Washington, DC
David
M12 destinations were: Bowery, Mangin Street, Watts & Ave of Americas, Broadway Side sign Spring Street Delancey Street
My MABSTOA rollsign booklets are
A/C GMC 1967 Model TDH 5303 #s 8301-8780
GMC 1966 Model TDH 5303 #s 6401 - 6900
Michael
Washington, DC
Michael
Washington, DC
Also one footnote to add: The original M100 actually ran from 2nd Ave to Riverdale from Broadway via current Bx7 route then it went via Johnson St (current Bx10/20) and depending of time of day, ended at either West 246th st Riverdale or West 263rd st Riverdale Ave. There was no similar routing for the Bx7 (although many Bronx bus routes had different numbers back in the 70's)
The back LED display still doesn't work though.
I noticed that too ;-).
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Here's Your Answer
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
http://www.nycsubway.org/bus/manhattan.html
As to how many buses are assigned to each Manhattan route, there is a number (which I have available to me in my office). However, it should be noted that the same vehicle is not assigned to the same route every day, and even if the same bus happens to be on the same route two days in a row it's not likely to be assigned to the same Bus Operator(s). Is there a specific reason this information is needed?
David
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Unless there are special circumstances (like a route needs articulated buses and the bus we're talking about isn't an articulated bus, or they're testing a particular bus on a particular route, or a bus is due for inspection), NYC Transit buses are usually assigned on a "last in/first out" basis. That is, the bus that most recently came back into the garage after its work was finished is the next one to be sent out.
Ideally, when a NYC Transit bus comes into the garage, it is cleaned and fueled, and the revenue is removed from the farebox. When things are busy, a bus might be sent right back out after its arrival at the garage without being cleaned/fueled/emptied of revenue. Sometimes, a Bus Operator who is supposed to pull the bus into the garage is running late and is ordered to take his/her meal break with the bus. He or she will park the bus somewhere near where his/her next trip is supposed to start, take the meal, and go back into service at the right time.
I hope this answers a few questions (maybe including some that haven't been asked yet!).
David
The M103 is based out of Manhattanville Depot, and using your exapmle 7777 would run on Monday on the 103 then David explains the process and then on Tuesday the bus could run on the M60, another MV route. Hope this helps.
Every run has a scheduled pull out time. I guess the dispatchers have a line up of buses and assign to operators based on the scheduled pull out times.
It's probably random which route a bus is assigned unless there's a special need, like an artic on a particular route. A RTS is a RTS is a RTS and it doesn't make any difference if the RTS works M60, M35, etc.
You are trying to create a distinction where none exists.
Michael
Washington, DC
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Why are focusing on specific buses? What are you getting at? If the depot manager doesn't care that a bus is assigned to M35 one day and M60 the next day, why do you care?
Michael
Washington, DC
The first bus due out in the morning is supposed to go on the M-31 route. It's supposed to pull out at 12:20 AM. Bus #1234 was the last one to come in, so that's the bus that gets assigned.
(NOTE to others: I made up the bus number and the times here...I know 1234 was a 1981 RTS and isn't running anymore!)
As for the other information requested (number of buses assigned to each route), please go to the MTA website's feedback page at http://www.mta.info and ask the question -- then let us know what the answer is.
David
Good suggestion ;-). Now lets see what comes up [if done].
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I was only going into downtown to take pics of the MTA buses so this part is only of notable observations. There seemed to be more Neos running during the midday, yea, but still a whole lot of NABIs. I was ready to leave when I saw 8956 pull up at the Convention Center and then a tow truck came almost immediately. I am pretty sure the driver called and said there was a problem, and to have the repair truck meet it at point. This is the second time I saw this with MTA.
Then up rolled the infamous 9015. It still takes off slow, but at least it isn't going up a hill, LOL!!!
Leaving to go home, I grabbed 8826 to the Bush Garage and to my surprise instantly came the 51(this doesn't happen) that was the good news, the bad news was that it was 9007. This bus was the first in line at the traffic light, but I am surprised that it actually got through, it was moving so slow. I took this slow a** bus to intersect with the 17 back to BWI thinking I was going to get a Neo or Flxible, but what shows up, a freakin NABI, 0067. So I took this bus back to BWI and took some more rear shots of the BWI buses and then came up the B30, 4391. The bus looped around the business district and then back to the airport(it took boarding passengers after dropping off some at the airport. On the way back we intersected Howard Transit 9104 again. We got to Greenbelt and after seeing 8973 on the 89, up came nopower 9658 on the R12 back to New Carrolton. I saw 2086 with a bike rack, and also ex-FMR 9754 or 84 laying over at New Carrolton. I missed the F14, by realizing that it leaves 10 minutes before I thought it would. I walked up to THE BUS shelter to have some peace and quiet but here comes some people thinking that THE BUS still runs, boy I guess they felt stupid after
realizing THE BUS stops running at 7 pm(laughing my ass off on the inside). They wound up taking the F14. I also saw 9764 (ex-FMR) on the B22 and 9834 on the B31(this is the first time I have seen a 9830 on the B31, they usually uses Orion VIs.
That sums my trip today, hopefully I will go to Loudoun County to ride their transit system, should interesting.
Wayne
When I was there a few months ago, they ran a fair amount of older 6V92-powered (900 series) Orion Vs and a few Flxes but the newest thing I saw there was a 40-foot Gillig Phantom (1200 series). I do know the 700s are 1990 models, but does anyone know if they are still in service, or anything about their whereabouts?
-F.
B54#9141
David
B54#9479
David
I will find out the destinations later...
Incognito
B14#5002
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Another word of advice: don't start new threads with the same subject line as one that's already going on (like "Manhattan buses"). It's confusing.
David
Michael
Washington, DC
Each book is about 20 pages so NO! I'm not typing it here.
Michael
David
You raised several questions in that one long sentence. Why don't you break them up into individual ones, punctuated by a ?
It would be a lot easier to read and respond to !!!!!
"ok does anybody how long did the nyct kept the gmc / flxible buses in service" should read
ok, does anybody KNOW how long the nyctA keep the gmc / flxible buses
in service?
To answer your question with a question, which gmc and flxible buses are you asking about ?
GMC Old Look
GMC New Look
Flx New Look
Flx Metros
Please be more specific, we're not mind readers !
Come on guys and gals, CDTA admitted in an earlier post that he or she is only 11 years old. Perhaps grammar, etc., has not yet been perfected by 6th grade! (Of course, this assumes that CDTA is being honest with us!)
Buses generally are not assigned to routes. They're assigned to depots and can be used on any route in the depot. There are exceptions: express buses generally are used only on express routes, articulated buses are generally used only on routes where the schedules are based on articulated buses being used, etc.
As for how buses are assigned to depots, that's the kind of thing NYC Transit's Chief Maintenance Officer and his staff decide. They look at things like average fleet age, what types of buses are already in the depot (they try to keep the number of different bus types in a depot to a minimum to make things easier on the maintainers), and such.
David
David
http://www.cdta.org/ (looks like offical site)
http://www.angelfire.com/ny5/nebuses/rosters/albany.html (bus roster)
I don't know much about the CDTA just the info there provided. I would suggest contacting CDTA directly. I'm sure contact info can be found on the CDTA website.
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
So, what is a bus, that you see, all of the time. Not the type, but a number. Example, no matter what, but for the past three or four years, I've seen Neoplan artic 4541 almost everywhere all the time. And when the RTS were in Houston, I'd see RTS 2150 alot towards the end of his career. So what buses do you all see alot of?
574-U9
576
805-P4 (until 700 gets fixed if it hasn't been already)
546-T3 (broke down yesterday, 806 was doing the runs which is strange since that bus is assigned to Y4, I don't know what ran Y4 in the afternoon)
558-R7
618-S7
580
811
818
615 was on V2 in early June, don't know if it is still there.
If Chris has his way, V2 and Y4 get Orion Is in September but I hope he isn't that powerful ;-)
There was a stretch several months ago when 2033 was always seen working the 6:00am King of Prussia-Exton-West Chester run (6015 block). That bus had to have the worst steering of any bus in the fleet. Now with the restructured weekday runs, it's become hit and miss as to which block will see an ElDorado.
On the contracted 314 line, it seems the same drivers have the same buses every day (the contractor for the 314 has only 6 buses available). I never see that on any of the other SEPTA routes.
Though not the same exact bus, it seems that during the week, Red Arrow always sends out the slowest Neoplans on the 104s to West Chester (while the Newtown Square short turns seem to generally get NABIs or New Flyers) - at least during the mornings and mid-day.
Yeah, isn't the contracter located in Media somewhere? I remember go up the street the 110 runs on (I don't remember the name) and seeing a bunch of cutaways parked in a lot that said "RT 314" written on top of the destination sign in white letters. Yeah, they looked very attractive...
As to the weekday runs, it's smimilar with the 95, however it has been going on for a bit longer. When I started seeing Dorados doing regular service on the "Penn Square short turns" (buses that don't continue on to the 97) I would start to use them (I tried to avoid cutaways) and then a cutaway would show up. Recently a lot of Neoplans have been showing up on the 95 (fantastic!) on the 2:30 and 3:30 trips from Penn Square, yet once in a while I'd see a Dorado. My morning run uses Neoplans and Dorados. Sigh, Frontier is so unpredictable sometimes.
Hey, speaking of Frontier, do they change the assignments for drivers monthly or something? Drivers that used to operate the runs that I took to school seemed to change completely.
AFA Frontier, what I've seen more often than I'd want to have happen is using the same Ford on two different blocks on the 92/133 in the same day. Yesterday, I saw 2042 covering 6016 block (starts with the 6:00am from King of Prussia), then later covering 6020 block (starting - I think - with the 2:00pm from King of Prussia). It's bad enough to use the same bus to cover two different blocks, but Fords? Get real, SEPTA...
About the 314, that must be why I saw other mini buses there in the lot as well, but don't they know how to use the destinataion sign? Doesn't SEPTA train them at least in that aspect?
We are about to enter a very sad chapter in the 27 year history of Ride-On Montgomery County Transit. We only have one calendar month until our favorite Ride-On route, the 27, is eliminated. In a last attempt to convince Chris and his coworkers to keep the route, I have come up with 27 valid reasons to keep the 27 and I have proof (or proff if you prefer) to back up my claims in the form of some pictures and an avi movie. Click the links in the text to view them. Now, get out your kleenex and start reading.
27 Reasons to Keep Ride-On Route 27
27. Because this is the 27 being eliminated, I have to come up with 27 reasons for why it shouldn’t be. If this were say, the 10, that was to be eliminated, I would only need 10 reasons.
26. You now have 25 more reasons after this one to read through. If a route with a lower number were to be eliminated, you would have fewer to read. (This is a hint not to discontinue something like the 90 or 124)
25. How are people supposed to use a bus that hardly ever comes?
24. What difference does it make if a bus that has been running for 15 years runs a bit longer?
23. The 27 is probably the only route where a bench at a stop would break and instead of replacing the bench, they remove it completely. Forever.
22. The 27 is the only route where trips will get short turned without telling anyone when the schedule change is implemented.
21. It would be discriminatory against all people who consider 27 to be their favorite number.
20. Whenever one evaluates performance, something has to rank last. Why can’t it be the 27?
19. Six people sent in public comments of some sort; at least some people care about this route.
18. Mr. Cathan of Dorset Avenue uses the 27 on a regular basis and objects to the elimination.
17. 27 is not equal to 23, 33, 36, or T2. We will never get the same service again.
16. With a bit of fuzzy math, 27 times 2 comes close to 42, which is probably the biggest source of competition for the 27. If the 42 didn’t exist, maybe people would ride the 27.
15. If you get bored of riding the 42 all the time, there will no longer be a scenic alternative through Little Falls Park.
14. The poor First Transit drivers won’t get 30 minutes of quality time alone with their Hell Dorado.
13. Once the passengers on the 32 extension to Woodrock get a taste of First Transit operations, they will wish they never requested bus service in the first place.
12. Confusion will no longer reign at Bethesda when two 27s show up at once and people have to figure out which one is going to East Bethesda and which one isn’t.
11. The passengers waiting at Friendship Heights for 23s won’t have any buses to stare and wonder where the hell does that bus go and who ever takes it?
10. The 36s with passengers on them might not be able to make it up the hill on Hillandale at Bradley. The 27s with no one have enough trouble as it is.
9. The public hearing was scheduled for when I was out of town.
8. The route is so popular, it has to use WMATA’s NABI artics (explaining why the Y8 doesn’t have any).
7. The 23 and T2 might get very crowded along River Road having to pick up former 27 riders. Same goes for the 36 and 92 on Arlington Road. It might be the first time there is a standee on a Ride-On bus other than the 15!
6. No First Transit driver has accidentally entered 1019 as their sign code and couldn’t get it to clear. Perhaps that would increase ridership.
5. The bus has to detour to Grosvenor, Rockville, and even the Bahamas. Who is going to use a bus with all those detours?
4. In addition, the run sighted at Rockville had an Orion V/CNG on it. Clearly a route with 40 foot Orions should keep running.
3. And, to even further make this point, the driver had to put up the BUS FULL P/R sign (See proof). Really? Who ever heard of discontinuing a route that has the largest buses in the system packed full?
2. You can’t eliminate something more than once. Once it is eliminated once, it is gone for good. The 27 was already eliminated before, so how can it be eliminated again?
1. I, Oren Hirsch, use this bus on a “regular” basis and even have interned for Ride-On, but they wouldn’t dare consider asking me if they should eliminate the route.
Some sarcasm was intended in the above.
Hopefully you haven't used up all your kleenex and if you have, I hope your tears haven't damaged your computer keyboard. A Farewell to the 27 Trip might be scheduled, stay tuned for more details. Have a great day!
P.S. to anyone who thought you were going to get my last name out of all this: You were wrong!!!
EXCELLENT!
yeah! 27 is my favorite number!
It might be the first time there is a standee on a Ride-On bus other than the 15!
Rt 15 is not the only one with standees I'll tell you that. One night of transit fanning I rode a 35ft Gillig on the 16 with a good bit of standees.
Wow, so that was the 27...was one of those "peak service only" routes. It look like it had an interesting lifetime of mistreatment.
Michael
Washington, DC
SEPTA District Listings: These listings are based if I ran the SEPTA assignments. Compare with the current roster, and you decide which is better.
August 7th, 2003
ALLEGHENY (5xxx) 109 Diesel Buses
2601 Allegheny Av (Between 26 & 27 Sts)
Tioga (North Philadelphia)
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 9 (500x), 27 (505x), 33 (515x), 48 (540x), 54* (550x), 60 (530x), 65* (520x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BM (4): 9711, 9721-9723
1996 NABI (10): 5154, 5156-5164
1999 Neoplan OQ (8): 7101-7108
2000 Neoplan OQ (87): 7109-7195
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 5157 (Verizon DSL).
CALLOWHILL (9xxx) 193 Diesel Buses
Callowhill St between 58 & 59 Sts
West Philadelphia
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 1* (900x), 15 (902x), 21/42 (910x), 30 (916x), 31 (920x), 34 Shuttle (822x, buses from Callowhill, operators from Elmwood), 38 (925x), 40 (930x), 43 (940x), 44/121 (967x), 46 (945x), 52 (950x), 64* (955x), 65* (960x), G* (970x), Market-Frankford Blue OWL* (990x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BP (2): 1406, 1425
1986 Neoplan DK (3): 3058, 3068, 3082 Scrap: 3045, 3122
1987 Neoplan EB (21): 3153-3156, 3193, 3200, 3233-3245, 3247-3248 Scrap: 3246
1989 Neoplan EZ (19): 3382, 3399, 3417-3423, 3425-3434
1996 NABI (88): 5001-5058, 5249-5278
2001 New Flyer D40LF (60): 5411-5470
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 5008, 5024, 5056, 5265 (Verizon DSL), 5022 (Dockside Apartments), 5055 (National Constitution Center; partial street-side), 5264 (???, partial street-side), 5273 (Tastycake).
COMLY (1xxx) 188 Diesel Buses
Oxford Circle (Northeast Philadelphia)
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 1* (105x), 14/20 (110x), 19/67 (120x), 24 (125x), 28 (130x), 58 (135x), 70* (140x), 73 (145x), 84 (150x), R* (155x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BM (7): 9612, 9701, 9704, 9709, 9714-9715, 9718
1985/2002 Neoplan CD (13): 9741, 9744, 9746-9747, 9760, 9767, 9772, 9775, 9780, 9803, 9807, 9809, 9813
1986 Neoplan DK (0): Scrap: 3073-3075, 3111-3116
1987 Neoplan EB (9): 3136-3138, 3160-3164, 3232 Scrap: 3157, 3166, 3169
1988 Neoplan EI (9): 3253, 3266, 3268-3272, 3282-3283
1989 Neoplan EZ (13): 3397, 3400, 3402-3404, 3408-3412, 3414-3416**
1996 NABI (92): 5059-5133, 5293-5295, 5351-5364
2002 New Flyer D40LF (45): 5541-5585
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 5059 (Frankford Transportation Center).
ELMWOOD (LIGHT RAIL ONLY, 8xxx) 8 PCC Cars, 112 LRVs; 120 Total
Island & Elmwood Avs
Southwest Philadelphia
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 10# (805x), 11# (810x), 13# (815x), 34# (820x), 36# (825x)
1947-48 PCC Car (8/): 2728, 2732, 2785, 2799, 2160, 2168, 2187, 2194 Scrap: 2181
1981 Kawasaki LRV (112): 9000-9111
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 9035 (Verizon DSL).
FRANKFORD (2xxx) 161 Diesel Buses
Bridge& Pratt Sts (Frankford Terminal)
Frankford (Northeast Philadelphia)
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 3* (220x), 5 (225x), 8 (230x), 25* (217x), 26* (222x), 59 (200x), 66 (205x), 75 (210x), 88 (250x), J* (255x), K* (260x), Market-Frankford Blue OWL* (270x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BM (16): 9603, 9654-9655, 9667, 9673-9674, 9685, 9698-9700, 9705-9706, 9710, 9717, 9720, 9724
1985/2002 Neoplan CD (31): 9733, 9735, 9759, 9763, 9766, 9785-9786, 9788-9789, 9795-9798, 9804, 9811-9812, 9824, 9829-9830, 9833-9836, 9839, 9843-9845, 9855, 9861-9863
1986 Neoplan DK (0): Scrap: 3065
1987 Neoplan EB (43): 3132, 3135, 3139-3152, 3158, 3172-3186, 3203-3204, 3209, 3216-3219, 3222, 3224, 3230-3231, 3250-3251
1996 NABI (29): 5279-5292, 5336-5350
2002 New Flyer D40LF (40): 5501-5540
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 5350 (Frankford Transportation Center).
MIDVALE (3xxx) 347 Diesel Buses
4401 Wissahickon Av
Nicetown-Tioga
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 2* (340x), 3* (343x), 6 (398x), 7* (345x), 18 (300x), 22 (320x), 23* (310x), 26* (305x), 32 (313x), 35 (357x), 39 (395x), 47* (330x), 53 (349x), 54* (377x), 55 (350x), 56 (360x), 57* (390x), 61 (370x), 70* (365x), 77 (367x), 80 (369x), 89 (342x), C* (390x), H/XH (325x), J* (385x), K* (386x), L (335x), R* (315x), Broad Street Orange OWL* (395x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BM (16): 9602, 9606, 9616-9617, 9622, 9624, 9633, 9637-9638, 9644-9646, 9650, 9656, 9658, 9664
1984/2001-02 Volvo B-10M Artic (17): 7801-7802, 7804-7807, 7811-7812, 7817, 7820, 7823, 7829-7830, 7835, 7847, 7849-7850
1985/2002 Neoplan CD (18): 9737, 9742, 9748-9749, 9752, 9756, 9782, 9827, 9852, 9858-9859, 9865, 9868-9873, 9875
1986 Neoplan DK (42): 3000, 3003, 3011-3013, 3015, 3017-3018, 3025, 3027-3028, 3030, 3032, 3034-3035, 3037, 3039, 3046, 3051, 3054, 3063, 3081, 3083-3084, 3086, 3089-3090, 3092, 3095-3096, 3098-3100, 3103-3104, 3106-3110, 3130-3131
1987 Neoplan EB (4): 3165, 3167, 3170-3171
1988-90 Flxible (Ex-DART) (25): 3501-3525
1988 Neoplan EI (27): 3284-3290, 3294-3313
1996 NABI (80): 5165-5193, 5195-5197, 5199-5213, 5215-5236, 5238-5248
2000 Neoplan OQ (60): 7196-7255
2001 ElDorado National (11): 4559-4569
2003 New Flyer D40LF (46): 5667-5712
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 9749 (Verizon DSL), 3063 (Sept. 11th Memorial), 5172 (Tastycake), 5235 (Frankford Transportation Center).
SOUTHERN (7xxx) 66 ETBs, 188 Diesel Buses
Johnston St between 19 & 20 Sts
South Philadelphia
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 2* (710x), 7* (720x), 12 (725x), 17 (730x), 23* (705x), 25* (715x), 29 (750x), 37 (735x), 47* (790x), 47m (799x), 57* (745x), 63 (739x), 64* (740x), 68 (785x), 79^ (760x), 108* (700x), C* (755x), G* (765x), Broad Street Orange OWL* (795x)
1979 AM General 10240-T ETB (66): 810-830, 832-834, 836-838, 842, 845-846, 848-850, 853, 857-858, 861, 863-864, 866-867, 871, 874, 876, 878-880, 882, 884-888, 890- 892, 895-899, 902-903, 905, 908-909
1984/2002 Neoplan BP (7): 1401-1404, 1408, 1418, 1421
1987 Neoplan EB (32): 3187-3192, 3194-3199, 3201-3202, 3205-3208, 3210-3215, 3220-3221, 3223, 3225-3229
1988 Neoplan EI (31): 3256-3259, 3330-3356
1989 Neoplan EZ (10): 3372-3373, 3384-3389, 3413, 3435
1996 NABI (29): 5198, 5214, 5237, 5375-5400
2001 New Flyer D40LF (30): 5471-5500
2002 New Flyer D40LF (5): 5596-5600
2002 New Flyer DE40LF (2): 5601H-5602H
2003 New Flyer D40LF (44): 5613-5656
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 53?? (Verizon DSL), 5396 (City of Philadelphia, Streets Department/Recycling).
VICTORY/RED ARROW (BUS AND LIGHT RAIL, 4xxx)
Victory Ave 29 LRVs, 26 HRVs, 167 Diesel Buses
Upper Darby Twp, Delaware Co
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 100# (400x), 101#/102# (410x), 103 (420x), 104 (421x), 105 (430x), 106 (433x), 107 (434x), 108* (435x), 109 (440x), 110 (443x), 111 (445x), 112 (447x), 113 (450x), 114 (454x), 115 (456x), 116 (458x), 117/119 (460x), 118* (463x), 120 (465x), 122 (467x), 123 (468x), 124/125* (470x), 305 (480x)
1981 Kawasaki LRV (29): 100-128
1984/2001 Neoplan BP (2): 1420, 1422
1986 Neoplan DK (0): Scrap: 3060, 3062, 3121, 3125, 3127
1988 Neoplan EI (11): 3260-3265, 3267, 3291-3293, 3371
1989 Neoplan EZ (60): 3375-3381, 3383, 3390-3394, 3398, 3401, 3405-3407, 3436-3466, 3468-3473, 3475-3479
1994 ABB N-5 Norristown Cars (26): 130-155
1996 NABI (50): 5296-5335, 5365-5374
2001 ElDorado National (24): 4534-4557
2001 New Flyer D40LF (10): 5401-5410***
2002 New Flyer D40LF (10): 5586-5595
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 3379, 3391, 3439 (Ross Stores, partial street-side), 3383 (First Trust Bank, partial street-side), 5325 (Philadelphia Phillies, partial street-side), 5373 (Verizon DSL).
FRONTIER (6xxx) 123 Diesel Buses
Alan Wood Rd, north of Ridge Pk
Plymouth Twp, Montgomery Co
ROUTES ASSIGNED: 91 (600x), 92/133 (601x), 93 (603x), 94 (605x), 95### (607x), 96 (608x), 97### (610x), 98 (612x), 99 (614x), 118* (616x), 124/125* (617x), 127 (620x), 128 (622x), 129 (623x), 130 (625x), 131 (626x), 201 (627x), 203 (630x), 206 (632x), 304 (633x)
1984/2002 Neoplan BP (2): 1415, 1417
1986 Neoplan DK (0): Scrap: 3002, 3008, 3016, 3055, 3072, 3077, 3097, 3118
1988 Neoplan EI (41): 3252, 3254-3255, 3273-3281, 3314-3318, 3320-3329, 3357-3370
1989 Neoplan EZ (15): 3374, 3395-3396, 3480-3491
1996 NABI (20): 5134-5153
1999 Ford Cutaway Minibus (Breeze IVA) (4): 2052-2055
2001 ElDorado National (31): 4514-4533, 4570-4580
2003 New Flyer D40LF (10): 5657-5666
###: Most 95 runs are cross routed with the 97. A 95 run with a 607x block is most likely a short turn between Gulph Mills P&W and Conshahocken Railroad Station.
CURRENT FULL WRAPS: 3487 (TH Properties), 5140 (Philadelphia Phillies, partial street-side), 4516, 4522, 4531 (Commenwealth of Pennsylvania, Department of Health; partial street-side).
Just like everything on SEPTA, this roster is SUBJECT TO CHANGE without notice.
Neoplans in bold type have surburban specification soft seats.
*: Route split with another depot.
**: #3414 was retrofitted with a DD50 engine and Alison B5000 transmission in 1994, and seats 38.
***: New Flyer 5401, the prototype for SEPTA's order, was built in 2000; have been sent back to factory for retrofit work.
****: Diesel-electric hybirds, testing underway, remainder due in Spring 2003.
Midvale 5194 is expected to be out of service for at least 5 months due to fire damage.
Totals: Volvo B-10M: 17 Neoplan BM: 24 Neoplan BM Suburban: 20 Neoplan BP: 13 Neoplan CD: 48 Neoplan CD Suburban: 14 Neoplan DK: 43 Neoplan DK Suburban: 2 Neoplan EB: 98 Neoplan EB Suburban: 13 Flxible: 25 Neoplan EI: 104 Neoplan EI Suburban: 15 Neoplan EZ: 89 Neoplan EZ Suburban: 28 NABI 416: 398 Breeze: 34 Neoplan OQ: 155 Eldorado National: 80 New Flyer D40LF: 300 New Flyer DE40LF: 2 Total: 1520
THE END
Metro Houston Bus Roster - Depot by Depot Style
Fallbrook Facility
1991 Neoplan AN460 Suburban Dual Fuel Coaches (25): 1450-1474
1979 Grumman 870 Rehabs (14): 1686-1699
1977 GMC-RTS-II-01 (1): 1759
1983 GMC RTS-04 (53): 2087-2129, 2190-2199
1992 Ikarus 416 Suburban Coaches (13): 2715-2727
2000 New Flyer D40LF (65): 2800-2864
2001 New Flyer D40LF (40): 3220-3244, 3315-3329
1993 Neoplan Metroliner Dual Fuel Coaches (15): 3734-3749
1998 New Flyer D30LF (15): 4275-4289
2000 Neoplan AN460 (30): 4560-4589
1999 New Flyer D45S (15): 4715-4729
2002 MCI D4500 (30): 4835-4864
Total: 316 Buses
Hiram Clarke Facility
1991 Neoplan AN460 Suburban Dual Fuel Coaches (10): 1475-1484
19xx Various Model Year Flx New Look Rehabs (50): 2200-2249
19xx Various Model Year GMC New Look Rehabs (15): 2250-2264
1985 Flxible Metro A (16): H2281 (Historic Bus), 2355-2369
1990-94 Ikarus 416 Tranist/Suburban Coaches (70): 2460, 2461, 2468, 2469, 2470, 2498, 2500, 2505, 2516, 2566, 2568, 2571, 2572, 2573, 2575, 2578, 2579, 2586-2604, 2606, 2607, 2629-2645, 2700-2714
2000 New Flyer D40LF (20): 2865-2884
2001 New Flyer D40LF (20): 3200-3219
2002 New Flyer D40LF (16): 3520-3535
1996 New Flyer D40LF (25): 4000-4024
1998 New Flyer D30LF (15): 4260-4274
1999 Neoplan AN460 Suburban Coaches (13): 4455-4467
1996/97 Neoplan AN460 (14): 4506-4519
1999 New Flyer D45S (59): 4730-4768, 4770-4789
For SCRAP: 4769 (Acc), 2605 (Fire)
Total: 343 Buses
Kashmere Facility
1979 Grumman 870 Rehabs (36): 1600-1635
1982/83 GMC RTS-04 (100}: 1987-2086
1993 Ikarus 416 Dual Fuel Coaches (21): 2608-2628
2000 New Flyer D40LF (50): 2900-2949
2001 New Flyer D40LF (30): 3285-3314
1993 Neoplan Metroliner Dual Fuel Coaches (11): 3750-3760
1997 New Flyer D40LF (27): 4075-4096
1998 New Flyer HEV40LF (10): 4097-4106
1998 New Flyer D40LF (5): 4107-4111
1998 New Flyer D30LF (13): 4315-4327
2001/02 MCI D4500 (40): 4810-4834, 4935-4949
Total: 343 Buses
Northwest Facility
1985 Flxible Metro A (70): 2300-2339, 2370-2399
2002 New Flyer D40LF (120): 3400-3519
1998 New Flyer D30LF (10): 4305-4314
1996-99 Neoplan AN460 Suburban Coaches (54): 4400-4454
2002 MCI D4500 (30): 4900-4929
For SCRAP: 4416 (Fire)
Total: 284 Buses
Polk Facility:
1981/82 GMC RTS-04 (87): 1900-1986
1992 Ikarus 416 (11): 2569, 2570, 2574, 2576, 2577, 2580-2585
2001 New Flyer D40LF (110): 3245-3284, 3330-3399
1998 New Flyer D40LF (45): 4112-4156
1996/97 New Flyer D30LF (60): 4200-4259
1999 New Flyer D45S (29): 4700-4714, 4790-4803
Total: 342 Buses
West Facility:
1991 Neoplan AN460 Suburban Dual Fuel Coaches (19): 1485-1503
1979 Grumman 870 Rehabs (50): 1636-1685
1983 GMC RTS-04 (60): 2130-2189
19xx Various Model Year GMC New Look Rehabs (35): 2265-2299
1985 Flxible Metro A (15): 2340-2354
1992/93 Ikarus 416 Suburban Coaches (26): 2728-2753
2000 New Flyer D40LF (15): 2885-2899
1993 Neoplan Metroliner Dual Fuel Coaches (35): 3700-3734
1996/97 New Flyer D40LF (50): 4025-4074
1998 New Flyer D30LF (15): 4290-4304
1996/97 Neoplan AN460 (46): 4500-4505, 4520-4559
2001/02 MCI D4500 (40): 4865-4899, 4930-4934
Total: 387 Buses
Total Buses in Fleet: 2,015 Buses
Note: I think I'm missing 11 buses somewhere but, oh well.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
We will be attempting to cover as much ground as possible by rail only (that means no buses, sorry BusTalkers) with limited photo stops. There is no set itinerary as of now. Almost definate photo stops will be made at Grosvenor, Eisenhower Avenue, Huntington, Metro Center, and L'Enfant Plaza but this is subject to change. We may do the entire system but have no plans as of now to break Alan Sussman's record, set on January 14, 2001.
Please let us know if you are coming. If you let us know and your bus comes in just after the 49 I am scheduled to come in on (8:31), we will know to wait. Otherwise, we want to start ASAP so we can get as much done as we can.
Who is manufacturing them?
Neoplan—they are the AN460, both the city (transit) and commuter (suburban) types, the former seating 65 and the latter 67.
Will these new artics be replacing the old Volvo 9200 series
So far, I believe that the answer is yes.
Regards,
Trevor Logan
Rockland Coaches Operator
Flxible Metro's are okay. When I first started bus riding, I used to loathe getting an RTS on an RTS/Flxible split route. I loved the way the Flx's leaned and how they sounded when they went over bumps. Of course the RTS grew on me.
I hate NABI's, but I will definately mourn the passing of our current fleet of 59 Ikarus buses from 1993/94 which came with dual feul engines. The engines have been replaced, but they still sound like jets and the engines are even luder than ever now. I also have a soft spot for the older diesel Ikarus buses we have with an unmodified 6v92 engine. I hated these, but now that there are noyl about 25 or so of these left with the transit style configuration, I've been warming up to them.
What kind of engines were those Ikarus buses you mentioned replaced with?
You can't even see the pipe in person, is so well hidden!
Trevor
Wow talking about neatness NJT must spend some time customizing on this bus. Looks really nice!
I never knew Neoplan still made buses with floor mounted exhaust pipes, though. It's so different from others where the exhaust pipe is incorporated into the design, and is take it or leave it. Another reason why Neoplan USA is my favorite bus manufactor.
Trevor
And, now that we have seen the NJT suburban interior, I think a lot of people would like AN440 suburbans as the Metro-B suburban replacement.
MCI is really pushing the Cat C12 (which will be enlarged slightly later this year to the 13-liter C13). With the C9 as direct competition to the 8.9L Cummins ISL, and a more powerful unit than the 8.5L Detroit 50, the Kitty is really making a push into the bus industry. I think a lot of TAs and private compoanies will learn what truckers have known for decades - Cats run MUCH better than the competitor engines of the same size.
Joe Butler
Joe Butler
The best way to obtain this info would be to go to the route you are interested in,,and copy the readings as the bus passes. There are hundreds of readings,,bet the NYCT and the NYC DOT Buses
The number of readings on rollsigns is dictated by the routes the depot serves. If the number of routes is low, there will be a fewer readings than a depot that serves a lot of routes.
100th and 132nd Street depots has more readings than Amsterdam in the destination sign booklets I have.
Michael
Washington, DC
BIG AL
I rode New Flyer 5658, the first SEPTA New Flyer I ever rode (it was also on the 95, which doesn't use them anymore) on the 96 to Norristown - this is usually a Neo or NABI run.
I rode the rt 100, N-5 155 (the camera car) leading 151 to 69th St
I discovered that 69th St Terminal, the West Terminal, is the best place for transit pictures...every type of bus, except the cutaways, can be seenthere (artics can be seen going by on the 65). The buses at the terminal now had back door entry, which isn't really that big a deal since passengers pay when they get off. I saw 5312, a black strip NABI that still looks great with a shiny exhaust pipe and wheels. 4556 had to bike rack, but still had holders for it on the bumper (I later saw this on another route that passed the 114 bus I was on).
Next I rode 3401 on the 111 to Granite Run Mall. At first 3450, which has an oddly styled sign (was this originally a Midvale bus, for I saw a bus with a similar sign on the H) pulled up as the 111, but that was supposed to be the 4:30 bus(i was getting on the 4:00 bus), so we literally had to get off the bus (it was the rattiest and dirty suburban Neo I've ever seen anyway), and it had to back out so the other bus could pull in at the very edge of the platform. I overheard from other passengers that the 4:30 bus always comes in before the 4:00 bus...a dispatch mistake.
After I got to Granite Run Mall, I bought and ate popcorn and washed it down with a 22oz cup of Pepsi. The 116 bus, Dorado 4537, pulled up, and the driver went inside. I was a little irritated when he came back because I thought he was extremely late, but after a quick schedule check, he was right on time. I'll post the 116 experience in another post.
Upon my arrival at Chester, I saw a 114 bus to Darby pulling up to the terminal. Originally planning to take the 113 to Darby (I forgot the 114 went to Chester) I ran to the other side of the station to catch it, completely forgetting the huge cup of soda I drank an hour before and that I mildly needed to use the restroom. So, it was quite the uncomfortable ride to Darby, as I had no idea how long the ride would be, and I was about to burst (always use the bathroom when you can on a transit fanning trip). On the bus I noticed a UTU sticker on front, and that the front door was so slow! Upon the arrival at Darby, I found a McDonalds (yay!)but had to pass up my next vehicle in the process.
I rode the 11 to Center City, Kawasaki 9063. I got to ride in the very back finally...I loved looking our the rear window. These trolley had a fast acceleration pace...it was just too bad the we had to slow down a good bit at EVERY curve! I saw my first real life trolley/RR crossing - it resembled the crossing tracks you would see in other places, like on the Amtrak line to Orlando Florida. Finally, the subway surface tunnel is VERY jerky...good thing they are doing construction on it!
I rode the local BSL to Olney Terminal to catch the L bus home.
At Olney I caught 5696, a New Flyer. It was interestly annoying to hear this "video game" like sound from the speakers on this bus. (I later realized that this was the case on all 5600 series New Flyer buses, only not as noticeable. It grew louder and the pitch was higher as the bus went faster. tehre was masking tape along the air vents in front...this bus is getting "Midvale-ized"! Also interesting was that on the LED board, the "Mount Airy Avenue" announcement flashed on the board, instead of scrolling. Is this the case for any other SEPTA stops?
Well, that's the end of that day, the biggest SEPTA fan trip I've ever taken.
Around jume or July 1998 when septa came out of a stike I took full advance of SEPTA I rode on many buses. Rode on the Norristown PMW train line. Rode mainly on the 44 65 and 105. That was a exceptionly good time to take full advance of SEPTA.
Steve.
As far as the NYCRR is concerned, bicycles of any kind are prohibited from all NYCTA/OA Surface Buses.
After I bought my books, I got back on Route 1 to head back home, when I see The Bus again! This time it was a Thomas SLF #63027 on the 17. It had a pimped out corrugated cardboard sign in the winshield because its destination sign was stuck scrolling on SPECIAL HAVE A NICE DAY.
Then I saw The Bus ODV #63033 which I assume was deadheading on Cherry Hill Road in between Route 1 and Powder Mill Road, unless The Bus recently started delivering packages to that portion of PG County;-)
Today, while driving on Route 1, I noticed a Shuttle-UM Gillig Phantom doing the College Park Metrorail shuttle route. This route has been 100% 30 foot Flx Metro-B's for as long as I can remember. Could UMD be scrapping their Metro-B's?
Unfortunately for me, my assistant will be on vacation, so I will be working open to close Sunday thru Wednesday (17th-20th). Probably for those next two weeks I won't be bustripping, or practically doing anything at all, back to school parents shopping for their juvenile delinquents.
.....scrapping Metro-B!? Nooooo!!!!
Orion V #413 now assigned to MCH-saw it on the M1 today-wasn't this bus at Amsterdam?
NOVABUS #8999 on the M42 with MJQ stickers. This bus was from Manhattanville.
Also, be noted: Hudson and Amsterdam will close on September 7. This is the day of the system pick where the drivers will move. It is also the day that 100th st and West Farms will open. Keep an eye out.
M15-#5580-New Flyer
M42-#6087-Orion V
Peace
David
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Also to note, a cop was on the corner and told the driver to pull over and I think he issued the driver a ticket - for what I don't know.
That was 9601, the suburban demo that has been mentioned in other posts on this Board the past few days. The regular order may still be held up as a result of the legal investigation ongoing related to charges eaarlier this year against the gal responsible for purchasing equipment for NJ Transit.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Joe Butler
If you don't have a car to get up there, then doing a Frederick Transit trip is right now out of the question at least right now.
http://www.ivymedia.com/
Poke around here if you don't believe me.
The good news is that Howard Transit is expanding/adding new service to existing routes with more to come, as said on their website.
After finishing my application, I hopped on the 10:35am 4 - Downtown, which came at 10:33. I knew the driver, who is a 25 year veteran. He had bus 4537, a VERY slow Neoplan Artic. The speedometer didn't work and the bus was loud, but not in the good RTS way. In the crash crash bang bang in the articulated joint way. Well, we didn't need speed, we were already pretty damn early. A bus that seats about 65 people and not even 10 people were on. They REALLY need to speed up the schedule. We talked buses and I got off Downtown. I saw a girl I knew from school and we chatted. She was there with her girlfriend, and I mean that in the literal sense. It was her who had called me over. The girl I knew was acting shy, but who cares? Women are funny creatures.
After dropping the app, I checked on my hair and decided to look for bus 4106, the New Flyer HEV. I saw bus 2587 downtown, a 1993 re-engined former LNG Ikarus bus. The 6v92 roars like a jet but the bus is in less than stellar shape. Oh well. I decided to stake out a spot on Smith St. and wait for 4106 to show up. I figured it'd be running the 82 - Westhiemer line. and hell, if it didn't show up, I figured I could at least get a 4000 series D40LF out of the deal. Well, I walked to Smith and low and behold 4106 was loading up a block away. I grabbed a paper and dashed to the next stop.
The bus came and I stepped on. It smelled wierd. Every Metro test bus seems to have this smell. I sat in the back and after an eternity of waiting because a guy wanted to take pictures of the bus, we were off. I asked the driver a number of question he was all too happy to answer. He said they had the bus for three weeks. He didn't know that 4106 is a Metro original that was out of Fallbrook as a CNG bus. It had 130K miles on the odometer and the builders plate said Feb 1998. He said as far as he knows, there's only one of them. I'll verify that Monday. He basically said the bus was really nice, comfortable and fast. He said there were still some kinks to work out. The bus is on the street 18 hours a day from 6am-12am everyday. He said the driver after him always loses power near the end of the shift. But other than that, it's okay.
After I was done asking question, I went to the back and took in the sound. It had a distinctive New Flyer sound, complete with the trademark ghost howl, although a bit muffled. It was FAST. The driver said it could do 100. We were competing with cars with this thing. All in all an enjoyable ride. I rode it to Sharpstown Mall where I transferred to the 163 - Fondren Express. The bus I got was 2587, the one I had seen downtown. It was slow and loud, just the way I liked it. I went to the end of the line and back and got off at Beechnut to get the 4 home. Crappy 2001 D40LF 3350 showed up. Ugh, I hate those buses. The bus stalls at Jorine, a few blocks from my stop but we get it going again. There's nothing worse than the akward silence of a stalled bus. We make it to my stop and the driver is talking on the bus phone and running with hazards. Must've been a problem with the bus. Anyway, I get home and chill. All in all, a pretty good day.
2800-2899 Series D40LF - DD50/Allsion ???
2900-2949 Series D40LF - Cummins/ZF
3200-3535 Series D40LF - Cummins/ZF
4000-4156 Series D40LF - DD50/Allison ???
The 29xx and the 3000 series are fast as hell. The 2800's are pretty fast. And the 4000's are the slowest because of their age. The 4000's sound the best and there are still some fast ones like 4026, a 1996 model.
Where do you live, cdta?
Try usenet:
news:nyc.transit
http://groups.google.com/groups?hl=en&lr=lang_en&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8&safe=off&group=nyc.transit
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
If you are for real, it's a very sad commentary on the quality of education in this country. You don't have to be perfect-- but you should strive to be perfect and pay attention to grammar.
Michael
Washington, DC
My booklet doesn't show 126th Street depot, just 12,54,100,132,146 Streets and Kingsbridge, Coliseum, West Farms, and Amsterdam. The book is dated Sept 26, 1966 so I guess 126th depot didn't exist at the time.
Michael Ditkoff
P.S. Give up. You're NOT getting the booklet
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
With black background:
Norristown Local
69th St local
Bryn Mawr Local
With Red Background:
Norristown Express
69th Street Express
Ardmore Junction and Bryn Mawr
Radnor Only
Then:
Not In Service (yellow background)
Chartered
Norristown Limited (blue background)
69th Street Limited (blue background)
I think there may be a training car designnation, but I'm not sure. There may also be a special designation as well.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Westchester DOT (before Bee-Line) had a bunch but they were terrible. They had 2-2 seating and they were very cramped feeling. Hard to get in and out of the seats too. They were hard riding buses as well. And the bus operators hated that they could only open a tiny piece of the driver's window. And they were slow to accelerate. NYCT's RTS do seem pretty good tho, I'll give you that. NYCT apparently likes them ALOT and makes them work.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Exactly; they were 35' long (and 96" wide, narrower than NYCT's).
Also, the GMC buses that Bee-Line had were the RTS-03 models. A bus with numerous bugs to work out. The fact that they lasted 17 years should tell you what Bee Line thought of them.
Tijuana tried a very small handful of RTS's (mostly ex-SCRTD/LACMTA) about six or seven years ago and they didn't last long, nor have any subsequent RTS's ever been seen down there. I don't know if they just found them harder to maintain, or perhaps didn't like the fact that "usually" (but not always) the RTS's are slow..I don't know, as I don't speak enough Spanish to communicate with the drivers to find out the nitty-gritty.
They do seem to prefer Flyers (as in ex-Seattle, Samtrans) and believe it or not, Flxible Metro's (bunches of them from, believe it or not, Columbus, Ohio -- also from San Jose, CA and other cities.
Wayne
They have had so many modifications....yet they still run like champs.
yes, the driver's area is very cramped, even for me at 5'9" and 210 lbs. BUT....they don't ride too bad (lots of work was done on the suspension by our maintenance department), the passengers actually DO like them as the seats are more comfortable (we have 2x2 seating, 43 seats total in each bus).
Yes, they are slow to accelerate (compared with all the New Flyers and NABI's we have) -- BUT, I can stay right on schedule with an RTS just like I can in any other buses we have. Once they get out of first gear, they go like hell.
The wheelchair lifts are the most dependable lifts I've ever seen. You can't abuse them. The only thing better are the fold-over flaps on the NFI low-floors; if they don't work with the switches, they CAN be manyally flipped by hand.
Sure our RTS's are getting to be ancient history, but I did say above -- and wil repeat it -- they are running like champs!!
GM designed one heck of a good bus with the RTS!!
Steve you make QUITE a case for the RTSs (HeHe) Reminds me of the guy who lost his dog. He was asking people, did you see my little dog? Kinda mangy brown? He's three-legged, poor mutt, and blind in one eye. Answers to the name 'Lucky'
Yeah, the 20 year old buses show thier age... they're not perfect. But they're still a good solid bus. In fact, many of our drivers srongly prefer the older RTS to the brand new Nova LFS. I know we trash the LFS on a near daily basis (it's so easy!), but it's really not such a horrible bus as we tend to make it out to be. It does drive decently (when we can actually get it to move), and passengers love it.
There are some left in our fleet that are good enough that I'll actually go in and ASK for if I have to drive an RTS for the day (normally I'm in a NFI D60LF...)
I know a lot of people discredit the RTS because it's slow... but it really depends on the engine. We have some RTSs that are DOGS... but we also have some RTSs that are super fast. We have mostly 6v92's, with varying models and turbos. We also have a few Series 50's. (10 original, 4 retros) With a properly tuned engine and the larger turbo, both the 6v92 and the S50 can FLY. I've even beat out a Nova LFS with the Series 40 (and those are generally our fastest, by far)
Oh, and get your facts straight. Even in the waning days of the RTS, they still had big orders. Besdies the last few hundred from NYCTA, there were about 600 ordered by NJT, over 500 in Dallas and a couple hundred went to Detroit as well.
Some systems took to RTS [like NYCT], others were more tolerant of them, [like SEPTA], and of course NJT avoided them until Flxible went under. The degree of popularity of this bus was determined by how each system used them in daily service. NYCT used them all over,[it became the backbone of the bus fleet], SEPTA restricted them to 3 depots [mostly in close-in CTD depots, Allegheney and Callowhill ], and other systems used either setup for assigning their buses.
All in all, the RTS has proven to be the most durable design of bus in a long time. Let`s see if all of these low-floors can make this distinction.
Peace,
Kevin
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
B103#4961
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
2) The buses go in and out at different times because of schedule. They do not all begin or end their tours at one time. Buses go in or out of service for varing reaons outside of going in/out of service.
3) Roll signs are basicly loaded according to the depot. More or less each bus has the signs for whatever lines come out of that depot.
4) Use the Search function to find out whar people in the past have said about bus observations.
5) Bus routes in general haven't changed much in 30 years. They have stayed more or less the same. There have been some changes. Some routes have been deleted, added, changed destinations and how they get there. There are some websites that have the old bus routes in Manhattan. Half of the fun is finding them. Good luck.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I have arrived in Pensacola, Florida yesterday and I'm planning to ride ECAT buses next week(I'm not allowed to go off the base yet). I believe there are 15 routes, and the fare for riding is $1.00. If anyone can find me more information, I would appreciate it.
Let me just say, this place is wonderful, I'm really going to enjoy it here, although I will admit, I miss Fresh Pond. :)
Though people like to eat on the train,,, that strikes me as very ghettofabulous, EATING,SPITTING what the hell, SPITTING ON SEATS, SPITTING ON STAIRS, stuffing fast food cups into phone booths, MUTILATING A PUBLIC PHONE
I ride the subway a lot at late night, Unlike a government politician such as Bloomberg and Pataki, and witness the fuss the employees go to hose down subway stations, clense subway tunnels with jet-streams of water,
If this wouldn't be done, all u peoples who like to urinate will stink up the place, BELIEVE ME, its not the homeless as much as IT IS YOU, who represent the majority..
When the MTA defers station maintenance and cleaning, all those people will pay, unfortunately its average Joe commuter who takes the punch, I bet the MTA will initiate a ticket blitz to make up for the budget gap, people aparantely don't buy a $100 ticket. Make it $10 and charge many, many, people because everyone is a potential candidate, If people pay $70/month, they will be afraid to be fined $1 if they know it will happen, thay wont want the agravation of postage and attending hearings. Thats the psychology of how people budget their money!
I'm all for the tickets and get the Dept of Sanitation involved, fuck with DOS, you go to jail- I already see that fat slob with the fried chicken in a jail cell.
Jason
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
1500-1619 - These buses were mechanically rebuilt, but they retained their NYC seats (some even had Express seats), and their destination signs.
2001-2520 - There are some gaps in the numbering. Everything was rebuilt and replaced in these buses. They got the two-piece dot matrix signs, and buses assigned to private carriers had their dot-matrix signs replaced with the old-fashioned roll curtain signs.
Both groups of buses were retired in 2000, replaced by the RTS's.
Back to the issue, I am of the opinion that buses should have a heavy duty ventilation system with a couple intakes and powerful blowers. It seems like there are many times when the outside air temperature is fine but it remains much too stuffy inside the vehicle with the restricted amount of window openings. If you could change the air inside the bus a couple times a minute, the a/c would be needed only on the hottest of days in many places.
-Mike
Two lies in a row.
-Mike
BRT cleaner than electric rail transit, study says
Electric rail systems generate significant air pollution,
particularly where these systems are powered by electricity generated
by fossil fuel power plants, according to a new study.
The study, conducted by the Breakthrough Technologies Institute,
reveals that bus rapid transit (BRT) produces significantly less
pollution than electric rail, while costing a fraction of the cost to
build and operate.
"Using coal to power transit simply moves the tailpipe to the
smokestack -- the overall environment benefit is questionable," said
Bill Vincent, author of the study.
Three forms of transit were looked at throughout the study: electric
heavy rail, electric light rail and BRT.
It found that electric rail transit systems create significant power
plant emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur
dioxide, mercury and particulate matter, that contribute to smog,
lung disease and global climate change.
The study also found that BRT systems can produce significantly less
pollution than electric rail when powered by advanced engines and
fuels.
The report makes a number of recommendations to maximize the
environmental value of transit investments, including requiring
transit agencies to purchase renewable power wherever that option is
available.
The report, titled "The Electric Rail Dilemma: Clean Transportation
From Dirty Electricity?", is available for free download at
http://www.gobrt.org.
Our pals in the Persian Gulf region will love this...
Have you read about the Curitiba, Brazil system? I can recommend a good book that has a good section on it if you're interested.
Mike
Time to pick out and flatten the lies, it seems…
bus rapid transit (BRT) produces significantly less pollution than electric rail, while costing a fraction of the cost to build and operate
Lie number one fails to incorporate the comparative length of bus life, the initial cost plus maintenance of dedicated busways versus electrified rail (absolutely not a fraction of rail’s cost, but more than double, and as for maintenance, ever hear of potholes?), the dangers in inclement weather (not to mention costs for snow removal and de-icing measures), et al. There is also the question of whether or not motor fuel taxes ought to contribute to the upkeep of busways to the same degree that they do roads and highways.
It found that electric rail transit systems create significant power plant emissions, including carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury and particulate matter, that contribute to smog, lung disease and global climate change
Oh, that is funny. The implication there is that there are no emissions controls on power plants, which is simply not true. It also fails to note that regenerative braking systems would put electricity back into the system instead of sucking it out. Hmm, all of our homes, offices and industries are also responsible for those same terrible emissions, should we shut down all power plants too? Imagine how the economy would react to that.
The study also found that BRT systems can produce significantly less pollution than electric rail when powered by advanced engines and fuels
Total obfuscation here. No mention is made of the additional expense of alternate-fuel buses, nor the fact that no major city is converting to buses of such ilk too rapidly, finding that their reliability versus diesel buses is much poorer. Hmm, also no mention of the possibility that you could also generate electricity using the same “advanced engines and fuels”, but then again, this is a one-sided study. And what about hydroelectric, solar, wind and nuclear power generation? No emissions from either of those, and not given even a cursory mention. GoBRT.org of course has to put out such misinformation in order to promote its vision of perfect public transportation.
A true BRT system requires specialized vehicles that require mirror smooth roadways. These specialized vehicles are unable to handle regular roads with their ruts and potholes and their design defeats the purpose of one of points BRT advocates like to bring up, flexibility. This is because the buses aren't designed to run regular street routings.
BRT will need feeder buses due to its inability to run on regular street routings for any significant distance. Those feeders will put even more buses on the streets. With a regular busway, no feeders are needed and the bus just continues on it's route after leaving the busway.
The BRT buses themselves are unproven in terms of durability in US service where buses are held onto for 12 years plus. At 3 to 4 times the cost of a BRT vehicle over a standard bus, a BRT vehicle will still only last as long as a standard bus. Don't forget that BRT's are basically just a bus but will require more maintenance than a regular transit bus due to it's specialized design and aren't built to last 20+ years as their much higher cost should justify.
I'm not saying cities should all jump back on the Light rail bandwagon because it's not for everyone. The BRT design is flawed in many respects and cities that have the ridership numbers for light rail shouldn't change to BRT. A standard, and much cheaper, run of the mill busway that runs regular transit buses is a much better alternative to light rail in areas that don't have the ridership numbers to justify the more expensive LRT operation. This in-between mode of rapid transit isn't needed. If you have the ridership numbers to justify light rail, build it, if not go with a standard busway.
BRT, in my opinion, is the latest fad to get money out of the FTA. They love overblown projects and BRT is just an overblown busway in every sense of the word. Less flexibility, lack of time tested technology and much higher costs make this a perfect FTA project.
Having lived in the city that pioneered the standard busway design, Pittsburgh, I've been following BRT idea since it's inception and I am less than impressed with it compared to the 3 standard busways PAT has built since 1977. Needless to say, I'm a fan of the standard busway as I have first hand witnessed the success of it on a daily basis.
A "standard busway" with standardard buses IS BRT in my book. If you've already got the dedicated right-of-way, there aren't a whole lot of other features you need to call it BRT.
Nothing described here requires a special bus: http://www.gobrt.org/whatis.html What Is BRT?
It's the infrastructure outside the bus that makes it BRT.
The bus travels a private or restrictive ROW to shorten the trip time.
Where they use a high platform type bus, that feature greatly reduces it's flexibility vs. a articulated bus with curb loading.
In theory it's correct that standard busways, contraflow lanes, etc count however many who plan the systems and those of those that allocate the money don't see it that way. They see it as the bloated version of the standard busway. Just look at the lead page of the gobrt site showing the Civis coach which is the highly touted BRT bus of the near future. I attended a lecture a few years ago regarding BRT at Carnegie-Mellon University where a representative of the FTA spoke about the virtues of a BRT system. I was somewhat bothered by the fact that he called standard busways such as PAT's archaic and that we needed expensive specialty vehicles such as the Civis to make things work properly. I always saw little need for service that requires more expensive specialty vehicles which is what the FTA representative was highlighting in the talk.
Eugene Oregon's Lane Transit District which recently ordered 5 Flyer articulated Invero specialty BRT vehicles at $966,000 a piece for their new BRT system (http://www.springfieldnews.com/articles/2003/07/07/local/news3.txt). The last order of articulateds PAT ordered from Neoplan in 1999 came in around $350,000 a piece. That's some big difference in pricing for an articulated coach just because it's going to be used on a specialty BRT system. That's one reason why I tend to push the virtues of standard busways over the full blown BRT version, the cost differential.
I'll add to this here based on Thurston's post in this thread that a properly designed standard busway can also be converted over to LRT if need be. Two of PAT's three standard busways are designed for future conversion to light rail. The original South Busway is incapable of conversion due to some bridges that weren't designed for the heavier rail traffic (as the trolleys were planned to be phased out when the roadway was designed). The East and West standard busways can be converted easily by raising station platforms, laying of track on top of the existing roadway and putting up the overhead. The full blown BRT project isn't really needed for future conversion to LRT but some cities like Eugene seem to be sold on it.
Your examples Thurston are well said. I find though that full blown BRT systems such as the one going up in Eugene Oregon actually will cost very little less than just going ahead and building a light rail line when all is said and done. The conversion to LRT of a system like Eugene is putting in place will ultimately price it much higher than just laying the rail now due to the start up costs and the operational costs of the line. Converting a standard busway over will keep it more in line with what a LRT line would cost if built from scratch since a standard busway is much cheaper to build from scratch.
Jim D.
Oh, and did I mention that most vehicles in use in a BRT system generate their own power!
You and I are pretty much on the same page. A standard busway with standard vehicles is the way to start out and then the system can be upgraded over time as needed.
Mike
The difference between LRV & BRT is start up cost. Some of the cities that are trying a true BRT system intend to convert it to light rail if the projected traffic materilizes, i.e. they are already spending some of those start up dollars (private ROW, high platforms, etc.). Others like LA are calling it BRT, but it's just a Express bus.
At the other extreme are cities that have replaced buses with light rail as a urban development plan, i.e. the traffic isn't there, but maybe developers will build next to it & make a silk purse out of a pig ear.
"..........At the other extreme are cities that have replaced buses with light rail as a urban development plan, i.e. the traffic isn't there, but maybe developers will build next to it & make a silk purse out of a pig ear............."
That is called "transit oriented development" abbreviated TOD. The idea is to force the city to develop along transit cooridors with a good mix of residential and commercial so the personal auto becoms less necessary. Another idea that goes along with this is traffic calming measures so it is less intimidating to bicycle or walk.
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Robert
David
BIG AL
Robert
9444-9458 will be going to FLA. 9458 is there already.
9455 is there as well.
Also, add 9445, 9456, and 9457 to the list of buses already at FLA.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
BIG AL
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
RTS 8159 B41 LTD
NF 903 B8
B68-#977-NewFlyerLF
My 9100's!!! Why? THe 8500's should've went to UP and leave the 9100's alone. I just hope FP's exclusive Cummins Novas don't go anywhere.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
100St:M101 will be the only route out of this depot with 164 runs plus 4 extra trips on the M79 and 2 extra's on the M86.
Manhattanville:The M10,11,96,98,and 104 are the new additions to this depot.The M10 will have 39 runs,M11 41 runs,M96 33 runs,M98 13 runs plus 2 extras also 2 more extras from MCH and the M104 will have 64 runs with 3 extras.
MJQ:All of HP's routes will be at MJQ next pick.The M6 will have 28 runs.M8 12 runs,M9 18 runs,M14 79 runs,M21 10 runs and M22 17 runs with 2 extras.
MCH:Will have the Bx33,M1,M7,M30,and M60.Bx33 will have 11 runs,M1 60 runs,M7 48 runs with 6 extras,M30 will have 2 extras all other trips are out of MJQ.And the M60 will have 31 runs.
West Farms:This depot will be home to the Bx6,8,11,14,15,17,19,21,27,31,35,and Bx36.The Bx6 will have its usual 39 runs,Bx8 19 runs,Bx11 25 runs,Bx14 9 runs,Bx15 51 runs,Bx17 24 runs,Bx19 57 runs,Bx21 32 runs,Bx27 18 runs,Bx31 24 runs with 1 extra.
Bx35 22 runs and Bx36 with 53 runs.
Keep in mind as the post title says these are the weekday runs only.The weekend runs were not posted at KB probably because they've all been picked already.One more note,KB will have 2 extra trips covering the Bx28 and they will recieve the M100 from AMS.
Peace
David
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Bronx Division
West Farms
Bx6,Bx8 Bx11,Bx13,Bx14 15 17 19 21 27 31 35 36
Gun Hill
Bx1,4, 5 8 9 12 16 22 25 26 28 29 30 34 36 39 40 42 55
Kingsbridge
Bx 1 2 3 7 9 10 13 16 18 20 28 32 39 41 42
M100
Mother Clara Hale
Bx33
M1 7 30 60 98
MSH Lenx Av Shuttle
Manhattan Division
100th street
M79 86 101 102 103
126th Street
M15 31 35 57 66 72 116
Manhattanville
M2 3 4 5 10 11 18 96 98 101 104 106
Michael J Quill
M6 8 9 14 16 20 21 22 23
x26 M27 30
M34 42 50 79
Q32
M 86
X92 (90)
Brooklyn Division
East New York
B7 12 14 15 17 20 25 42 45
B51 60 82 83
Q24
Q56
Jackie Gleason
B8 9 11 16 23 35 37 43 61 63 65 67 68 69 70 71 75 77
Flatbush
B2 B6 31 39 41 44 46 47 49
Fresh Pond
B13 20 24 26 38 39 47 52 54 57
Q54 55 58 59
Ulmer Park
B1 b3 b4 B6 B9
B36
X25 X27 X28 X29
X37 X38
B64 B68 B74
Queens Division
Casey Stengel
Q12 13 14 15 16 20A 20B 26 27 28
Q32
X32
X51
Q44 48 58 Q74 Q76
Jamaica
Q3 q4 5 17 42
Q77 Q84 Q85
X63 X64
Queens village
Q1 Q2 Q30 31
X32
Q36 43 46
X68
Q75 79 83 Q88
Staten Island
Division
Castleton
X10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 30 X42
S40 42 S44 46 48 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 59
S60 62 66 67 74 76 78
S81 84 86 90 92 93 94 96 98
Yukon
X1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 15 17 19 22 31
S55 56 59 s61 74 78 79 91
Notes
Sept 7 to 8
Bx3 to KIngsbridge
BX6 to West Farms
Bx8 to West Farms
Bx11 to West Farms
Bx13 to West Farms and Kiingsbridge
Bx14 to West Farms
Bx15 to West Farms
Bx17 to West Farms
Bx19 to West Farms
Bx21 to west farms
Bx27 to West Farms
Bx31 to West Farms
Bx35 to West Farms
Bx36 to west Farms and GUn Hill
M6 to Quill
M8 to Quill
M9 to Quill
M10 to Manhattanville
M11 to MH
M14AD to Quill
M16/34 to Quill
M21 to Quill
M60 to Clara Hale
M72 to 126 st
M79 to 100 st and Quill
M86 to Quill and 100 st
M96 to Manhattanville
m98 to Clara Hale and Manhattanville
M100 to Kingsbridge
M101 to 100 st and Manhattanville
M102 to 100 st
M103 to 100 st
M104 to Manhattanville
M106 to Manhattanville
B51 to east new york
Q32 to Quill and Casey Stengle
S86 NEW ROUTE
X32 to QV and Casey Stengel
X92 trips extended over temporary X90 to Battery Park City
to be labeled the X90 at QUILL
Effective June 30 2003
This is all from MTA Sources---
Steve
8/7/03
David
contact me on Smokiecat54,,please
Because it's not a true split (such as the B20 or Q32), but one or two morning extras out of KB which just happen to cover Bx42 trips (Throgs Neck Houses branch) instead of Bx40 trips (Fort Schuyler branch).
www.regionaltransitservice.com
The depot is named for the late "Mother" Clara McBride Hale (1905-1992). For more info about her and Hale House, visit www.halehouse.org. Here's a summary of what she was all about:
In 1969, Mother Hale took in an infant whose mother could no longer care for her because of the mother's addiction to heroin. This was the beginning of a new era in an extraordinary legacy of caring. Mother Hale founded Hale House to care for babies affected by drugs and illness, or babies whose mothers or families were unable to care for them. Throughout her life, she was universally recognized for giving these vulnerable children a happy, healthy start in life. In fact, President Ronald Reagan praised Mother Hale as "an American hero."
After Mother Hale's passing, the depot was renamed as a way to honor her within the Harlem community. (I think a hospital wing for pediatric AIDS would have been more appropriate, but nobody asked me.)
David
Peace
David
David
B1-#9338-NOVABUS
B68-#7513-REMAN RTS
Bronx Division
West Farms
Bx6,Bx8 Bx11,Bx13,Bx14 15 17 19 21 27 31 35 36
Gun Hill
Bx1,4, 5 8 9 12 16 22 25 26 28 29 30 34 36 39 40 42 55
Kingsbridge
Bx 1 2 3 7 9 10 13 16 18 20 28 32 39 41 42
M100
Mother Clara Hale
Bx33
M1 7 30 60 98
MSH Lenx Av Shuttle
Manhattan Division
100th street
M79 86 101 102 103
126th Street
M15 31 35 57 66 72 116
Manhattanville
M2 3 4 5 10 11 18 96 98 101 104 106
Michael J Quill
M6 8 9 14 16 20 21 22 23
x26 M27 30
M34 42 50 79
Q32
M 86
X92 (90)
Brooklyn Division
East New York
B7 12 14 15 17 20 25 42 45
B51 60 82 83
Q24
Q56
Jackie Gleason
B8 9 11 16 23 35 37 43 61 63 65 67 68 69 70 71 75 77
Flatbush
B2 B6 31 39 41 44 46 47 49
Fresh Pond
B13 20 24 26 38 39 47 52 54 57
Q54 55 58 59
Ulmer Park
B1 b3 b4 B6 B9
B36
X25 X27 X28 X29
X37 X38
B64 B68 B74
Queens Division
Casey Stengel
Q12 13 14 15 16 20A 20B 26 27 28
Q32
X32
X51
Q44 48 58 Q74 Q76
Jamaica
Q3 q4 5 17 42
Q77 Q84 Q85
X63 X64
Queens village
Q1 Q2 Q30 31
X32
Q36 43 46
X68
Q75 79 83 Q88
Staten Island
Division
Castleton
X10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 30 X42
S40 42 S44 46 48 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 59
S60 62 66 67 74 76 78
S81 84 86 90 92 93 94 96 98
Yukon
X1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 15 17 19 22 31
S55 56 59 s61 74 78 79 91
Notes
Sept 7 to 8
Bx3 to KIngsbridge
BX6 to West Farms
Bx8 to West Farms
Bx11 to West Farms
Bx13 to West Farms and Kiingsbridge
Bx14 to West Farms
Bx15 to West Farms
Bx17 to West Farms
Bx19 to West Farms
Bx21 to west farms
Bx27 to West Farms
Bx31 to West Farms
Bx35 to West Farms
Bx36 to west Farms and GUn Hill
M6 to Quill
M8 to Quill
M9 to Quill%
Bronx Division
West Farms
Bx6,Bx8 Bx11,Bx13,Bx14 15 17 19 21 27 31 35 36
Gun Hill
Bx1,4, 5 8 9 12 16 22 25 26 28 29 30 34 36 39 40 42 55
Kingsbridge
Bx 1 2 3 7 9 10 13 16 18 20 28 32 39 41 42
M100
Mother Clara Hale
Bx33
M1 7 30 60 98
MSH Lenx Av Shuttle
Manhattan Division
100th street
M79 86 101 102 103
126th Street
M15 31 35 57 66 72 116
Manhattanville
M2 3 4 5 10 11 18 96 98 101 104 106
Michael J Quill
M6 8 9 14 16 20 21 22 23
x26 M27 30
M34 42 50 79
Q32
M 86
X92 (90)
Brooklyn Division
East New York
B7 12 14 15 17 20 25 42 45
B51 60 82 83
Q24
Q56
Jackie Gleason
B8 9 11 16 23 35 37 43 61 63 65 67 68 69 70 71 75 77
Flatbush
B2 B6 31 39 41 44 46 47 49
Fresh Pond
B13 20 24 26 38 39 47 52 54 57
Q54 55 58 59
Ulmer Park
B1 b3 b4 B6 B9
B36
X25 X27 X28 X29
X37 X38
B64 B68 B74
Queens Division
Casey Stengel
Q12 13 14 15 16 20A 20B 26 27 28
Q32
X32
X51
Q44 48 58 Q74 Q76
Jamaica
Q3 q4 5 17 42
Q77 Q84 Q85
X63 X64
Queens village
Q1 Q2 Q30 31
X32
Q36 43 46
X68
Q75 79 83 Q88
Staten Island
Division
Castleton
X10 11 12 13 14 16 18 20 30 X42
S40 42 S44 46 48 51 52 53 54 55 56 57 59
S60 62 66 67 74 76 78
S81 84 86 90 92 93 94 96 98
Yukon
X1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 15 17 19 22 31
S55 56 59 s61 74 78 79 91
Notes
Sept 7 to 8
Bx3 to KIngsbridge
BX6 to West Farms
Bx8 to West Farms
Bx11 to West Farms
Bx13 to West Farms and Kiingsbridge
Bx14 to West Farms
Bx15 to West Farms
Bx17 to West Farms
Bx19 to West Farms
Bx21 to west farms
Bx27 to West Farms
Bx31 to West Farms
Bx35 to West Farms
Bx36 to west Farms and GUn Hill
M6 to Quill
M8 to Quill
M9 to Quill
M10 to Manhattanville
M11 to MH
M14AD to Quill
M16/34 to Quill
M21 to Quill
M60 to Clara Hale
M72 to 126 st
M79 to 100 st and Quill
M86 to Quill and 100 st
M96 to Manhattanville
m98 to Clara Hale and Manhattanville
M100 to Kingsbridge
M101 to 100 st and Manhattanville
M102 to 100 st
M103 to 100 st
M104 to Manhattanville
M106 to Manhattanville
B51 to east new york
Q32 to Quill and Casey Stengle
S86 NEW ROUTE
X32 to QV and Casey Stengel
X92 trips extended over temporary X90 to Battery Park City
to be labeled the X90 at QUILL
Effective June 30 2003
This is all from MTA Sources---
Steve
8/7/03
Michael
Washington, DC
I can remember when Stage Coach Lines operated the route
Michael
Washington, DC
:-) Andrew
:-) Andrew
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
David
Destination signs are installed by borough of depot.
Limited stop service offers a speedier trip by making less stops with less running time than the local counterpart.
Lets use our heads on this one. If you dont have to stop every other block to let people on and off you save time. Also being that you stop less your chances of making the lights in sequence also increases.
Peace,
Kevin
Jamaica Buses Operator
http://www.straphangers.org/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi
They have all the answers to your questions.
BRILLIANT!!! 2k2
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
BIG AL
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
P.S. To answer busfan's question, the CMF moves to Zerega. Dont ask me what year though, but I think it is next year it goes.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
As you ALL know, NYCT is receiving new buses almost on a daily basis. The New Flyer D60HFs and the Orion 07.501 CNGs are pouring in and also other bus movements across the city.
Well, first I would like to tip my hat off to the Fresh Pond Bus Depot for FINALLY getting some good buses (#9459-9487 from Gun Hill and #8518-8566 from Jackie Gleason). I would also like to tip my hat off to Ulmer Park Bus Depot for again FINALLY receiving good buses (#9166-9185 from Fresh Pond and #8671-8689 from Jackie Gleason). With Manhattanville, Michael J. Quill and 126th St shuffling there buses around, we look to what is ahead! 1998 NovaBus RTS-06 #9606-9654 to MV, 1996 NovaBus RTS-06 #8979-9006 and more to MJQ and 2003 New Flyer D60HF #5526-5618 to 126th St with other movements, it does not mean that the fun stops there!
As we move into September, we can expect a lot more changes ahead, especially with the 2003-2004 Orion 07.501 Hybrids on there way....hopefully. Of course with BIG AL, Q5Merrick, DHF60, Operational Engineer II and others who would keep us posted on the movements....it's going to be an exciting ride for us bus fans! Let's all be patient and let the info come into Bus Talk.
Thank You
Next commentary will be next Sunday, August 17th
Ray
RESPECT THE BUS OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
David
Yes, I'm sorry...the CMO of the Department of Buses!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!
Yesterday I was on the Sunrise Hwy in Southampton and I saw 2000 Gillig Phantom 35TB102 #2001 (one door) on the S92. As the bus passed, I saw the exhaust pipe on top AND on the bottom!!! Can somebody explain this to me? Thanks in advance!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
I just noticed (and I have not been into Nassau County in a while) the N80 follows the N19 along Uniqua Rd to Merrick Rd and vice versa. Why did that change take place? Was it due to the amount of buses on Sunrise Hwy or something? Why not make the N54, N55 and N81 use Merrick Rd? I'm not trying to be smart or nothing....I'm just curious. Thanks in advance!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSE OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
Michael
Washington, DC
Peace,
Kevin
(I did that on purpose, imitating what cdta would type)
The new center all in all looks pretty good. The information desk in the lower center is only partially built, and schedules were all laying on top of an unfinished plywood top. The air conditioning in the terminal is most welcome. The rest rooms are almost finished,some fixture knobs are missing, however.
The bus berthing areas outside seem to work quite smoothly. There is plenty of area for the movement of the buses in the large area outside the Frankford garage. This ,of course, was observed by me on a typical non-rush situation Sunday afternoon. The place is going to look terrific when it's totally done in late 2004.
On another note, I caught a glimpse of SEPTA replacing the subway-surface trolley rail between 22nd & 15 th st. stations. That appears to be a fairly long term project, however. I'm not too sure when the completion date is for that. That will greatly improve the ride in that underground section!
I rode bus #5695 New Flyer on the 26 route, bus # 5038 NABI on the 65 route. Bus 5038 NABI had extremely slow acceleration from a stop. Is this typical of NABIS?
Chuck Greene
Chuck Greene
I believe the subway surface "renovations" was a long term project, since they kept diverting the trollies on weekends. The current dirversion has lasted for at least a week. Unfortunately, it slows down the MFL in one of the fastest sections in the subway! Yeah, the underground travel in that section should be much better, no more violent jerking around inside. Plus, maybe you won't hear those "gunshot" noises while waiting for a trolley anymore.
Speaking of New Flyers and NABIs, I rode 5426 on the 21. With the a/c, it really seemed to move slowly for a New Flyer, or maybe it's because I'm used to the speedier 5600s. We were behind a NABI running the 42 I believe, and it was stopped at a bus stop for several minutes, with us trapped behind. Know why we were trapped behind it? BECAUSE THEY ARE BOTH 102 INCHES WIDE, and that part of Walnut St is fairly narrow, especially with the parked cars. We almost got caught in the same situation again, but the driver decided to pass him. We barely, and I mean BARELY, got by. I mean, the driver of the NABI had to pull in his mirror, and there was probably an inch at most between the cars, the NABI, and our bus. Unfortunately, I ended up missing my P&W anyway, and my "fantrip" just went downhill from there. Moral of the story? Never transitfan with SEPTA on a Sunday, especially if you live up in Mont. Co.
Look at this, this boy has been asking questions that are open ended and take pages to answer, Its not to piss you off, he's just very curious and is fascinated with the complexity of the MTA
BIG AL
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
We all ask question that what this board is all about but when your question is answer and you as the same question again something wrong with you.
Michael
Washington, DC
David
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I got this in my mail today and I want to double check this with ALL the SEPTA people here on BusTalk.
Scrapped buses:
1984 Neoplan AN440A #8602-8603, #8606, #8612, #8616-8617, #8620, #8622, #8624, #8628-8629, #8631, #8633, #8637-8638, #8641-8647, #8649-8651, #8654-8656, #8658-8659, #8661, #8664, #8667-8668, #8673-8676, #8681-8682, #8685, #8690, #8693, #8698-8701, #8704-8706, 8709-8712, #8714-8719, 8721-8724
1984 Neoplan AN435A #1301, #1303-1304, #1306-1308, #1310, #1315, #1317-1320, #1323
1985 Neoplan AN440A #8727-8731, #8733, #8735-8736, #8739, #8741-8742, #8744, #8746-8750, #8752, #8754, #8756-8760, #8763-8764, #8766-8777, #8779-8786, #8788-8789, #8791-8792, #8794-8799, #8803-8805, #8807, #8809, #8811-8813, #8815-8817, #8819, #8821, #8824, #8826-8841, #8843-8847, #8849, #8852, #8855-8856, #8858-8859, #8861-8875
1986 Neoplan AN440A #3043, #3048, #3053, #3057, #3080, #3094, #3119
1987 Neoplan AN440A #3133
1996-1997 NABI 416.08 #5127, #5155 and #5267
I want to know if this is correct? Thanks in advance!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORKL CITY!!!
AFA 5127 goes, I haven't heard anything about that bus being scrapped. I do know that 5194 was badly damaged, but slated to be repaired and is now at Wyoming Shops.
Not sure how the depot system works - Maybe that is a pick also?
Any one who can shead some light - I would appreciate it.
Thamks.
Paul
There is a system pick done in this case. Drivers and maintance staff as well as dispatchers will have to pick their assignments.
They pick in seniority not in the depot but in the system.
Hope this helps
Thank You
BTW-They can only pick within that system which are as follows
1-Brooklyn
2-Staten Island
3-MABSTOA(Bronx and all Manhattan depots except for 126th Street which is a TA depot)
There is no system pick in the Queens Division and 126th Street has only 1 depot
Drivers at 126th Street Depot are included in the Brooklyn system pick.
If any drivers jobs are eliminated due to line changes than the drivers that have no jobs left are placed in the Brooklyn Division.
That happened when the M-22 route was transferred from126th Street(TA) to Hudson (OA)
Thank You
The only exception is going on now as the drivers have a one time chance to pick from Brooklyn,126th Street or the OA but give up their picking seniority
Thank You
Peace
David
Thank You David
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Part Two to come.
After lunch I walked back to the transfer hub and a little later and waited for my bus to come on the number two. I thought I would see Gilligs, but that was not the case all I saw were the SLFs and mini startrans cutways. I didn't even see the Startrans ODV I saw in downtown Washington over a month ago. I got startrans mini cutaway 59 and after passing the airport(not Dullus), it took me to my destination which was the Leesburg premium outlets. I walked around, went into some of the sneaker stores and over to Food Lion and then walked back to get my bus back to the hub to get my bus home. I would have to wait an hour to get my mini cutaway back, so I walked again, this time only taking thirty minutes to get back to the hub. I caught the same bus back, to the connection point to get my FFX connector bus en route home(that being SLF 53).
I waited for the 28B to come, after realizing the 3B would take an hour to arrive towards Rosslyn. Oh btw, 2072 was doing a Wolftrap shuttle run on the same side as the FFX Connector buses are. Anyway, up came a 3B, 8821, with a bike in its rack. That bike belonged to a guy, wearing a hot pink, nylon sweatsuit.......ok....... He wound up getting 3T 9491 with his bike. I then got 2106 on the 28B going to Seven Corners and then getting 4245, on the 4H to Rosslyn. I saw 9211 apparently now at Arlington on a 1 route(not sure of the letter). Also 4381 still had its flag on it probably from either the AAFB shuttles or from the Fourth Of July. I then got 5A bus, 2063, on route to L'Enfant Plaza and had to walk over to catch the 30 bus home. After about 15 minutes, up came 4303 on the 36 I believe and I took that to L'Enfant Square in Southeast, and had to run to get 2444 on the U2 to Minnesota Avenue. After waiting over 20 minutes, up came 2452 on the U8 to Capitol Heights. As the bus was about to leave the station, the bus cut off and took a brief minute before it started up again, not the thing I wanted to happen at about 9:30 at night, mind you now I got my first bus at 6:45 in the morning today.
On route to Capital Heights, a car ran a stop sign, just as the bus was about to pull off. If that bus pulled off sooner, that would have been one terrible accident, the car was going at least 70 mph in a 25 mph zone. We got to Capitol Heights and since I missed the last F14 home, I had to walk about 20 minutes to catch the A12 somewhere near home. After getting there and waiting about 15 minutes, up came Orion VI 2029 on the A12 and that was my last bus home. Oh btw, I had to walk another 15 minutes to go home, tired, with blisters on both feet from walking all day.
I guess since the SLFs only run on the seven on seven route exclusively, they don't need to have the signs programmed, but what if one bus breaks down, what would they replace that with, a mini cutaway? They should have at least another bus to replace that one just in case. As anyone knows I am DEFINITELY not a fan of any cutaway whatsoever, so hopefully in the near future replace those with SLFs, Chance Opuses, El Dorados or another mini heavy duty transit bus.
The routing is kind of odd in that one bus covers at least two routes and what it seems like one bus moves from one route to another instead of one bus running on one route. Also there are very few places that the buses stop, more stopping at exact places on the timetable and the only bus stops I saw was for the seven on seven route. It looks like the way Leesburg is growing, and also Loudoun County, it would seem like that would need to increase service and buy more heavy duty vehicles. They might want to start thinking about that now. I didn't see any Gilligs or Gillig and that if you are brave enough to take the trip down to Leesburg, and get a schedule, the Gillig numbered 45 is all over the schedule.
Overall even though it is a rural transit service, it should be beginning to grow out of its ruralness and grow into a little transit system. I give this TA a D+, the drivers are extremely friendly and they drive fast too and the fact they have SLFs is also a plus.
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
That trip involved rides from Union Station, to Germantown, Md to Herndon, Va [ WMATA D6, then L4, to Red Line, then Ride on 55, Ride-On 75, Red Line, Orange Line, Fairfax Connector 950], then on the way back to DC, I heard of some idiot who got himself killed by a Red Line train [found out on Saturday morning in the Post], so I stayed in VA and rode the 18G to Rolling Valley Mall, then returned on Fairfax Connector 110. After dinner at KFC went back to DC to check out the nightlife at Dupont Circle.
Got back to VA, and crashed at a Travelodge at Richmond Hwy and Huntington Ave.
Saturday morning, hopped on the 9A to Beacon Hill Shopping Center, overate at Shoneys', boarded a Flxible to a point near Ft.Belvior. Got on it going back, then decided to go to Charles County Md.[9a, Yellow Line, Green Line, C18 bus to Waldorf.], went back to DC, rode two Flxs and the famous 4309 to Mazza Gallerie [C18 to Branch Ave, Green Line to Congress Hts., W4 to Anacostia, 90 to McClean Gdns, and 35 to Friendship Hts.] After break, got on Ride-On L8, C2 to PGP, Green Line to Ft.Totten, and Red Line to Union Station when I arrived just in time to get on the 7:25 to Philly, and got home at a decent hour for a change [I usually get home from DC around 12:30 in the morning, I usually take the last train out.] I was home by 10:30 pm and was in MY own bed by Midnight.
Some observations:
1) Washington has become Orion City. There are so many Orions crawling all over the place, no escape from these buses. Also, the more I see and ride the Orion 6, the more I think the bus needs a redesign. At least it`s a better-looking bus than the FUGLY 7.
2) It seems that I was one of 5 people that could speak English on the C2 Saturday afternoon. The whole bus was PACKED with immigrants. It stayed packed from Wheaton, to PGP. That line is EXTREMELY busy.
3) I rode a Flxible every chance I got. I rode mostly B's and E's, and missed a chance to ride a D. Sometimes I got on a bus just because it was a Flxible. Also, I noticed that some of the old 87-8800's were put to work on the weekends. Was it because of they had decent working AC's? Om my trip from Ft. Belvior to Huntington on 4025, the AC failed. Last, but not least, I love the deep growl of those Cummins M11 and L10's. And the Series 50 on the E's are cool too.
4) I guess the worry over other stuff means that enforcement of the HOV2 rule on I-395 is very lax. That lane had as much traffic as the rest of the Highway.
5) Back to Philly, don't you love the new FTC? The buses move much more smoothly than before.
6) Watch out for the SJLRTS. It may surprise some people.
That`s my vacation week. Let's see if I can top this.
2] Pentagon Metro Station [both versions]- WMATA
3] 69th st Terminal - SEPTA
4] Silver Spring Metro Station - WMATA
5] Parsons-Archer Station - NYCT
6] Hempstead Terminal - LIB-LIRR
7] Olney Terminal - SEPTA
8] Newark Penn Station - NJT-PATH
9] Journal Square - NJT-PATH
10] St George Ferry Terminal - NYCT
Jim D.
#8676 - B6
#8679 - B6
Q53, Weekend PM departures from Rockaway Park:
. . .5:00, 5:40, 6:10, 7:00. . .
Who decided that there should be first a 40 minute wait, then a 30 minute wait, then a 50 minute wait? The 6:10 should just leave at 6:20.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
After 2:54pm there is a 70 minute wait for a bus south outta Trash Cove.
And for a few not-so-alert people sitting down this past Saturday, who didnt see the bus coming, they will have to wait another 70 minutes! Trust me, around here, you have got to be alert (that means standing looking in the direction of the bus!)
There are a number of Checker-related websites, including IIRC an owner's club which may have classifieds if you're looking to pick one up. Used to have some bookmarked, but now I can't find them. A few Google searches should turn up something useful.
C
www.regionaltransitservice.com
For those interested in cabs, Checker was the most popular cab for the riding public. They had leg room enough for a man 7 feet tall and you could fit up to 5 passengers in the back. They had a fairly reliable drive train (Chevy 250 straight 6 and Turbohydramatic 400 3 speed automatic transmission.) However, they required alot more maintenance
because:
* They did not have unibody construction and frame to body bolts needed to be tightened up routinely - else the cab would dog track and veer all over the road.
* Sheet metal was very thin and though they looked like a tank, the sheet metal bent and actually broke sometimes - more easilly than any other cab on the road. I saw more than a few with cracks in the front fenders.
* The battery mounted in the trunk tended to leak acid and I actually had one fall through the bottom of the trunk and on to the pavement.
Cabs most popular as alternatives to the Checker during the late 60s, 70s and 80s were mostly Dodge Coronets, Monacos, Aspens and Diplomats with a lesser number of Chevy Belaires, Impalas along with Ford Galaxy, Ford Crown Victorias.
The Dodge in particular was popular because of their nearly abuse proof 225 slant 6 engine. The Chevys had the smoothest ride and the Fords were most affordable as a step up from the Dodge.
These alternative cabs for the most part had sounder body construction and therefore less costly from a maintenance standpoint. Drive trains were as good as the Checker and so they began to erode the market leading to the end of Checker.
www.regionaltransitservice.com
This line, which was contracted out, apparently is now being operated directly by NJT out of the Hamilton garage. That has to be a first for the Wheels lines...
Normally, I wouldn't make this suggestion but this person is making bustalk not as much fun as it used to be. Please ban this person or reduce postings to 5 per day. I've sent this person to killfile and I see at the bottom of my screen "13 messages not displayed because of killfile preference." I think this person sees the computer as a game and loves to send messages.
This person doesn't listen to me nor other bustalkers. I think it's time to do something about this person. Bustalkers have tried and failed. It's now up to you to something about it.
Michael
Washington, DC
Michael
Washington, DC
BTW, He is also bugging SubTalk with his questions.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Michael
Washington, DC
Trouble is, we even need to stop posting to any thread regarding him, as people who crave the attention will also thrive on discussion about them doing so.
Michael
Washington, DC
Peace
David
b1-#9323-NOVABUS
B64-#9299-NOVABUS
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
[A] [A]
[A][R][A]
[A] [A]
[R] [R]
[R] [R]
[W] [W]
A= Amber
R= Red
W= White (Reverse Lights)
This bus also had orange LED destination signs as would be expected of any new bus or retrofit. This was the first of 8 Orion Vs that we will receive over the next few weeks. That was #70. Later that day, we also took delivery of #72 and #73. The order was from #69 - #76.
Image URL: http://busstalker.tecsbrain.org/photos/DASH03OVLIGHTPATTERN.GIF
May I be the first to say, BETTER GET YOUR DASH ORION ONE RIDES IN THEY MAY BE GONE PRETTY SOON.
Who knows, DASH could be taking the realy, really long way to the Bahamas;-)
Wayne
Dan: "A SCRATCH?!! WHAT THE HELL?! THAT'S IT, ORDER'S CANCELLED, TAKE THEM BACK AND SCRAP THEM!"
"OH MY GOD! I CANNOT SEE MYSELF IN THESE WHEELS! I SHOULD BE BLINDED BY ITS REFLECTION! THIS BUS MUST BE REHABBED IMMEDIATELY!"
"Hey our bus has a big dent in the front door area, it is smashed in"
garage foreman says "Does the bus still run"
"yes"
then garage foreman says"WELL SEND THAT DAMN BUS OUT THERE WE GOT PACKAGES TO DELIVER, THE PEOPLE WILL JUST HAVE TO CRAWL IN THE FRONT WINDOW, DAMMIT!!!"
*Garage foreman hands the driver a hammer and walks away*
And yes, same powertrain. The only visible differences are the rear light configuration and the LED signs...and of course the higher numbers.
Dan: WHAT IS THIS? SOME OF THE LED PIXELS HAVE BURNED OUT! WE MUST IMMEDIATELY REHAB THIS BUS!
Second part. Using the subject line "manhattan buses" for each post is aggravating. For this post, use a title like "70's buses at 126th street depot". That way, people know what to expect. Even if your post gives away all the info you want, use it anyway. In that case, use "n/t" in the message column.
And to everyone else: just give him time to mature a bit. I am sure everyone was a little TOO curious when they began. I bet in about a year, he will become the leading authority in the CDTA.
one question CDTA, are you from Albany?
You know damn well you lying about him leading the CDTA Authority.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Wayne
Bus operator rear ended a car, then spun out of control, smacked a divider and was tossed out the door. No one was killed, 6 injuries total including the driver! Other passengers were placed aboard another buses, MCI 102-DL3 #5964 and was taken to thier Manhattan Destinations.
The 9B in question has severe underbody and skirt damage in the front of the bus, probably will be retired. This bus was recently acquired by Coach Leasing from a NJT Auction and was placed at Olympia Trails for the Newark Airport Express Service. Bus was orginally a Lakeland Bus from the NJT Order!
Regards,
Trevor Logan
The first observation was seeing 9711 about to head onto route 410, about a block or two away from Landover garage. I was starting to wonder if what I think was going to happen was happening. I went to the barber, got a much needed haircut, then went up to Beltway Plaza to get fitted for a tux for my cousin's wedding, then after getting some gas, I headed for Frederick County. On the way to Frederick, saw two more I guess now ex-Montgomery 97s heading towards Landover on 495, and they were 9713 and 9707. I then got on I-270 and almost at the Frederick County line saw two DASH 2003 Orion Vs heading south. They were 72 and 73, with 72's destination sign off and 73's saying "TESTING IN PROGRESS". I then picked up a Frederick County map at the 7-11 and then headed to park at the Monocacy MARC station and walked to Francis Scott Key Mall to eat lunch, got some schedules and then headed out to catch the bus.
After a wait I got vintage Orion V 324 on the 20 to the Frederick Transit Station. The reason why I said vintage is this bus was a thirty footer, it doens't have the shortened window behind the driver's side window and it has a DD6V92 engine. The fare is 1.10 and you only get a free transfer, which is given up on the next trip. I got to downtown Frederick and to the transit center, which is very nice place, granted it was done by the MTA. I then got SLF 919 on the 50 towards Frederick Town Mall. This mall is very small and it has a BON-BON which is split department store, mens on one side and womens/kids on the other and also there is a Boscov coming whatever the hell that is. After another wait and an Arby's meal(I couldn't resist Arby's roast beef sandwich) I got 917, another SLF on the 30 back to Frederick Transit Center. I purposely missed my connection back to where I parked to take some pics. I got a couple of the SLFs and a left side, rear and at Francis Scott Key Mall a right side pic of Orion V 324, which I took back to my car.
I got to my car and realized I left the lights on, luckily the car started and I headed home. I took route 355 home and it took me over an hour to get home, it only took me 30 minutes to get to Frederick County via I-270. I passed Montgomery's WMATA garage and saw 9634, possibly just repowered, no ads on it whatsoever. I also past New Carrolton and saw 9708 laying over there and also passing Landover saw 97s lined up at the gate facing Pennsy drive, like they were just delivered.
That was my trip, might have to plan one last DASH Orion I ride and pic session before they go away for good, and of course looking forward to riding the new Orion Vs for DASH.
I Like New Flyers better then NABI.
The Flyers Have a wider foward view, better Seats, and wider doors then the the NABI. but the only thing thats the same here on Valley Metro is No foward facing seating, all seats face the center isle. (foward facing seats on all remaining flyers and all 1999 - 2001 NABI are being reconfigured for the isle facing design)
The 11 MANN Artics Have been shelved for the summer due to No A/C (2 Others Have Artic A/C are still running on 560)
As I understand it, Valley Metro (Phoenix) is the "brand name" for the Regional Public Transportation Authority, which is a similar agency to how the New York MTA is set up. The page below goes into detail about how Valley Metro is organized:
ABOUT VALLEY METRO (opens new browser)
What appears to be happening is that the New Flyers currently assigned to what was known as Phoenix Transit are being transferred to Laidlaw's garage in Glendale. If I understand correctly, the New Flyers are still owned by RPTA, but are now operating in a different division.
At least I think that's how it works...
Valley Metro Buses From Both Contracting Agencys (Laidlaw & ATC/National Express (Phoenix Transit, ATC/RPTA, Forsythe Tempe, Forsythe Mesa, Forsythe Scottsdale) Are Both Shared and matained across All Contractors as needed, however Bus Operators are provided for their own contracted routes.
The City Of Glendale Has Their Own Transit Agency Thats funded and Operated Directly By The City and Operate #70 (Valley Metro), Gus The Bus and Glendale Dial A Ride. all 3 use 9 Passenger Caravans and 19 - 22 Passenger Mini Buses.
ALL the seats face the center aisle? What, do they pack the buses like the New York subway. That's quite a way to lose seating in the already low capacity low floor buses, not to mention that many people prefer forward facing seats (this is the case on our Dorados, where I've seen quite a few people move towards the back section so they can sit in forward facing seats).
Anyway, Valley Metro must be rich, because retiring supposedly good buses such as New Flyers without getting the most out of them is certainly a waste of money. I think Houston put new engines in their buses, RTS 2150 can give you more information on that. I believe it is cheaper to just retrofit their buses - after all, instead of buying new LRVs, SEPTA completely rebuilt their PCC trollies for the 15.
NABI low floors aren't that bad in my opinion...granted, I only rode a few in Miami-Dade's fleet a few years ago. It just seemed farely low in front is all. Granted, that was the first low floor bus I had ever ridden.
The major project now is the upgrade of the 157 1996-1998 New Flyer buses. 4106 is already an HEV vehicle and I wouldn't be surprised to see a few more. But the bulk of the fleet is supposed to get new super clean diesel engines. The Neoplan artics are as well. Supposedly, five of them already have new engines and are pretty fast. The Neoplans had their engines replaced a few years ago in 1998 after they were deemed the slowest buses in the fleet. The RTS would regularly outrun them.
I'm not sure about the New Flyer or NABI... but I do know for the LFS, you can order the front door to be one of 2 or 3 different sizes. Back door as well. I'm sure NF and NABI are the same... build the bus to the TA's specs.
>ALL the seats face the center aisle? What, do they pack the buses
>like the New York subway. That's quite a way to lose seating in the
>already low capacity low floor buses, not to mention that many
>people prefer forward facing seats
We have perimiter seating in the lower portion of our LFS. You really don't loose that many seating, especially when you take the wheelchair seats into account. But you do gain a wider aisle, and more standing room. *shrug*
Also the rear doors on DART's high-floor NABI's are the same width as the SEPTA NABI's.
On the Omnitrans NF buses, why is it that when the front and side signs say "Not In Service," the back sign says "A3"?
In DC, we get all sorts of strange things like this:
(They're all Luminator signs, also.)
Up to this day they still have the zero, although it is covered by the SEPTA decal.
Long live the DKs, the "special" SEPTA Neos
WMATA can have signs on occasion such as /34/, L-2, 0034, 00Q2, and things like that, but that is because the destination and the route are entered separately.
00Q2? Wow, I can understand the punctuations, but not other numbers...that's too much to figure out in an instance, particularly for unfamiliar riders. I'm most familiar with the ...K6 style. I think that's the best and least confusing way to convey the rt number, besides not having any punctuation at all! The Balios signs seem to be doing well, though.
and putting text in various positions. Look at northbound Q10 buses.
Q10 KEW GARDENSSUBWAY
Well, let me add a piece of info. Later, when I see the same bus that had "A3" on the back in regular service, it carries the normal route number (i.e. if it were running on route 8, the back sign would say, "8").
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Idea for SEPTA (of course): Make rt 1 a BRT line! It's an express anyway, and it'd be pretty awesome for riders. New sleek vehicles can be purchased (I looked on the site - some of them even look like LRVs) and it can be our "Roosevelt Blvd Line".
In addition to that, there won't be pathetic excuses to get rid of it, such as "there is a new shopping center and we'd like to connect this route to it" or "they are doing construction somewhere along the line" - just detour it! Also, since SEPTA wants to be a bus dominated company, it would be the perfect transit solution. Hey, High Speed BRT (is that possible?) can be used as the Schuylkill Valley Metro, although DVARP would have a fit, lol.
I saw some Great Neck- bound N20(158)broken down on my two way street, It was all backed up cars and busses alike, everyone was pissed seeing the orange warning triangle behind the bus,
With transportation unreliable like this, I wonder why it exists?
I'll give him his props, I'll stick to my MTA New York City Bus
Budgetwise, LI BUS gets more money that is disproportionate to NYC busses. CNG is costly per bus and more frequent replacement. I've read off figures saying CNG bus is $1.2M VS diesel which is $245,000 per bus.
Also the CNG has to be replaced every 5 years vs the 8 yr or more cycle NYC busses have, LI has luxuries of minibus routes and communications improvements on all vehicles.
I'm surprised that these vehicles aren't updated for all the money they get for fixed route spending.
Sadly anytime a breakdown occurs, it takes a long time for response being that the depots are never in close proximity to the routes.
Other than breakdowns, accidents with other vehicles occur A LOT as well, I've seen the N25 out of Great Neck collide with Nissan maxima as it tried the left onto Northern, I believe it was the last bus in the evening, ----some riders were pissed.
It would be nice if there were auxillary storage and maintenance in Queens, say preserve some 600 series diesel at Casey Stengel and Queens Village since CNG cannot other be stored there.
Then again,thats what LI Bus gets for being anti-Queens
I would like to see:
-Q12 extended local service to Great Neck
-Q92 NEW ROUTE limited-stop on Q12 to Great Neck, IT REALLY NEEDS THIS!
-N20/21 leave routes as is and make a limited stop policy kinda like on the N6 in Queens as well that allows all riders to use.
-NXX NEW ROUTE from Roslyn to Flushing BYPASSING Great Neck railroad
that runs during rush hour only(like N26) and maintains the current LIBUS boarding policy. this is to account for all those N20 bus runs.
Specific to Great Neck -Flushing there should be a play on the QM3,X51 expresses to LI and the QM1A
The truth is after Great Neck its just seen as a combined N20/21 service with variations.
-some busses terminate at Great Neck(stupid as hell)
-some busses go to Glen Cove
-some busses go to Hicksville
-many busses go to Roslyn and beyond(some terminate)
-some busses go to Hicksville and bypass Great Neck
The reality, nobody benefits from the current service on the Queens or LI side
N20/21 suffers from reverse commute syndrome
a typical pm rush from Main St
-a lot of Queens bus leave from the subway packed
-N20/21 at that time sees its ridership FROM Nassau so the busses that leave Main St have a tendancy to be half-empty or OUT OF SERVICE
while city busses are packed, yet the LI busses just go empty without picking up the slack- thats my main critism
- the reverse goes for the morning
First, will it include the franchise corporations and their facilities as well at the time of the merger.
Would this new Queens division take responsibility for routes like the N20 to Great Neck, the N6,22,24 etc, thats if capacity is even available in the depots once the routing in Queens is restructured since there is a lot of incompatibility.
I would think now even LIBUS facilities could be more easily expanded and account for routes like the Q79,Q36,Q85 etc to be taken under their command.
If the last bus breaks down dont they have to get another bus? I have heard people who claim they have had no shows on the last bus on an evening, and they give up after waiting an hour or two and take a cab.
There are alot of accidents all along the North shore. The road congestion is terrible, the roads on the North shore have never been modernized like most elsewhere in the county. And people have a tendency to drive while talking on the cell phone (even though it is illegal).
Heck, I've even seen LI Bus drivers drive while on the cell phone. If police are cracking down on cell phone use, it sure aint making a dent in people driving with that phone up to their face. :-(
And SUV drivers on the cell phone are a commonplace site in Greedvale, and in Trash Cove, quite a scary sight.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
If anyone knows(including Staten Island bus drivers) what times these 4 bus routes will start or end on weekends this September, please post.
8520-8522, 8526-8531, 8534-8539, 8541, 8549, 8553, 8555-8558, 8560-8561, 8563 and 8566 for a total of 26 8500's.
9140-9175, 9177, 9182 and 9184. As you can see, 7 out of the last 10 9100's are now over at Ulmer Park. 9177, 82 and 84 should be sent any day now.
9453, 9459-9461, 9464-9465, 9467, 9469-9480, 9482-9483, 9485-9487 for a total of 23 9400's NOT counting 9453.
9453 should be going to Flatbush any day now, if it hasn't been sent already. Fresh Pond's 9400's will be from 9459-9487, so only 6 more are still to be transferred in to make up F.P.'s full compliment. Any other 9400's that arrive into FP outside of the group I mentioned will be going to FB. Also, note that FP puts FB bound 9400's into service on it's own routes for a day or two until they get around to transferring them over.
Also, as a side note, the only 3900 still on FP's property is 3997. All others have now been sent out to various locations for scrapping purposes.
8153 has been out of service now for 30 days with bad cylinder heads. If it were a 4000, it would probably be on the scrap list also.
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
For Acela: Last I heard FP was just getting 29 9400's. I think GH had 46 so that would leave about 17 to go to FB. I don't know as of now which one's, if any, will be coming in from the Manhattan depots.
BIG AL
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Do You Live In Cliffside Park, I used to Live in Cliffside Park, now I live in Fairview.
Regards,
Trevor Logan
TransiTALK
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Whatever his post quota is, it's still too high. Thank goodness for the killfile.
Michael
Washington, DC
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Also, are you sure NYCT buses are programmed for their respective depots? I doubt that would be the case, especially from hearing about all of the bus moves recently (rooting for the underdog Fresh Pond - congrats on your 9400s!).
Also, I don't know about this, I hope people will correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't NYCT buses programmed for the DOT routes as well? After all, there will be a takeover anyway, and they are technically NYCT routes contracted to the privates.
All destination readings are in all buses. In the event of a route change (e.g. B13 to Gateway Center Mall), however, buses in the affected depot get the updated readings first.
What's unique to each depot is a transfer acceptance table, which is programed into the fareboxes and lists the depot's transfer privileges.
- - - - -
[Also, I don't know about this, I hope people will correct me if I'm wrong, but aren't NYCT buses programmed for the DOT routes as well? After all, there will be a takeover anyway, and they are technically NYCT routes contracted to the privates.]
No, they are technically NYCDOT routes contracted to the privates. Only DOT-owned buses are equipped with those readings.
Notables:
1. For the following trivia, the following routes are grouped together:
F2, F4
J1, J2, J3
70, 71
S2, S4
Y7, Y8, Y9
Z1, Z4
Z2, Z3, Z5
Z7, Z17, Z19
Z9, Z29
Z11, Z13
RO 1, 11
When you are asked to give a number for a "route", each grouping above is one route. (i.e. F2 and F4 are one route)
2. Rideonrules, already knowing some of the answers, may not participate.
And here are the questions! When asking for total numbers, the total is for all services stopping at Silver Spring EXPCET MetroRail and MARC.
1. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a weekday (Monday-Friday?
2. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Saturday?
3. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Sunday?
4. How many TOTAL arrivals and departures are there during a single week (Sunday-Saturday)?
5. Which route has the most arrivals AND deparutes on a weekday?
6. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a weekday?
7. Which route has the most arrivals AND departues on a Saturday?
8. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a Saturday?
9. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a Sunday?
10. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a weekday?
11. TRUE or FALSE? There are more arrivals and departures on a single weekday than on Saturday AND Sunday COMBINED?
Answers will be posted no later than Sunday evening.
Good luck!
NO LOOKING AT SCHEDULES!!! YOU MUST GUESS!!!
1. 1,750
2. 800
3. 400
4. 2,950
5. 70
6. Z19
7. S2,4
8. F4
9. S2,4
10. Same as #5
11. True
Is this your homework or something? LOL
Wayne
9364 is still at Landover, I saw it today at Greenbelt.
I also saw the following FMR buses on Landover routes in the past week; 9745,9750,9752,9760,9762,9776,9783,9784, 9215(as also seen by Wayne), 9230, 9235, 9287(I rode it on the A15 today).
And then Montgomery: 9706, 9707, 9708, 9710, 9721, and 9723
9201 was on the L7 today and 8754 was on the B11.
Wayne
Wayne
Good luck!
All right everyone! The bus station at Silver Spring Station in Maryland is one of the busiest ones in the DC area and possibly even in the United States. It is served by MetroRail, MetroBus, Ride-On, MTA Commuter Buses, MARC, and Shuttle-UM. It is essentially busfan heaven during rush hours and even off hours, too.
Notables:
1. For the following trivia, the following WMATA (unless otherwise noted) routes are grouped together and count as a single route:
F4, F6
J1, J2, J3
70, 71
S2, S4
Y7, Y8, Y9
Z1, Z4
Z2, Z3, Z5
Z7, Z17, Z19
Z9, Z29
Z11, Z13
RO 1, 11
When you are asked to give a number for a "route", each grouping above is one route. (i.e. F2 and F4 are one route)
2. Rideonrules, already knowing some of the answers, may not participate.
3. You may not consult any printed timetables or schedules. You may only consult the map on www.rideonbus.com to see which routes stop at Silver Spring and even that is frowned upon!
4. If any route does not terminate at Silver Spring, it counts as 1 trip. If a route terminates and then originates on the same or a different route, it counts as 2 trips. If a route originates and terminates at Silver Spring, it counts as 2 trips.
And here are the questions! When asking for total numbers, the total is for all services stopping at Silver Spring EXPCET MetroRail and MARC.
1. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a weekday (Monday-Friday)?
2. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Saturday?
3. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Sunday?
4. How many TOTAL arrivals and departures are there during a single week (Sunday-Saturday)?
5. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a weekday?
6. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a weekday?
7. Which route has the most arrivals AND departues on a Saturday?
8. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a Saturday?
9. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a Sunday?
10. TRUE or FALSE? There are more arrivals and departures of all the Ride-On routes that serve Silver Spring COMBINED than there are of Shuttle-UM, MetroBus, and MTA Commuter services.
11. TRUE or FALSE? There are more arrivals and departures on a single weekday than on Saturday AND Sunday COMBINED?
Answers will be posted no later than Sunday evening.
Good luck!
As for the Walkman, I hear Metro trains' electric engine cycles through my headphones when listening to the radio on a Walkman on aboveground Metro track, so I guess lots of things can interfere.
C
It really has NOTHING to do with "interference" with flight systems. It's a MONEY matter.
C
I'm not sure that's true. American Airlines took Airphone out of their planes more than a year ago.
CG
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
We are suppose to get 60 new buses to replace the old 87xx series Gillig Phantoms and the aging Flxible Metros 93xx's. I think this is kinda funny because they are gonna hold on to the 91xx's and 9xx series Gilligs when they should junked these first! The county just took on delivery of twenty para transit vans which are 2003 Ford Econline cut-away buses. These of course will be numbered in the 23xx series so my guess is that the transit buses will come in sometime next year to avoid a vehicle numbering conflict.
I'm hoping for more orion V's coming this way over the Gilligs for many Gilligs are suffering from structual problems... that keep showing up no matter what you do to fix them. Besides the Orions more over heavier duty and much suited for Long Islands crappy roads.
Dave
So one of the number plates of 9575 was gone and then we leave after about 2 minutes so the car climate was above average; to my surprise! We go through the tunnel then after Queensboro Plaza it was time to start the Flushing express on the <7> So we’re going and the T/O does very good through the express run and on the signals I notice that the timers are now equipped with LED’s [the 20mph limit and the “S”] so as I arrive at Main I smell the awful sewage and we get a lights out on the switch; perhaps the last on a ‘Bird L. I get off and I was wondering whether I should take the Q58 or Q44 so I decide to take the LTD & wait a couple of minutes for a Q44 and it’s a rather quick ride via Main St then it takes about ½ hour to get to Sutphin Blvd/Jamaica Av and I have to run for the Q8 and it was nearly packed and these ignorant assholes were trying to fill the front section; you guys know what I mean. Myself and a few others yell at the people to move in then we FINALLY departed. A good ride so far but then things got ugly, and I mean U-G-L-Y! :-0
The B/O tried to bypass a stop on Sutphin Blvd then the lady got real pissed at him and they start arguing about the bypass then insults go by and the tension was getting way up there so they continue to exchange words then he says the bus is out of service at 133 St/101 Av and we stay there for a good 10 minutes with the lights out at one point then after the passengers called him a cocksucker, asshole, and other names we proceed once again on 101 Av then at Lefferts once again we stop for a period of time but this time it was a supervisor talking to the woman so this is about another 10 minutes and this guy next to me kept staring at me so I stared back at him [what an ass I felt like saying something but I kept my cool; I really hate that shit >:-0]. She says that she will take down the bus # and complain and all that..... So then it’s a pretty quick ride to Euclid Av. Its 9:05pm and I run downstairs to catch the C and I just caught it so it’s a quick ride on the Fulton local and I get off at Franklin Av to catch he shuttle and its arriving so we go and the T/O puts the shuttle bus pamphlets where the ads go then we leave & we wait at Botanic Garden for a couple of minutes to wait for the other shuttle to go by and then arrived at PP and the Q diamond came, rode it to my stop then went home.
R40M 4513 Q Diamond
R62A 1815 <7>
R36 9575 <7>
Orion 571 Q44
GBL RTS 1173 Q8
R32 3464 (C)
R68 2922 Franklin Shuttle
R40 4275 Q Diamond
I'll go a little more in depth on the portion of the 7 at ST.
The following day Stephanie Davis replied saying they will NOT hold their festival this year, owing to "our present budget constraints."
The city has yet to decide on their festival.
That weekend the March of Dimes is having another Steeple Cab-Triplex trip.
the video page
Tony M
NJT Bus Operator.
Meadowlands Garage
Peace,
ANDEE
The 500s are the older & have 12 CNG cyl vs. 8 for the others.
Some of the MCIs will be leaving as nycDOT finds a buyer.
The RTS group are in daily service, as are the MCIs that are being retained.
-those buses break down A LOT, and the breakdowns occur on express and local bus routes, I rate them 2nd after Qtraindash's LI Buses
-as far as seats many of the buses in the upper 300 range were alredy covered with vandal resistant cushions like the Orion hard seats, those are the ones trypically seen on express routes
-several buses in the 200 and lower 300 range have cushions put right over the hard seats, they are BLUE and don't have that metal drip-holeamagig in the middle, so the seats are blue with the gray encasement
there are the regular diesels used by Queens Surface, Triboro, and Jamaica with the tail lights horizontal
there are others used by Green bus with the tail lights vertical. Some of these went to Jamaica after the non-CNG Orions came in
there are CNG- RTS buses used by Command and Triboro ,,2 of which came from the MTA
What is unique about the RTS used by Green other than the taillights?
When is Command, Triboro, Green and Jamaica going to rid of its older RTS buses?
All I know is that the RTS from Jamaica Buses have an extra sliding driver's window from the middle to the top of the window. There are still a few of the Green Line and Queens Surface TMCs that were transferred to JB with the original driver's window.
Peace,
Kevin
They must be towed in and out of service on a daily basis?
:o
Cummins M-11/ISM engine,ZF Economat T (HP-590)transmission
Detroit Diesel S50 engine,Allison B400R transmission
Cummins C8.3/ISC engine, Allison VR-731/B400R transmission
Cummins L-10 engine, ANY Allison or ZF transmission
I'm only askin this question because (1) I'm an RTS fan and (2) there are some transit agencies (with RTS's) that may go un-noticed.
Thanks for the help.
Montigue M.
The Central Virginian At Large And In Charge
You would appreciate this; we just got a former Charlottesville RTS at our museum here in Roanoke (Commonwealth Coach and Trolley museum, aka CC&T)...it is no. 819, the very first one delivered there in 1981. That 6V92 sounds REALLY good; we took it out for a test drive last night and I am impressed. It is the newest bus in our fleet!
-Fred
Though it's extremely out-of-character for Detroit, the newest RTSs (3700-3859) have DDC Series 50 and ZF (!) transmissions.
Does anyone have any idea what might have been going on? It's not likely that Orion 151 was really an N58 (with an N20 sign) that was going out of service, because it was carrying passengers, and it was sitting where the N58 discharges at its last stop, rather than further up the curb where the N58 boards to start its run the other way. Could those two drivers have been switching buses? If so, why would they do that?
We've still got power here in DC. I guess if there are blackouts in NYC, no one there can answer this . . . must be crazy.
Be safe . . .
C
Jim D.
chris
Sorry to other Bustalkers for the offtopic post.
C
I was one of the fortunate ones who got the heck out of dodge before all hell broke loose. I was more than halfway home on the 3:20pm Martz bus out of Port Authority. Everything about the ride seemed normal until other bus operators began reporting via two-way radio that there was a power outage in NYC. I really thought nothing of it until people's cell phones began ringing aboard the bus, and people were astonished to hear that there was no power all the way to Canada. So far, all of my family and friends who got caught are doing OK.
As for Martz, I was on one of the last buses to make it out of the Port. There are two 3:45pm buses, and a 3:35 bus from the Wall Street area. Those three should have made it out ok. After that, you can forget it! The 4:15 buses from the Port and the 4:05 from Wall Street are probably still in Manhattan.
I'm both sorry and glad at the same time that I can't really give any one the scene reports. I just pray for those that were stuck on the subway.
Mark
I was on a LIRR diesel train headed for Bay Shore. We kept going, as we had just cleared Babylon. Funny thing is, the crossing signals worked...they are powered by batteries at trackside (they use public power only to charge those batteries) so we made it to Bay Shore.
Got off the train, geez, it was dark at the station!!!! Luckily I lived only a mile away, but it was a tad more difficult without any lights to guide my way.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
But the pictures I am seeing on TV are unreal! Hang in there NY and everywhere else affected.
Mike
This was a real crazy experience alright. Don't count on the subways for the AM rush b/c it will not be running for several hours and the TA said that there is no way that they could have enough shuttle buses for all its routes. You don't have to go anywhere stay home!
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Joe Butler
Note: This chat uses a different name than the normal chats.
10)THE BUS merchandise-do you really think someone will go around touting THE BUS.
9)Artics and CNGs-not crowded enough and does anyone really want to see THE BUS run CNGs(new look insert picture here, LOL!!!).
8)63020's dent fixed-no comment
7)Real Coordination schedule-wise with WMATA- Doesn't THE BUS gets the hint when passengers bypass their vehicles for old Flxible Bs
6)Service on weekends-WEEKENDS, WHAT WEEKENDS!!!
5)Service after 8pm-T/As run buses after 8pm, HOW LUDICRUS!!!
4)Respect-can't even spell the word
3)MTA Stickers on their buses-Hey even MTA have standards
2)Programmed signs-Hey we can't even work the roll signs DAMMIT don't put that new fangled crap on us
1)REAL BUSES-Oh we thought the startrans were real buses, that is why we buy them all of the time, so there are bigger type buses, WHOA, that is scary and by the way, what is a DD50 engine.
I am sure other DC bus fans will have more to add.
Ok, ther are two scenarios that could occur here:
1. A representative from PG County The Bus points to a WMATA C40LF:
"What do you mean we need to run gas buses? See, they use gas too, just like our vehicles!"
2.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
I thought that I would be nice to let you know (which everyone already knows), buses are running (and they are free)and NJ Transit buses to the PABT are going through Staten Island and Brooklyn following the NYCT express buses. Why? The Lincoln Tunnel is backed up for about an hour! Also, no NYCT express service through NJ! So, NJT buses in Brooklyn?.....history in the making! However, ALL NJ Transit buses are leaving Manhattan via Lincoln Tunnel. Also, the PABT is closed so 8th Av is closed in front of the PABT for the NJ Transit buses to pick up passengers along 8th Av. Last time I checked, that's what was happening.
As for me in Southampton, Long Island I got my power back at 2:02 AM this morning and Southampton College got their power back about 2:48 AM. No Long Island RailRoad at all especially going westbound but limited shuttle buses going eastbound from Jamaica to poimts east! Suffolk Transit and MTA Long Island Bus are running but no traffic lights in some parts on the East End. Southampton has their lights due a generator. I'll keep you all posted especially on the East End transit!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!
I am planning to attempt calling Chapter 11 Choo Choo later today but as of now, Monday's trip is still on as scheduled. Either Brian or I will post if there are any changes to this plan. As a reminder, the meeting place is at the route 49 stop at the Glenmont Metro Station in Maryland (OK South Ferry, you can't say you don't know where Glen) at 8:30 AM. Please e-mail me or Brian to let us know if you are coming and if you are coming by bus and you know you will be arriving shortly after 8:30, tell us! We can only wait for you if we know you are coming.
Once again, stay tuned for any changes, they will be posted here if necessary!
Definately coming:
Chapter 11 Choo Choo
WMATAGMOAGH
Operational Engineer II
New Look Terrapin
Aznboy405
Possibly coming:
R30
David Greenberger
Aerotech Shuttle
Also, once the NJT buses come into Manhattan, are they going to the Bus lots around the PABT or they are going back to NJ Not In Service?
Thanks in Advance!!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
I Stayed out a extra two hours, being the ONLY Rockland Coach bus running after 10pm doing shuttles Between W 178th & Broadway and Jersey!
Which was my Idea, the company didn't know what to do, I called them and told them I'll stay out a few more trips they were like, THANK YOU!
I carried over 300 people for the day which my daily average is anywhere from 80-120.
And prepping to go out there again for some more action in another hour!
Wish Me and all the other operators in NYC and NJ Luck!
Regards,
Trevor Logan
Rockland Coaches Operator
You are the man as well as the rest of the bus drivers! This is why you guys should not have any problems getting raise but the same New Yorkers and people from new Jersey always complain, "It is not right for bus drivers to strike!!!" SHUT UP!!!! You guys do more than anybody else! Hence my signing off phrase under my name (RESPECT.....)
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY.....AND NEW JERSEY!!!!!
Well, for everyone like Trevor, there are at least 10 disgruntled, pissy, apathetic, non caring, misinformed, uneducated, and/or misguided drivers...
Sorry, but that's how I feel, being a transit fan from the DC area, where I see ALOT of this unacceptable bus driver behavior go down.
It was an event.. and evidently.. continues..
Peace,
Kevin
Jamaica Buses Operator
Peace,
Kevin
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
NJT's website is mentioning that NJTBus, Academy, DeCamp, and all Coach USA divisions are accepting NJT Rail passes. Trevor, are you getting many Pascack Valley customers?
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
On SI I saw almost all of the Orions out - 100s, 400s, 500s, 6100s-6300s, RTSs, and the MCIs - including #2838 on the S78 to Tottenville.
Heard there were MCIs waiting in Brooklyn at the foot of the bridges waiting to pick people who walked to go to SI, as well as Brooklyn.
Anymore interesting sights??
"Subway Shuttles" along Queens Blvd covered by JA/QV/CS (including MCIs), plus one Hudson Pier bus.
Yet the M86 was still running its usual artics, mostly empty.
The buses I saw running on there where:
5503,9292,9495,9006,649,9635,8648,9628,9506,9560
I rode 707 on the Q60 and it was PACKED!!! And this bus was only stopping at subway station stops after 78 Ave and the crowds where fine and only one complant about a guy trying to get on at 78 Ave and he cannot fit in and a passenger was telling him to use the back door but did not listern. Walked back from Forest Hills to home.
Then I went back to Forest Hills and got 243 on the Q60 and it was not packed and no problems there. Then I took 9560 on the Shuttle makeing stops at all Q60 stops and I got off at 83 Ave.
I saw 4918 with the X63 HEADSIGN FOR MIDTOWN!!! And I did see an OrionV being used with an X68 HEADSIGN FOR MIDTOWN!! Both going west on Queens Blvd, 4918 was around 10:45-11 AM and that OrionV was around 3:20 PM! At around 11 AM I saw an Nova RTS Suburban signed up as a X63 TO ROSEDALE WITH PEOPLE ON IT!!
Also at 10:27 AM I saw 721 signed up as a OUTBOUND QM18(QM18 LEFFERTS BL)!! That had 5 People on it when I saw it
And some buses on the shuttle where useing "NOT IN SERVICE" signs(Mostly on Midday Shuttles) and alot of buses where packed!
B1-#9324-NOVABUS
B3-#9103-NOVABUS
B64-#4783-TMCRTS
B63-#606-Orion V CNG-REPOWERED
B41-#9450-NOVABUS
B3-#9080-NOVABUS
B1-#9320-NOVABUS
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Where were the gosh darn buses? No contingency plan for a blackout, I see.
Shame on the MTA bureaucracy.
therefore I would think conserve fuel,otherwise the pumps won't work
David
it sorta explains the holdup on shuttle buses for LIRR though I think a bus service along Queens Blvd would be direct replacement for EFRV service if it were more efficiently organized
Additionally, NYCT supplemented LIB with MCI Cruisers to Montauk, the Hamptons and (I believe) North Fork points east.
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!
Most of the buses you saw were pulled from feeder routes* and placed into a reserve queue for emergency shuttle service that had yet to be determined. In fact, buses were indeed "at the ready" for the masses, depending upon where you were and what you saw. Manhattan Division brought approximately 3,000 passegners into Queens and dropped them off at the Jamaica LIRR station, where New York City Transit in conjunction with Long Island Bus dispatched divisional railroad line service, as appropriately necessary.
*(A feeder route is a bus route that primarilly serves a subway station. Since the subway was not running, these routes were placed into the non-priority queue, whereas lines that serve main corriders [Northern Blvd, Hillside Ave, Flatbush Ave, Grand Concourse, Richmond Av/Rd, etc] were given added and extra service to help the masses move longer distances without benefit of the subway system).
There are now two such phases of these commuter shuttles in-place:
1- Penn Station to Jamaica, LIRR
2- Penn Station to parsons/Archer.
The Jamaica Shuttle avails transfers via LIB to points east. The Parsons/Archer Shuttle avails transfers to the rest of eastern Queens.Local customers must make use of regular local service buses which means making three or four transfers to get to your final destination. However, NYCT will continue to operate buses fare free until the subway has reached 100% capacity.
HTH?
#4955 - B42
#4959 - B60
#5005 - B82
#8679 - B6
#8688 - B6
Don't travel if you don't have to, but the MTA is providing the best and most innovative services RIGHT NOW that will all disappear when the trains come back. The MTA, despite numerous hurdles, continues to keep everyone moving and they are doing a monumental job. I even saw Access-A-Ride buses fueling at various depots today.
Good job MTA.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
supposedly some went through the Midtown tunnel, possibly LIE-Van Wyck
though some may have taken Qnsbr Br through Queens Blvd
since there weren't any scheduled drop-offs in Queens, the arrivals at Jamaica were scattered, some I saw on Sutphin Blvd coming from Queens Blvd(X63)
This afternoon, the 5:29 1C that passes by my office came at 5:54, but hey, it was Friday, who cares? I guess if it wasn't 95 degrees out, it would have been a little better, but oh well. Got to Ballston and I caught 4069 on the 24P to Pentagon City. While waiting, I saw 9454 on the 23A heading to Crystal City and 9425 on the 23A to Tysons Corner. I'm not sure where those guys came from. Also saw 8757 on the 23C. Had 9482 on the 22F coming home.
The lack of 9700's is very evident now. I did see 9781 today on the 25B, but not too many others.
I get on brand new Orion 7 7616; the highest # O7 I have seen to date and it was nice and cold J and the new smell was present . So we’re going via Church Av and its around 4:30pm and they STILL did not have power east of E 16 St so most of the shops were closed and cops were directing traffic at Ocean and Flatbush Aves and I could see that the lights were still out as far as Nostrand Av. So getting off at Flatbush Av, I see 5117 and the bus is packed; as I expected and then we depart after about 5 minutes. As we go northbound there were no LTD’s in sight so I suspect that it was suspended and there were no light signals in operation until after Empire Blvd and we went through the park at 45mph and the normal traffic/congestion was basically not there. Then 2 41’s came from behind and passed us and I get off at Nevins St to catch either the B26 or B52 to Ridgewood so I let the 26 go and decide to take the 52 since I didn’t really want to deal with the Wyckoff Av stretch on the 26. Fulton Mall is mostly closed and I get on the B52 and its slow going at first but upon running via Gates Av we go pretty good for the rest of the ride and after B’way the kids put on the hydrants to keep cool [I don’t blame them 8-)]. I get off at the last stop and I see the Q58 arriving on Palmetto St and I get 9472, the first GH transfer I rode on a Brooklyn route.
We go pretty smoothly in the Ridgewood portion, look at Fresh Pond depot and saw a stalled, dark M train at FP Rd station and we’re going and to my surprise the bus doesn’t get as crowded as I thought it would. On Corona Av it’s a bit slow with the traffic and at Queens Blvd I saw shuttle buses replacing QB service and the buses were being run from JAM as far as I could tell. Anyway we continue then we go on my favorite stretch on the Horace Harding/LIE and we got some good speed there and it takes about 10 minutes to complete the ride and I went the distance on it. I get off and I just caught the Q44; 570 nice and cool then we go good on the run. Going via Main St is pretty good and we bypass 256 and 299 which were Q20’s and on Queens Blvd got a nice stretch and I arrive at Sutphin Blvd/Jamaica Av to take whatever Queens-Brooklyn bus comes first so a Q24 comes up and it gets packed up then we depart. At first its good but as we head via Atlantic after Lefferts Blvd, the ride gets slower since the 24 & 56 were basically carrying J train passengers and I sit on the back seat and its burning my ass, OUCH >:-0. Got off in front of the East New York depot and 8910 is parked at the B12 stop and I see that 8119 is now repowered.
A couple of minutes later I hop on the bus and it’s a rather quick ride and at Howard Av the light patterns were staggered so we miss 2 lights there but then our trip continues and we get a good crowd at Utica Av then we proceed onto ENY Av and miss 2 Troy Av lights [this usually happens]. Afterwards it’s a smooth ride to Nostrand Av and then I see that I missed four B44’s but a 44 LTD comes I hop on it and there’s some gridlock but after Church Av it’s a nice run then miss the light at Clarendon Rd and I see the B8 just make the light turning off of Av D and I have to run for 953 since it was just about to leave and a couple of us get it and still beat the signal. A cold bus we go smoothly and I see that the power was restored in the Flatbush area and then I get off at my stop and go home. Man, a very crazy day indeed and B/O’s used different methods to cover the fare box; from duct tape to cardboard to a stretched plastic bag :-P.
NOTE: As of 9:30pm buses will still run for FREE until there is at least some train service restored which won’t be there until at least sometime tomorrow but expect extensive crowding and delays. Most of the PABT is still closed and people will be let off at 8 v and 40-41 St and you board NJT buses around there too. For the 5 boroughs all of Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island have power while now practically all of Manhattan and Brooklyn has restored power so we’re almost there guys :-D. We may get the subways running by tomorrow morning.
RTS 9100 B68
Orion VII 7616 B35
RTS 5117 B41
RTS 8141 B52
RTS 9472 Q58
Orion 570 Q44
RTS 5219 Q24
RTS 8910 B12
RTS 5122 B44 LTD
NF 953 B8
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY, NEW JERSEY, WESCHESTER AND LONG ISLAND!!!!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!
Instead, it should have run to the 165th Street Terminal where transfers to just about every bus eastward may be obtained. Then, all Teardrop local buses should have been rerouted near/along/adjacent to the 165th Street Terminal rather than Parsons/Archer.
Yes, it would have been congested, but it could be done, and would have availed a transfer to every eastern Queens bus line in service, as well as all LIB routes barring the N4 (which also could have been routed into or near the terminal).
OR
The shuttles could have made a second stop at 165th Street Terminal.
Verrazano-Narrows Bridge
One lane of the lower level of the Brooklyn bound Verrazano-Narrows Bridge will be closed around the clock for roadway deck replacement. One lane closed around-the-clock on the Staten Island bound lower level for bridge painting.
Triborough Bridge
Roadway deck construction on the main suspension span and Queens viaduct of the bridge is scheduled to progress to the next lane on Friday, August 15th.
One lane of the main suspension span will be closed around-the-clock. This deck replacement project, which includes the Queens Viaduct and suspension span of the bridge, is scheduled for completion in July 2004. Four lanes of traffic will be maintained in the peak direction and three lanes of traffic in the off-peak direction during construction.
Motorists are advised to expect delays as one Manhattan bound toll lane of the Triborough Bridge will close to traffic around the clock for four months for roadway joint replacement.
Motorists from Queens and the Bronx heading to Randall's Island must keep to the right on the approach to the exit ramp to Randall's Island and follow the posted signs and directions of the toll plaza personnel.
One toll lane of the Queens and Bronx bound toll plaza from Manhattan is also closed to traffic around the clock as part of the same project.
Throgs Neck Bridge
Two lanes closed for bridge painting Monday to Thursday nights starting at 10:00 PM until 5:00 AM the following morning and Saturday from 12:01 AM to 6:00 AM.
Bronx-Whitestone Bridge
One lane closed in each direction weekdays from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Motorists are advised to divert to the Throgs Neck Bridge, if possible, during these periods.
Henry Hudson Bridge
Friday, August 15th to Saturday, August 16th:
Motorists are advised to expect delays as roadway deck repairs on the bridge will close three toll lanes in the Bronx bound direction starting Friday night at 9:00 PM (Four toll lanes open in each direction.)
Saturday, August 16th:
Two northbound toll lanes to the Bronx closed (five toll lanes open) all day Saturday. All southbound lanes to Manhattan re-open at 4:00 PM on Saturday.
Sunday, August 17th to Thursday, August 19th:
One northbound toll closed around the clock (Six toll lanes open ) from 6:00 AM Sunday to 3:00 PM Tuesday.
One lane in each direction is closed around-the-clock for painting. Three lanes will be open to traffic in the southbound direction and two lanes will remain open in the northbound direction throughout the project.
Two toll lanes closed southbound to Manhattan, Monday thru Friday, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. (Five toll lanes open)
Two toll lanes closed northbound to the Bronx, Monday thru Friday, from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM. (Five northbound toll lanes open).
Brooklyn Battery Tunnel
The Tunnel is open to all vehicles with the following restrictions:
One tube closed Sunday from 12:01 a.m to 8 a.m. for deck rehabilitation. Two way traffic will run in the other tube.
One lane each way is closed Monday to Friday from 9:00 PM to 5:00 AM for roadway rehabilitation.
The HOV-3/E-ZPass Lane from the Verrazano-Narrows Bridge to the Tunnel is open weekdays from 6:00 AM to 10:00.AM. Cars using this lane must have three or more people and E-ZPass.
Q32#666
Wish I had known that Friday night; I took the Queens Blvd shuttle to the Q44.
Bx5????
Q44#536
Q24#4964
B20#9461
Thursday morning, long before the blackout occured, I saw an RTS on the Q44 Limited. I honestly don't remember the number. It was 9XXX, so it could've been from Jamaica, QV, or even possibly Fresh Pond.
Which bus routes are the MTA talking about?
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!
Ozzy Zamora
MTA NYCT Traffic Checker
Ultimate fan of Miami Dade Transit
Yeah, this from the TERRORIST sign changer.
Peace,
ANDEE
I got off at City Hall to wait for the B-51 to Brooklyn and got on the bus at City Hall. It was a new Orion CNG 7607. The bus was packed from the first stop and could not pick up anyone else.
Got off at Tillary Street and Cadman PLaza West to board the B-41 which were plentiful at 7:30AM believe it or not. The bus i got on did not have a full load even but i noticed Tillary Street bound buses were packed. The only eventful ride on the B-41 was a detour because of a fire at Flatbush and Parkside Aves.
I got off the B-41 at Flatbush and Glenwood and boarded a New Lots bound B-6 which had plenty of seats. Noticed some buses on the B-6 were Nostrand Ave bound only and were from Flatbush.
I was under the impression from David that they were no Flatbush buses on the B-6 during the summer(David Please check) peak hours
I got home at about 8:35AM
Good job by the DOB
Thank You
The first bus that came was a B-82 so i rode it all the way(Never did find an open resturant or supermarket ) but the B-82 ran beautiful. The bus even caught its leader and he was not driving fast at all.
BTW the turnaround at Canal Ave is very unique and i understand why the TA is extending the B-82) Took the same bus home .
Later on i took the B-6 to Coney Island and Ave J and then boarded a Bartel Prichard bound B-68. i noticed some Ulmer Park buses being used on the entire B-68(runs 104 and 107 specifically). Found an open Mc Donalds had something to eat and went home via the same 2 routes and had my lights back.
I was talking to a B-6 driver and i asked him how it was going.He said it was OK except they wanted him to be on schedule but how could a Limited run operate on schedule when he had to make all stops.
I asked him what happened to the F Line Shuttle drivers and he did not even know
Did the F Line Shuttle operate?
Also an outstanding well done to the DOB. All drivers i observed were operating very carefully.
Thank You
David
Thank You for the information.
Sorry for the misunderstanding
Thanks again
Roslyn Clock Tower (with N21 bus heading to Glen Cove)
LI Bus, with Not In Service sign, late night in Rockville centre (where there was power)
An NYCT MCI Cruiser, doing emergency shuttle bus service, in Hicksville
Roosevelt Field mall, where power is on, but shoppers are away
More pictures at http://www.imagestation.com/album/?id=4289386379
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Brooklyn & Manhattan non-MABSOTA (TWU)
Staten Island (ATU)
Queens (ATU)
That is, if I go from Queens to Brooklyn I go to the bottom of the Brooklyn seniority list.
Please clarify. Thanks.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
I have seen the following buses on the shuttles:
Northern (2100s, 5300s, 4000s, 8958, 4101, 5200s)
Southern (2100s, 4200s)
Landover (4200s, 8800s, 9200s, 9600s, 9700s, 9800 surburbans)
Bladensburg(5200s seen only, no CNGs)
Western (9200s-cummins and DDs, 8800s)
Royal(9355)
These are shuttles that I have seen running in front of my house to Landover Mall, not including the ones that run to the Landover and Addison Road Station.
Next week, the Redskins play the Ravens, wouldn't it be interesting to see MTA buses along with WMATA buses. That didn't happen the last time those two teams played and I HIGHLY, HIGHLY doubt that would happpen for a pre-season game.
That is it for now, back to eating and bus watching.
Wes Samuels
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
1. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a weekday (Monday-Friday)? 3082
2. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Saturday? 1773
3. How many TOTAL arrivals AND departures are there at Silver Spring on a Sunday? 1354
4. How many TOTAL arrivals and departures are there during a single week (Sunday-Saturday)? 18537
5. Which route has the most arrivals AND deparutes on a weekday? S2/4 (276) followed by 70/71 (240) and then Ride-On 15 (209)
6. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a weekday? Ride-On 3 (6)
7. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a Saturday? S2/4 (255) followed again by 70 (174) and Ride-On 15 (147)
8. Which route has the fewest arrivals AND departures on a Saturday? Ride-On 18 (29)
9. Which route has the most arrivals AND departures on a Sunday? S2/4 (191) followed yet again by the 70 (164) and 15 (124)
10. TRUE or FALSE? There are more arrivals and departures of all the Ride-On routes that serve Silver Spring COMBINED than there are of Shuttle-UM, MetroBus, and MTA Commuter services. FALSE
11. TRUE or FALSE? There are more arrivals and departures on a single weekday than on Saturday AND Sunday COMBINED? FALSE
If any of you pondered the answers but didn't post, I hope you had fun.
Reminder, WMATA trip tomorrow meeting at Glenmont at 8:30 AM.
Well what a week, huh? Well, my comments are not about the Blackout of 2003 itself, but the respect and credit were it is due!
Like 9/11, bus drivers got NO respect by anyone during this blackout. On 9/11, yes the police officers, firefighters and emergency workers get their respect but it was the bus drivers and other MTA workers who got the people (mainly at the South Ferry area) out to safety. On a bus and off to the East Side!
Well, the blackout occured and again the bus drivers and subway workers got the people to safety! The bus drivers have been busting their asses trying to get the people home or where they had to go.
I commend the following:
Operational Engineer II, DHF60, Q5Merrick, BIG AL, David, NYCT Traffic Operator, MDT route29 9037, Flxible870B, Fairviewfinest, Brooklyn67, Express Driver and anybody else that I did not mention! These guys talked about working during the blackout. Operational Engineer II said that he continued to work after his shift.....I know 2 out of over 5,000 bus drivers who would bring the bus back to the depot and go home. DHF60 said he spent 7 hours and 20 mins going from 126th St to Chinatown! That's dedication. He could have pulled over and stopped but nope, he did not!
My point is this.....I'll give credit to the MTA New York City Transit (and private routes), NJT (and IBOA as well as suburban companies like Red & Tan, Academy, Community Coach, etc.), Long Island Bus, Bee-Line Buses of Westchester County, NY Waterway, LIRR and Metro-North and more for there efforts during the blackout! Without the buses, the city would be at a standstill and you know New Yorkers would be complaining about that!
So, thank you guys for ALL of your good quality work You deserve the respect but New Yorkers do not give it!
Also, history was made during this time. NJ Transit buses travelling through Brooklyn in to Manhattan like the NYCT SI and Brooklyn express buses. Also, NJT buses in Queens! Artics in Queens (a preview maybe?). So, we went through a lot this week...what will next week bring?
Thank You
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF "THE TRI-STATE TRANSIT AUTHORITY" (That includes all the TA's in the area)
NYtimes
-transitblog.com
That said, I'd suspect if Mexico City is like other cities in Mexico, the bus fleet down there is fairly old. I've seen pictures of a lot of GM and Flx New Looks running in Tiajuana.
The newer Des Moines MTA buses had panic buttons that would change the headsign and use the vehicle location system to signal the dispatcher. Of course the AVL was in-op the whole time I was there. But there was a radio procedure in place that I won't go into on a public board just in case.
Funny, the rear electronic sign on the D60HF was big enough to fit "Call 911". Of course the only times I saw the system in action were accidental triggerings.
Mike
B60#4543
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
In my walk to Main Street station, where there's an all-night newsstand, I noticed several delis and bodgeas were open and able to cook. Lines went out the door. It appeared that a lot of people were going to work- or possibly coming home from work. The QBX1 to the Bronx was extremely crowded. Even the 25s to and from College Point were busy. Many drivers and dispatchers were milling around by the taped-off subway entrances, which some people were attempting to go into. I heard some saying that the Bronx, at least on the other side of the Whitestone Bridge, was back on line. Several police officers were directing traffic. The perennial Flushing stench seemed worse than ever.
The newsstand only had a couple of NEWS and POSTs. Being a creature of habit (and a compulsive slug), I HAD to get NEWSDAY. With absolutely nothing else to do, I boarded a fairly crowded, but wonderfully cool 1995 Orion Q44 towards Jamaica. Since NEWSDAY's Queens offices are in Kew Gardens, I figured I'd be able to get a copy at a newsstand around there. The fare box was taped over, but that didn't stop some people from trying to pay. Neither did the driver continually repeating "Free!"
Traffic along Main Street was fairly light, but there was a huge crowd waiting in front of New York Queens Hospital. When we passed Reeves Avenue, the beautiful sight of working traffic lights greeted us. All the stores in Kew Garden Hills were open and busy- it looked strange to see neon signs again. Unfortunately, when we got to Union Turnpike, the power was down again. Two fairly empty Kew-bound Q46s were waiting: a 7000-series Remain and a '99 Nova. I got the latter for a very fast trip through the interchange and uphill to Kew.
The lights on the NORTH side of the overpass, in front of the Pickman tower, were working. Looking northwest on the Boulevard into Forest Hills revealed the same. But the lights on the SOUTH side, by Borough Hall and the Q10 arcade were DARK. A very crowded Jamaica-bound Q60 pulled up in front of the Chase bank, and loads of people got off to change to other buses- especially the 10. There were about six or seven 10s lined up down Kew Gardens Road. They seemed to fill up fast. Could JFK have been open for employees?
Found NEWSDAY in the newsstand by the arcade, then got a Q74 (a rare hard-seater rather than a Suburban Orion, the only thing I've seen on the 74 in months) back to Kissena. The lights for the intersection of the eastbound service road and Kissena were lit, but apparently stuck on red and green for Kissena and the service road respectively. The lights across the overpass for the westbound service road were still out. Somehow I managed to walk through all this alive. I found a working pay phone in the Exxon station (cell phone STILL not working!) to inform the wife of my whereabouts. She questioned my sanity and asked me to look for a place to get milk.
After a long wait, a '96 Nova Q17 came. The lights at Kissena and Booth were out, but all the others from Laburnum on downtown were working. I got off BEFORE the LIRR trestle rather than endure the tortuous left turn from Main to Roosevelt, and barely caught up with an Orion on the Q34. Out of reflex, I walked to the back without paying, but the driver reminded me. He said fares were still being charged regardless the TA policy. Funny, but earlier that morning I saw people getting on a Jamaica-bound Q65 across the street without having to pay! So what gives?! Since I carry a Premium Transitchek, it didn't matter. But a little consistency would've been nice.
By the time I got home at 9:00, power was fully restored- but the cable and AOL weren't. The latter two meant absolutely nothing to me at that point.
I started out by taking the B8 and asked the B/O on the New Flyer bus if the X27 or X28 was running. He told me they were running AND there was no fare collected on the bus. So I took advantage of the morning rush by zipping on the B8 to Cropsey and changed for the X28 to Lower Manhattan. As the headways promised, it was barely a minute passed when I saw two OTR buses coming my way. Both were X28's (I needed to get to Lower Manhattan) and I didn't bother to see if any X38's were coming. I had a nice comfortable ride into Manhattan, the bus was not even half full when we were at the last pick-up stop near Nathans at 86th st in Bay Ridge. No traffic on the Gowanus and we zipped through the HOV lane into the Brooklyn Battery Tunnel. These buses are well worth the money invested by NYCT, they are comfortable and you can have a decent view of the front window (I sat by the W/C entrance at the middle of the the bus). However, the Manhattan side of the BBT had no tunnel lights on and I realized that some areas of lower Manhattan were still not on.
I got off at Battery Park, walked around Bowling Green and hopped on the S.I. Ferry to go there. The Herbert H. Lehman car boat has a total of 30 passengers on board and barely twice as much during the inbound AM rush when I saw the crowds get off the boat before boarding. Nice view and ride to St. George terminal where I went downstairs for the SIR to catch to Grasmere (later on I could've used Old Town station, the next stop for both the S53 AND S79 back to Brooklyn). As usual, the SIR is the slowest line in the NYC area, these sluggish R44 cars can only top out at 34 MPH (I looked at the speedometer on the T/O cab, while looking out through the anti-child peephole). We arrived at Gramsere, the 1933 building and structure needs some work at street level but it's a decent station there. I took the S53 over the Verrazano and waited at 92nd st/Bridge entrance ramp for NEARLY AN HOUR until three B8 buses showed up. It was a nightmare unfolding at each stop closest to a subway station along the B8, too many people were jamming up the bus and the B/O told them to use the back door (and you know some people didn't listen). Back home it was a bit tiring because of the heat, but it was nice for a quick excursion when you have no money in your pocket (for the SIR, if you don't have a Metrocard, simply walk to Tompinksville station. )
Great to have NYC back from the third blackout in 38 years.
For me, this is the greatest thing, cuz I know will have a bus rite near my house, about half, maybe a quarter a mile away. I just wanna know if anyone else has heard/read about this and when it'll start runnin.
See this N23 schedule from the MTA LI Bus website
No, not really. All of my friends think Glen Cove sucks. There are reasons why Glen Cove is bad, isolation and poor development planning are some of the factors at work.
"Since you're so dissatisfied with where you're living, why not apply for a transfer?"
I have, been waiting for 3 years.
I'm sure LIB has their reasons for extending the N23, but I'm quite suprised they never got around to getting service on Forest ave. Perhaps I'm judging LIB too quickly on this, knowing Glen Cove, NIMBY's could be stopping improvements. After all they are big pest in my area, perhaps we can get some NIMBYKILLER up here. :-)
Also did I mention Glen Cove is a ghetto?
Sure looks like a mess to me.
I don't see many areas in Queens that look like those picures, with trash laying around and homeless people
NIMBY? there trash in peoples backyards
Now I see why you call it "Trash Cove", I never realized the N21 went to sucha ghetto, The N22 goes through a ghetto
Good luck on searching a new residence, try Kew Gardens, Rego Park,
I would dream to have a condominium there, sometimes the new ones are around 80K, pretty low for Queens
And there's only a broken wooden fence between the sidewalk and the junk yard. Can you say, health hazard?
"They run a route extention that doesnt really go anywhere"
One, it's not an extension, and 2, it does go somewhere. It branches off the N23 at harbor rd and mill pond to loop around and meet back with the N23 at weber middle school. Once turning right onto Harbor Rd., it goes along the pond, past a bunch of lower economy houses and the water district(hey, there's 2 bus stops), then past starks carpet factory, past the Texaco station and through a part of the industrial zone(Hey, there goes another stop or 2), then past the projects(guess wut, another stop), then to Port Washington BLVD. Once on Port Washington BLVD, it passes a bunch of more houses. Hey, lets through a stop in at Sandy Hollow Rd and then at Longview. That'll serve some more people as well. Then, to top it all off, IT GOES TO THE TRAIN STATION! Gee, well, that wont serve anyone. WRONG! Most of the people that work at the industrial park come from the train station.
"It doesnt serve any new additional commercial areas, nothing is up near Harbor rd except woods and mansions."
Like I said, you're thinking of Harbor Acres, the rich people neighborhood. I'm talking about Harbor Road that goes through the industrial area. It does pass the entrance to this area though, but so wut, put a stop there anyway.
Mineola on the mainline LIRR, many LI bus routes
Roslyn on the Oyster Bay branch, the N20/21 as well
Port Washington on the self named
Does the new service proposal involve sending altenate N23 buses along the new branches or is this a new route to bring more buses between Roslyn and Mineola
If this new service is really added in, it will greatly help many people. I know of a lot of people, and have seen even more, that walk every morning from the projects, about a mile to the bus stop. This new route will stop(most likely) right infront of the parking lot.
The one stop I'm really hoping for is at Sandy Hollow Rd/Harbor Rd(Harbor Acres/sands point). This would be right near my house, meaning not having to drag my heavy backpack to school everyday(or atleast not the whole way).
Any word on this yet?
Yes, the Sands Point Preserve. But the bus isn't gonna go anywhere near that part of Sands Point. An extension up to there would be good though. Not for all those rich arrogant assholes, but for the people that work at those houses. It'd work really well. I just really hope this rush hour route thing is true, cuz it'd be a great way for me to get to school every morning.
-Adam Moreira
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Yes, it's rush hour only
Not according to the late Alfred Hitchcock. He put Glen Cove on the country's map with "North by Northwest".
the buses are generally meant to bring people to places of work and business
If you had to move to the location in Metro New York that was the most accessible in terms of transportation,where would this be IN YOUR OPINION in terms of,
multiplicity of options-several local bus routes or subway lines like in Chinatown
tired options in price and duration of travel-eg, having local bus/subway,express bus, and LIRR all in one spot like in Flushing
---------also you have MTA LI Bus
Personally, I like Flushing because there is a mix of everything in terms of price and everything is frequent
It would be nice if the LIRR ever invented a part-time extension to Roosevelt Field but that is only a pipe dream that will never happen.
But seriously, any info on this new route?
1-there are more 8600's to arrive-so far Ulmer Park has 20 with another 10 to come in. My hope is it will be #8690-#8703 from ENY.
2-Ulmer Park is trying to remove the 4700's,4800's and 7500's from service. So far, #4754 and #4755 are removed from Ulmer Park and were headed to Staten Island. The driver also mentioned #4760-but i saw this one on the B74 today, so if im wrong on the other 2, i'm sorry.
3-did see #9181,#9182 and #9178 today.
BB-#2357-NOVABUS-30FOOT
S46-#6266-Orion V
S53-#6196-Orion V
B64-#7521-REMAN RTS
B68-#4777-TMCRTS
I don't recall off the top of my head if Broadway Bus operates both 30- and 40-ft Novas or if it's just 30-ft Novas. Bear in mind that there are other IBOAs operating in the City of Bayonne.
Just wondering, how long of a walk over the Bayonne Bridge is it to Staten Island?
Bayonne has one of the worse transit systems hudson county. While the Hudson Bergen Light rail is a blessing, it only covers two stops on the east side of town. The Light Rail on my GPS reaches speeds of 55.2 miles per hour along the route making it the fastest mode of transport to Bayonne.
The Broadway bus runs every half hour and I constantly see many people waiting for that bus to pick up passengers. Since I'm a bike commuter, I never take the Broadway but those who use it have my sincere condolences. The only bus company that provides adequate service is the #10 provided by the Drogin bus company. New Jersey Transit is basically a commuter line that operates once every hour during the weekends.
To think there was a time when a train used to run across Broadway all the way to the Kill Van Kull! How I long for the days when a Trolley used to run on Broadway!
Furthermore, there is no bus system to take you over the Bayonne Bridge. Neither New Jersey Transit nor the private bus company will take that route. It's a travesty that people need to walk across that bridge into Staten Island but that is the case.
I have to wonder how much of that is the inter-agency turf wars between NJT and MTA. Still, a regular bus connection between SI and Bayonne (at least to the LRT system) would seem to make sense...
The MTA never crossed into New Jersey from Statin Island.
A proposal for rail traffic to cross the bridge never occured.
It is the job of New Jersey Transit to do so and not New York City Transit.
NJ Transit already has federal approval to operate bus service interstate. New York City Transit currently does not. Even though several TA express routes operate via New Jersey they do not make any stops within New Jersey and hence federal approval is not required.
It will be easier for NJ Transit to operate such service and fares can be worked out in a way that New York City Transit currently works with the NYCDOT local routes
Thank You
Kathleen Middleton's book Bayonne has a picture of what appears to be Broadway on the front cover. You can see the trolley tracks going down the street.
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/075240069X.01.LZZZZZZZ.jpg
Also, in "Bayonne, NJ Passages" mentions a train that travlled down Broadway with a picture of the cars.
Steve.
Tony M.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
Since grammar is so important to you:
You're looking for answers the wrong damned way; by nagging us with questions, you will get killfiled or yelled at! I'm trying to help up...And Grammar includes sentence structure and what not; you jumble everything up into one sentence, and nobody knows about what the hell you are talking.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
1) CDTA: you do realize people are making fun of you, right? I am trying to be helpful and give you positive advice, yet you have not done much to help yourself. In order to help yourself, you must first contribute to a conversation. It can be anything! An observation, opinion, or even a website can help you go a long way to being a respected member. Do not worry about your grammar; once people start accepting you, the grammar issues you have will become accepted. So, what I would like to see you do is to answer a question before you answer one. If you need to speak to me or something, just make a post "to TRK", and I will email you. Don't worry, I am here to try and make you feel accepted. I hate people ganging up on someone for the sole reason is that someone may post a bit too much. That is just not polite.
I am sure that at one point or another, we have all asked too many questions. I remember annoying many bus drivers and railroad employees when I was 11.
AcelaExpress2005 - R160
AAAAHHHH, more to see tomorrow.
Z3
Z3 LIMITED-STOP
Z3 BEREAU OF
Z3 ENGRAVING
(blank)
and the usual displays from a Vultron. We wound up at Silver Spring just after 6 PM, Chris and Ray were very happy about that.
I also took 9413 on the T2 this evening. The block was for Montgomery but all the scheduels on the inside were for Western routes including the E6.
I've always been a fan of a nice one seat ride rather than being forced to take the subway the rest of the way. I still think it was a horrible idea to have the 87 terminate at Greenbelt rather than just go to DC like it used to. Although it might be longer in some cases, I'd stay on the bus in a heartbeat. I've always been more pro bus than pro rail anyway.
Wayne
If we all join hands and block the Helldorado from entering Medical Center, then what can he do? Run us over?;-)
Wayne
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Regards,
Trevor Logan
Mark
Regards,
Trevor Logan
53 EXPRE]
With the bottom half cut off, right?
When I saw it, it had
39 FOREST
with the bottom half cut off.
On Monday, I got to take a good look at #3001, running on the Q53 route. Here's what I found out. First, take a look at this picture:
http://transferpoint.bravepages.com/museum/transit_pictures/20/16.jpg
As you can plainly see, #3001 has the standard 16×112(?) Luminator flip-dot sign.
Upon looking at the bus on Monday, I noticed that the sign was displaying "Q53 Rockaway Park," with part of the word "Park" (which is on the bottom line) cut off.
At this time, it was departing from the Woodside terminal, 61st Street & Roosevelt Avenue, and I was crossing Roosevelt Avenue to get to the post office. As the view angle of the sign changed, I could see more and more of the "Q" in front of the "53." This brings me to the conclusion as to why only part of the sign can be seen.
My conclusion is that the window in front of the sign has a mask opening that is smaller than the full size of the sign.
Enjoy!
As always, information is subject to change based on the fact that buses move on a daily basis, this is effective as of today. Also, on the Artic Garages, we have the routes listed according to standard bus lines and artic bus lines, however as we all know, artics have been subject to use on other lines. I will place a (A) by the standard lines that are subject to artic usage.
(TA) Queens Division
CASEY STENGEL DEPOT
123-53 Willets Point Boulevard, Flushing NY, 11368
Routes: Q12, Q13, Q14, Q15, Q16, Q26, Q27, Q28, Q32(w/HUD), Q44/20, Q48, Q74, Q76, X51
Number of Buses: 232
1993 Orion V: 101-119, 122, 138, 144, 146, 154, 227-232, 256-316. (91)
1994 Orion V: 400-401. (2)
1995 Orion V: 404, 425, 452-456, 535-542, 544-580. (53)
1996 Orion V: 631-680. (50)
1999 Orion V: 6120-6141. (22)
2000 NF D45S: 996-998. (3)
2002 MCI D4500: 2897-2907. (11)
Stengel Out of Service: 232, 633 (Fire), 668 (Fire).
JAMAICA DEPOT
165-18 South Road, Jamaica NY, 11436
Routes: Q3, Q4, Q5, Q17, Q42, Q77, Q84, Q85, X63, X64
Number of Buses: 193
2002 MCI D4500: 2850-2878. (29)
1984-85 GMC RTS: 3469, 4019. (2)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4333-PA4336, PA4340, PA4344, 4345-4347, 4352, 4484, 4499, 4555, 4558-4561, 4564, 4568-4571, 4575-4577, 4579-4582, 4584, 4585, 4587, 4589, 4590, 4594. (35)
1996 Nova RTS: 8939-8978, 9051, 9053-9056, 9065, 9070, 9072-9073, 9262-9269, 9278-9281, 9285, 9291, 9345-9349. (68)
1998 Nova RTS: 9535-9568. (34)
1999 Nova RTS: 5145-5169. (25)
Jamaica Out of Service: 4554 (Scrap), 4595.
Museum: 1059 (1961 GMC TDH-5301)
QUEENS VILLAGE DEPOT
222-22 97 Avenue, Queens Village NY, 11429
Routes: Q1, Q2, Q30, Q31, Q36, Q43, Q46, Q75, Q79, Q83, Q88, X32, X68
Number of Buses: 244
1995 Orion V: 505-534, 611-630. (50)
2002 MCI 4500: 2879-2896. (18)
1990 TMC RTS: 8352, 8355-8396. (43)
1996 GMC Reman: 7001-7016, 7018-7037. (36)
1996 Nova RTS: 9250-9251, 9252, 9253, 9254-9255, 9256, 9257-9258, 9259-9261, 9286-9290, 9292-9294. (20)
1998 Nova RTS: 9350-9381. (32)
1999 Nova RTS: 4900-4944. (45)
Village Out of Service: 510, 4429 (Scrap), 4501, 7004, 7021, 8360.
Museum: 3100 (1956 GMC), 100 (1959 GMC TDH-5301), 5117 (1964 Flx), 4727(1970 Flx)
_______________________________
(TA) Brooklyn Division
EAST NEW YORK DEPOT
1 Jamaica Avenue, Brooklyn NY 11206
Routes: B7, B12, B14, B15, B17, B20 (w/FP), B25, B42, B45, B60, B82, B83, Q24, Q56
Number of Buses: 282
1986 GMC RTS: 4359, 4360, 4393, 4394, 4408, 4410, 4411, 4413, 4414, 4416, 4417, 4418, 4420, 4421, 4422, 4424, 4425, 4428, 4430, 4431, 4543. (21)
1987 TMC RTS: 4629, 4631-4635, 4637, 4638, 4641, 4642, 4872. (11)
1990 TMC RTS: 8090-8097, 8100-8129, 8340-8350. (49)
1994 TMC RTS: 8690-8703. (14)
1996 Nova RTS: 8899-8923, 8925, 8927-8929, 8931-8936, 8938, 9030-9033, 9035, 9036, 9040-9041, 9052, 9057-9064, 9066-9069, 9071, 9074-9076. (62)
1999 Nova RTS: 4945-5024, 5205-5249. (125)
ENY Out of Service: 8923 (Accident).
Police: PA1712, 3922.
Museum: 313(1917 Double Decker)
Training: 4949
FLATBUSH DEPOT
4901 Fillmore Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11234
Routes: B2, B31, B41, B44, B46, B47, B49
Number of Buses: 274
1985 GMC RTS: 4214, 4215. (2)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4301, PA4302, 4437, 4439, 4440, 4441, 4444, 4446, 4450, 4452, 4458, 4464. (12)
1987 TMC RTS: 4600, 4602, 4604, 4614, 4616, 4618-4628, 4654-4657. (20)
1990 TMC RTS: 8018-8032, 8045, 8066, 8073-8074, 8088, 8130, 8137-8138, 8140, 8142-8146, 8148-8150, 8154, 8156, 8159, 8162-8165, 8317-8339. (62)
1993 RTS: 8401-8439, 8441, 8443-8444, 8447-8448. (44)
1997 GMC Reman: 7000, 7500-7510. (12)
1998 Nova RTS: 9382-9443, 9448-9449, 9452-9455, 9457, 9459. (70)
1999 Nova RTS: 5075-5124. (50)
Flatbush Out of Service: 4469 (Scrap), 4602, 4627, 8143 (Blown Engine).
FRESH POND DEPOT
6699 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood, NY 11385
Routes: B13, B20 (w/ENY), B24, B26, B38, B39, B48, B52, B54, B57, Q54, Q55, Q58, Q59
Number of Buses: 246
1987 TMC RTS: 4659, 4663, 4665, 4666, 4672-4674, 4676-4679, 4681, 4683, 4684, 4686, 4688, 4695, 4696, 4701, 4702, 4704-4710, 4712-4714, 4716-4725, 4728, 4729, 4731-4734, 4736-4740, 4743-4749, 4832, 4833, 4890. (61)
1990 TMC RTS: 8000-8017, 8131-8136, 8139, 8141, 8147, 8151-8153, 8155, 8157-8158, 8160-8161, 8166-8171. (41)
1993 TMC RTS: 8520-8522, 8526-8531, 8534-8539, 8541, 8549, 8553, 8555-8558, 8560-8561, 8563, 8566. (26)
1996 Nova RTS: 9140-9175. (36)
1998 Nova RTS: 9460-9461, 9464-9467, 9469-9480, 9482-9487, 9569-9605. (62)
1999 Nova RTS: 5055-5074. (20)
Fresh Pond Out of Service: 3902, 3997, 4367, 4380, 4382, 4390, 4552, 4698 (Scrap), 4715, 4741.
NYC Mobile Bus Command Center: 4149 (1985 RTS-04)
JACKIE GLEASON DEPOT
871 5th Avenue, Brooklyn NY, 11232
Routes: B8, B9, B11, B16, B23, B35, B37, B43, B51, B61, B63, B65, B67, B68, B69, B70, B71,B75, B77
Number of Buses: 324
1999 NF C40LF: 800-856. (57)
2000 NF C40LF: 857-989. (133)
1994 Orion V CNG: 317. (1)
1995 Orion V CNG: 581-610. (30)
2002 Orion VII CNG: 7560, 7562-7616. (56)
1987 TMC RTS: 4643-4651, 4658, 4660, 4664, 4667, 4668-4669, 4671, 4682, 4693-4694, 4699. (20)
1993 TMC RTS: 8449-8450, 8453, 8455-8457, 8460, 8518, 8519, 8523-8525, 8532, 8533, 8540, 8542-8548, 8550-8552, 8554, 8559, 8562, 8564-8565. (30)
Gleason Out of Service: 908, 909, 965, 7560 (@ Orion)
MetroCard Sales: 1291, PA2504 (Two 1981 GM-RTS-04)
Training: 949, 8518, 8519, 8678, 8679.
Hospital Audiences Bus: PA1848, 4219.
Museum: 1201 (1981 GMC RTS-04), 2969/4789 (1948 GMC), 3758 (1963 GMC TDH-5303), 5227/4401 (1970 GMC T6H-5305A), 6259 (1956 Mack), 8466(1966 GMC TDH-5303), 8928 (1968 GMC T6H-5305A).
ULMER PARK DEPOT
2449 Harway Avenues, Brooklyn NY, 11214
Routes: B1, B3, B4, B6, X25, X27/37, X28/38, X29, B36, B64, B74, F Shuttle
Number of Buses: 289
2000 MCI D4500: 2755-2804. (50)
2001 MCI D4500: 2165-2209. (45)
2002 MCI D4500: 2908-2924. (17)
1985 GMC RTS: 3962, 3969, 3970. (3)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4330-PA4332, 4497. (4)
1987 TMC RTS: 4742, 4753-4756, 4759, 4760, 4762, 4764, 4767, 4769, 4771, 4772, 4774, 4775, 4777-4783, 4785-4787, 4789, 4790, 4792, 4854, 4855, 4857-4863, 4865-4867, 4869, 4871, 4874. (43)
1994 TMC RTS: 8671-8689. (19)
1996-98 GMC Reman: 7017, 7512, 7513, 7516, 7518-7526, 7528, 7531-7534. (18)
1996 Nova RTS: 9077-9110, 9176-9185, 9295-9341. (91)
Ulmer Out of Service: 2763 (Accident), 4758 (Scrap), 4791 (Scrap), 4768 (Scrap), 4868 (Scrap).
@ Zerega: 2185 (Damaged at WTC, To be re-stored/repainted), 9317
Training: 9100, 9302.
Museum: 236(1980 Grumman 870)
BUSES STORED IN BROOKLYN
CARLTON YARD
Carlton Avenue & Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn
55 Buses
RTS & Orions: 473, 3918, 3986, 3995, 4045, 4116, 4141, 4217, PA4300, PA4307, PA4327, 4349, 4379, 4433, 4445, 4468, 4478, 4479, 4483, 4528, 4537, 4605, 4640, 4680, 4700, 4703, 4711, 4727, 4730, 4765, 4794, 4812, 4815, 4827, 4847, 7511, 7514, 7515, 7517, 7527, 7529, 7535, 7541, 7555, 8206, 8223, 8226, 8273, 8351.
MCI: 1908, 1936, 2100, 2139, 2161.
CROSSTOWN STORAGE YARD
Commercial & Box Streets, Brooklyn
26 Buses
RTS & Orions: 3503, 3529 3893, 3907, 3920, 4045, 4115, 4163, 4165, 4198, 4218, PA4308, PA4309, PA4319, PA4320, PA4324, PA4325, 4362, 4461, 4508, 4538, 4548, 4811, 4813, 4873, 4877, 4883, 4886.
_______________________________
(TA) Staten Island Division
CASTLETON DEPOT
1390 Castleton Avenue, Staten Island, NY, 10310
Routes: S40/90, S42, S44/94, S46/96, S48/98, S51/81, S52, S53/93, S54, S57, S59, S60, S62/92, S66/67, S74, S76, S78, X10/11, X12/42, X13, X14, X16, X18, X20, X30
Number of Buses: 339
1993 Orion V: 132, 134, 137, 139, 162, 165, 166-172. (12)
1995 Orion V: 471-472, 474-504. (33)
1999 Orion V: 6142-6326. (185)
1998 MCI 102DL3: 1990-1997, 1999-2039. (49)
1999 MCI 102DL3: 2040-2074. (35)
2002 MCI D4500: 2825-2849. (25)
Castleton Out of Service: 168, 2014 (Accident), 6204, 6291.
NYPD: 3307 (ex-#4505, 1986 GMC-RTS 06)
YUKON DEPOT
40 Yukon Avenue, Staten Island NY, 10314
Routes: S55/56, S61/91, S79, X1-9, X15, X17/19, X21/22, X31
Number of Buses: 360
1993 Orion V: 121, 123-131, 137. (11)
1999 Orion V: 6327-6349. (23)
1998 MCI 102DL3: 1860-1989. (130)
1999 MCI 102DL3: 2075-2139. (65)
2000 MCI D4500: 2705-2754. (50)
2001 MCI D4500: 2140-2164. (25)
2001 MCI D4500: 2805-2824. (20)
1985 GMC RTS: 3901, 3949, 3960, 3972, 4129. (5)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4342. (1)
1987 TMC RTS: 4893-4897. (5)
1990 TMC RTS: 8293-8315. (23)
Yukon Out of Service: 124, 4894.
@ Carlton Yard: 1908, 1936, 2100, 2139, 2161 (To be sent to MCI for repairs).
Museum: 2151 (1962 GMC TDH-5301), 7340 (1973 Flx)
_______________________________
(TA) Manhattan Division
126 STREET DEPOT
2460 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10035
Standard Routes: M31 (A), M57 (A), M66, M116
Artic Routes: M15, M35
Number of Buses: 180
1990 TMC RTS: 8172, 8175, 8180, 8181, 8183, 8185, 8188-8191, 8193, 8195-8197, 8199, 8200, 8212-8222, 8224-8225, 8236-8240, 8242-8243, 8246-8249, 8285, 8288-8289. (40)
1993 TMC RTS: 8440, 8442, 8445, 8446, 8451, 8452, 8454, 8458, 8466, 8468, 8469, 8471, 8472, 8477, 8478, 8483, 8487. (17)
1996-98 GMC Reman: 7038-7049, 7536-7540, 7542-7545, 7547-7550, 7552-7554, 7557-7559. (30)
2002 NF D60HF: 5526-5617, 5619. (93)
126th Out of Service: 7546 (Scrap).
_______________________________
(MaBSTOA) Manhattan Division
HUDSON PIER DEPOT
11 11th Avenue, New York, NY 10011
Routes: M6, M8, M9, M11, M14, M16/34, M21, M22, Q32 (w/CS)
Number of Buses: 174
1987 TMC RTS: 4795, 4797, 4798, 4799, 4801, 4802, 4803, 4805, 4806, 4809, 4814, 4817, 4818, 4819, 4821, 4822, 4825, 4826, 4829, 4835, 4841, 4842, 4844, 4845, 4848-4851, 4878. (29)
1990 TMC RTS: 8173, 8178, 8179, 8198, 8201-8205, 8207-8211, 8227-8235, 8241, 8244-8245, 8253-8261, 8283. (36)
1993 TMC RTS: 8459, 8461-8465, 8467, 8470, 8473-8476, 8479-8482, 8484-8486, 8488-8517. (49)
1998 Nova RTS: 9488-9534, 9606-9618. (60)
Pier Out of Service: None
MANHATTANVILLE DEPOT
666 West 133rd Street, New York, NY 10027
Routes: M2, M3, M4, M5, M18, M60, M101, M103
Number of Buses: 238
1998 Orion VI HEV: 6350-6353. (4)
1999 Orion VI HEV: 6359. (1)
1986 GMC RTS: 4486, 4494, 4509. (3)
1990 TMC RTS: 8250-8252, 8262-8272, 8274-8282, 8284, 8286-8287, 8290-8292, 8353, 8354. (31)
1995 Nova RTS: 8750-8751. (2)
1996 Nova RTS: 8752-8806, 9007-9028. (76)
1998 Nova RTS: 9619-9654. (36)
1999 Nova RTS: 5025-5054, 5125-5144, 5170-5204. (85)
Manhattanville Out of Service: 8271 (Accident), 8290 (Accident), 8994(Accident).
Museum: 1000/8602 (1966 GMC TDH-5303), 7144 (1956 GMC), 9098 (1956 GMC).
MICHAEL J. QUILL DEPOT
525 11th Avenue, New York, NY 10036
Standard Routes: M10, M20, M27/50, M30, M42, M72, M96/106, M98, X26, X90/92
Artic Routes: M23, M79, M86, M102
Number of Buses: 286
1997 NF D60HF: 1000-1069. (70)
1998 NF D60HF: 1070-1071. (2)
1999 NF D60HF: 5407, 5509. (2)
2002 D60HF: 5511-5525. (15)
1993 Orion V: 120, 133, 135-136, 140-143, 145, 147-153, 155-161, 163-164. (25)
1994 TMC RTS: 8600-8670. (71)
1996 Nova RTS: 8924, 8926, 8979-9006, 9029, 9034, 9037-9039, 9042-9050, 9186-9228, 9270-9272, 9273, 9274-9277, 9282-9284, 9342-9344. (87, 14)
Quill Out of Service: None
100th STREET DEPOT
Lexington Avenue & East 100th Street, New York, NY 10036
Artic Routes: M101-103
Number of Buses: 96
1997 NF D60HF: 1000-1028. (28) (Currently @ Quill)
2002 NF D60HF: 5526-5593. (68) (Currently @ 126th)
_______________________________
(MaBSTOA) Bronx Division
AMSTERDAM DEPOT
1381 Amsterdam Avenue, New York NY, 10027
Routes: BX6, BX15, M100, M104
Number of Buses: 109
1995 Orion V: 415-418, 420-424, 426-451, 457-464. (43)
1999 Orion V: 6054-6119. (66)
Amsterdamn Out of Service: None.
Training: 461, 6070.
GUN HILL DEPOT
1910 Bartow Avenue, Bronx NY, 10469
Standard Routes: BX8, BX14, BX16, BX17, BX26, BX27, BX28 (A), BX29, BX30, BX31 (A), BX34
Artic Routes: BX4, BX5, BX12, BX22, BX39, BX40/42
Number of Buses: 307
1999 NF D60HF: 5250-5406, 5408-5424. (174)
1993 Orion V: 174, 177, 179, 181. (4)
1995 Orion V: 402-403, 405-412, 465-470. (16)
1984-85 GMC RTS: 3906, 3965, 4145. (4)
1986 GMC RTS: 4510. (1)
1990 TMC RTS: 8033-8044, 8046-8065, 8067-8072, 8076-8087, 8089, 8174, 8176-8177, 8182, 8184, 8186-8187, 8192. 8194, 8210. (61)
1996 Nova RTS: 8888-8898, 9229-9249. (32)
1998 Nova RTS: 9444-9447, 9450, 9451, 9456, 9462, 9463, 9468, 9481. (11).
Museum: 2124 (1938 Yellow Coach Double Decker)
Training: PA2342 (1981 GMC RTS-04), 5250, 9466.
KINGSBRIDGE DEPOT
4065 10th Avenue, New York NY, 10034
Standard Routes: BX3 (A), BX7, BX10, BX11, BX13, BX18, BX20, BX32, BX35, BX36 (A)
Artic Routes: BX1, BX2, BX9, BX41
Number of Buses: 296
1998 NF D60HF: 1072-1109. (38)
1999 NF D60HF: 5425-5508. (84)
1984 GMC RTS: 3474. (1)
1986 GMC RTS: PA4326, 4399, 4400, 4402, 4404, 4449, 4451, 4453, 4517, 4520. (10)
1987 TMC RTS: 4609-4612, 4615, 4843, 4853. (7)
1996 Nova RTS: 8807-8887, 8930, 8937, 9111-9139. (112)
1997 GMC Reman: 7551. (1)
1998 Nova RTS: 9655-9699. (45)
Bridge Out of Service: 3562 (Scrap), 4372 (Scrap), 4613 (Srcap), 4840 (Scrap, 5492 (Accident).
Training: 8854-8856, 9655
MOTHER CLARA HALE DEPOT
721 Lenox Avenue, New York NY, 10039
Routes: M1, M7, BX19, BX21, BX33
Number of Buses: 138
1993 Orion V: 173, 175-176, 178, 180, 182-226, 233-255. (73)
1995 Orion V: 413-414, 419
1999 Orion V: 6000-6055. (56)
1998 Orion VI HEV: 6354. (1)
1999 Orion VI HEV: 6355-6358. (4)
2002 Orion VII HEV: 6365. (1)
Hale Out of Service: 6365 (@ Orion).
WEST FARMS DEPOT
E.177th St & Devoe Ave, Bronx NY
Routes: BX6, BX8, BX11, BX14, BX15, BX17, BX19, BX21, BX27, BX31, BX35, BX36
Number of Buses: 214
1995 Orion V: 402-403, 405-424, 426-451, 457-470. (43)
1999 Orion V: 6054-6119. (66)
1990 TMC RTS: 8033-8036, 8038-8044, 8046-8048, 8050, 8054-8065, 8067-8072, 8076, 8078-8089. (45)
1996 Nova RTS: 8888-8898, 9111-9139, 9229-9249.
AGAIN, ALL INFO IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE, I can not stress that enough!
Regards,
Trevor Logan
TransiTALK
Anyways, nice job Trevor AND M.H. on a job well done!
Ray
RESPECT THE BUSES OF NEW YORK CITY!!!!
B68-#4667-TMCRTS
No need to scream…
local bus, Q25/34 though these are one route,Q65,Q66,Q65A,Q101,Q102etc.
express bus, QM1,QM1A (super express), QM2etc
though a route like the Q69 doesn't appear
QM2 Bayside
QM2 6th Ave
QM2 Clearview
Note, the roll signs don't designate the Clearview Express as the QM2A. It is simply the QM2 to Clearview.
This is to inform you that, yes, there are new Gillig Phantoms (built this year) running in my state (particularly my hometown of Charlottesville). Here are the specifications:
Transit Agency running them: University Transit Service
Year: 2003 (durr....)
Powertrain: Cummins ISL engine/Allison B500R transmission
(that's what I heard from mechanics)
HeadSign: Luminator Horizon
Fleet #'s: 6136-6336 (3 total)
This order was intended to replace the oldest buses in the UTS fleet, buses 5139-5337 (1983 Orion I with DDC 6v92/Allison HT-748 powertrain). However, according to the UTS general manager, bus 5337 will be the only 5xxx series bus kept, because the other 2 buses are being "dressed down" (stripped of stripes, name, and some paint), then either sold or scrapped for parts.
As for them shiny, good lookin', brand-new Gillig Phantoms, I have 2 sounds of buses 6136 and 6236. I have taken a couple of pictures as well. However they will not be available untill I get back to Richmond (because that's where I currently live) and I won't be leaving my hometown (which is SWEEEEEEEEET!) for a good 2 weeks.
Now as for UTS altogether, this is what their roster looks like as of NOW:
1983 Orion I (Bus 5337 ONLY)
1985 Orion I (Buses 8138-8338)
1987 Orion I (Buses 1137-1437)
1996 Gillig Phantom (Buses 2136-2536)
1999 Blue Bird Q-Bus (Buses 3136 and 3435)*
1999 Thomas TL960 (Buses 4136-4636)
2001 Gillig Phantom (Buses 2636-2936)**
2003 Gillig Phantom (Buses 6136-6336)
*Bus 3136 has suburban style seating.
**These are (from what I have knowledge of) the only 4 buses with a DDC S40E/Allison B400R powertrain. If anyone finds anymore GP's with the same powertrain, TELL ME!!!!!
Well, I have to go scram for now, but I try to get back with ya'll folks later.
Adios Amigo,
Montigue M.
BTW - Steinway Transit and Queens Transit were owned by the Salzburg family who sold both companies to the Burke family who formed Queens Surface Corp to legally acqire the business of the 2 companies.
Steinway also ran the QM1 and QM1A. Queens ran the QM4. I'm not sure about the QM2 and QM3.
Queens Transit operated local routes Q25/34.Q65,Q65A,Q66,Q67,QBx1 and express routes QM2,QM2A,QM3 and QM4 and were based in College Point.
The Salzberg family maintained them as two seperate companies until 1986 when they were merged into one company which was known as Queens/Steinway Transit.
In 1987 the Salzberg family wanted out of the business and the City looked at several alternatives
1-was the MTA taking them over completely
2-was that Triboro Coach taking over the express routes and the TA taking over the local routes
3-Complete takeover by Triboro.
Finally John Burke who i believe was the General Manager of Queens/Steinway Transit formed Queens Surfice Corporation and took over the lines and the city owned buses and leased the company owned buses for 1 year until new equipment arrived in 199(the current MCI one doors 900 to 949). The consolidated company was moved to College Point and i believe that New York City purchased the Queens Transit facility which was later closed when the DOT built the current facility down the block
The Salzberg family retained control of the Steinway Transit garage and approx 50 to 75 GMC fishbowls which were later sold
Thank You
I stand corrected
Thank You
Thank you
I've never ridden CDTA so I don't know how service on the 85 could be improved. You've ridden the line -- do you have any ideas?
Here's a quick summary based on the 1940 map:
Avenues:
#1 - Now M1
#2 - partially today's M2.
#3 - now M102
#4 - now M103
#5/#6 - now M6
#7 - now M7
#8/9 - gone
#10 - today's M10 and M20
#11- now M11
Crosstown (all still virutally unchanged except for #12)
#12 - gone
#13 - now M8
#14 - now M14
#15 - now M23
#16 - now M16/M34
#17 - now M79
#18 - now M86
#19 - now M96
#20 - now M116
#21 - now M21
#22 - gone
TB - now M35 (no Bronx leg, Astoria leg now M60)
The only rule here is, no asking noone else or looking at bus garage roster sheets.
The quiz is in what garage did these buses begin their WMATA careers, buses that WMATA bought, remember that when trying to figure out these.
2099
2145
3918
3900
5001
5158
6529
7401
8924
9444
Have fun :-}
2099-Southern
2145-Montgomery
3918-Bladensburg
3900-Bladensburg
5001-Bladesnburg
5158-Landover
6529-Bladensburg
7401-Northern
8924-Northern
9444-Montgomery
2145 Montgomery
3918 Either Bladensburg or Western
3900 Bladensburg
5001 Bladensburg
5158 Bladensburg
6529
7401
8924
9444
2099 | Bladensburg
2145 | Montgomery
3918 | Western
3900 | Western
5001 |
5158 | Southern
6529 | Hmm . . . one of WMATA's predecessors, so it would be an inherited yard
7401 | Good one. Which yard go the AMGs first, I wonder?
8924 | Four Mile Run
9444 | Montgomery
2099-Southern
2145-Montgomery
3918-Western
3900-This one threw some off, but this one was Four Mile Run. This one and 4200 were not part of the 262 order(or maybe they were just given a different fleet number, but they were the last of the 1998 Orion Vs to enter service, I think around early 1999 when they entered service.
5001-Bladensburg
5158-Landover
6529-The wording on this one was not done correctly. It was supposed to be worded to be a trick question, in that since this bus was not an original WMATA bus order but was received as part of the buyouts of the privates in the early 70s.
7401-Royal, this one is coutesy of Motor Coach Age
8924-Northern
9444-Montgomery
The second part will come up later tonight
1C Ballston got the most 7 out of 9
rideonrules was next with with 4 out of 9
E450Aerotech was next with 3 out of 9 but got extra credit by figuring out that 6529 was not an original WMATA bus order
WMATAGMOAGH got 2 out of 9
Here a hint for origins part 2, one is not even a WMATA fleet number.
-Adam
(enynova5205@aol.com)
Q67-#490-Orion V CNG
Q67-#463-Orion V CNG
Sorry about my tardiness:-). I actually forgot to request that day off. Normally it's no problem, but with the students returning, pesky viruses and other stuff I've been earning my pay and 3 other people. I'll e-mail you later today or tomorrow.
Wayne
Man!!!
BTW, my friend waited at 32d St and 7th Ave for 4 hours that night (along with hundreds if not thousands of other people) to get a bus to Queens. The bus she boarded had no Rt number or destination sign and no fares were collected. NYCT yay! Bee-Line boo!
Any driver that gave out free rides on Thursday without permission did the people of the city a great service that could have come at the expense of disclipline. The reason why MORE transit employees don't do favors for the riding public in general is because they believe that if it is done as a favor, it can be standard procedure in the future.
The Bee-Line is more responsive to customers in general than the MTA, BTW.
Then again, common sense and the NYCT is an oxymoron.
I didn't cover the farebox while ad-libbing policy, but I didn't encourage fare payment either. I towed the line between policy and responsibility towards the general public for the greater good of all involved.
When was the bus fare first officially waived during the blackout? Friday morning, correct? Thursday evening, most bus drivers around here were collecting fares, at least from those passengers who didn't board through the rear doors.
Eastern Queens was completely dead, awaiting the arrival of the multitude of artics shuttling strandees from Manhattan to Jamaica, LIRR. Then the Queens chaos began.
Before it was all said and done, there were:
o 63 NYCT routes complimented while minor routes depleted of service.
o Temporary subway to terminal shuttles.
o 22 Manhattan & Bronx Division artics transporting full loads to Queens.
o 25 Manhattan & Bronx Division standard RTS buses transporting full loads to Queens.
o 35-50 LIB Orion shuttles awaiting arrivals of Manhattan & Bronx Divisoon buses.
o 5 NYCT MCI Cruisers long-hauling it out to Montauk and deadheading back for more.
o Various NYCT standard buses supplementing LIB to Suffolk County and points east.
Let us also not forget the hundreds of NYCTA Rapid Transit employees who worked around the clock in complete darkness rescuing the hoardes of stranded people underground.
Not much ado is made of transit workers when emergency strikes this city, but we know better at Bus/SubTalk. A round of applause to "New Yorks Ignored" for another outstanding job well done in a time of sheer crisis and panic.
I agree, all the transit employees (bus, subway, and otherwise) deserve a big round of applause.
Realistically speaking, Montauk is a long haul for any NYCT local bus. We call them "express coaches", but our fleet are local service buses in comparison to true OTR buses. The MCI afforded the newest and most comfortable bus in the fleet; one that's least subject to mechanical failure with greater passenger capacity.
Think about the bigger picture.
The capacity reference was regarding seated passengers, and when discussing MCI's, usually is, as the TA frowns upon MCI standees and attempts to avoid that situation when possible. When possible..
You could also ride the GEORGE bus from East or West Falls Church, or Eastern Falls Church as it reads on the Thomas SLF's.
I'm sure the others will have some suggestions. WES could give you the lo down on The BUS routes, or delivery pickups.
Junk on the sidewalk! Definately wouldnt have walked down that street in the blackout.
Thats a burnt out warehouse in the background, I bet the rats are bigger in there than the Montague.
And you thought NYC livery cab yards were bad!
Yeah its easy to say that, try doing it!
"I'm tired of the constant nagging about LIB. C'mon they can't be that bad, can they? "
LIB aint that bad at all, its the north shore routes like the N20,21,and N27 that are always screwed up.
Though I'll admit I'm no fan of the Cummins equipment. No doubt the newer Orions seem designed much better.
B36-#4787-TMCRTS
B68-#7587-Orion VII
Look at all the LIBus routes that pop up and dissappear like the JFK Flyer and the Nassau Hub Shuttle, Off-peak services are always the greatest fluctuation
Once you have a car and don't pay for expensive parking, why invest for a bus if you are bound to a lease and insurance policy.
The bus was packed! I mean, people were standing all the way up to the front! (I know, safety hazard and yadda yadda). WHY, pray tell, was this run using a NEW FLYER?! Why not one of those ugly NABIs (okay, they aren't so ugly) that make there way on my precious 95 bus route?! (I know, they are from different depots, yadda yadda). I'm not sure if this was a reaccuring thing, though, but I can't help but notice the fact that this bus was over an hour after the 1st bus. Why, oh why, is it running hourly on a REAL night owl (not the "suburban owl" that means service extends into the evenings) route and when a bus is packed like this? There should at least be a Darby short turn bus!
Also, another thing that pissed me off was the fact that everyone was standing in the low floor part of the bus. WHY?! The back half of the aisle was virtually empty, I would've made my way back there if there weren't so many people in the way! One guy was sitting in the middle seat in the back row with two EMPTY seats next to him. Sure he was kinda big and had his arms stretched out, but for a seat, C'MON!
I can't believe they (SEPTA) are replacing my 42 seater Neos for 39 seater buses, not to mention the fact that the Neoplans have WIDER AISLES. 102 inch wide buses my foot, they are just a bigger inconvenience to drive. My ranting and raving is done.
Note: The west terminal of 69th St is so dead weeknights, yet so busy during the weekday! Also, I saw a 65 artic bus FULL leaving 69th St...wow, they really need those artics, don't they? How do they deal with the crowds on a 40ft bus? Maybe it should go to Allegheny weekdays and Callowhill weekends and latenights.
So then when he comes on the WHOLE MAGNITUDE OF RIDING BUSES HAD CHANGED, POSSIBLY FOR THE LONG TERM! 8-) It was mellow at first but then the aggressiveness was pouring into his eyes so we were flying down the streets and then we saw the 11 that was 15 minutes late at least and Trev was a couple of minutes early so then we took a shortcut to Nanuet Mall by going up the highway and did 60mph at one point and this lady asked him if it was going express and he said “its an express bus now” so we had a OOS sign and he guaranteed the woman that he would get her to Middletown Rd in 10 minutes and he was ahead by FOUR; go figure! Then at the Spring Valley terminal, boy we did a SHORT STOP at the terminal and dust plumes were way up, going like 11 feet in the air! We were say 15 minutes early so its 3:10pm we cleaned the bus and just threw the papers & trash out onto some water deprived [and ugly] lawn, ahh the NYC influence :-D. So we chill then its time for us to load up and we see a Orion I and a couple of Gilligs so this guy tried to board outside of a bus stop and on one of Trevor’s rules that’s a NO-NO so we passed him, made basically no stops until returning to Nanuet and the ride, well you guys figure it out 8-). So we talk a whole lot about transit issues; we see a Rutgers RTS and the color scheme was HOT! No camera though L. So for a while it was just us 3 and Trevor so we really did some maneuvering and sharp turns and shit and I see that he’s on cruise control [I was like WTF] so it was like that until people boarded once again as we go on so we see a few Volvo Artics as we head towards the Lincoln Tunnel to PABT. Also on this round, we saw a bus line called VANESSA. We were like this is some next shit :-P.
Surprisingly, we don’t get caught in the traffic jam so we were talking about the 45A and guess what, we saw it and the race was on so we pass each other a couple of times and this stupid community bus was hogging the fuckin lane and then switched up to the left side so we speed up going about 45mph and we cut in front of the traffic, saving about 5 minutes and we beat that damn 45A by a long shot since it got stuck at the bottom of the ramp while we were getting ready to unload the passengers at 5:15pm, ahead by about 20 minutes. So we get off and get a bathroom break; man the stench of that damn urine in his bathroom is as bad as NYCT bathrooms so then we grab something to eat and all of a sudden R30 [Lincoln] comes out of nowhere and meets up with us so then we finished up and it was back to the bus. Chillin with the cool A/C we chat for a while since we still had about 20 minutes to kill before his scheduled 21B for 6:10pm and we have 32 passengers from PABT to our surprise. Head back under the Lincoln tunnel then go on the highway that leads to the NJ Turnpike heading north so once we were on it, we zoomed right down the roadway doing 70-72mph and this is different from any bus trip I did! No pickups on the entire route; just dropoffs so most people got off in bunches and then the last passenger on board left so you know what, its that time again hahaha :-D. We go to the terminal at Westwood by the RR tracks to return as a 84 heading back to the GW Bus terminal and for a while the White Plains express signs were on the destination sign [you know who’s idea it was ;-)].
We go to the store to buy some pizza & drinks and Ozzy was like go on the tracks to Shawn; now keep this in mind we were JOKING and to our shock he actually did it :-0, even going as far as crossing the tracks partially and me, Trevor, Ozzy & Lincoln just went into pure laughter seeing that Shawn was entertaining us with some of his “stuff”. Me & Lincoln bought pizza and the sausage looked like some next shit alright and his expression was just priceless! They told me of the yellowish colored Vanilla milk shake they had at McDonalds last time they were on a trip so we have a regular rider we chat with and Shawn again insists on going to the rails and he busts his ass trying to get up the small uphill and OMG, we nearly cried in laughter : -)) So its 7:20pm & we’re at a red so a NJT train comes up and we get a few pictures from his camera [he got good shots from what I saw] on that & we were with this lady chatting for a brief time [she knows of his ‘rules’ BTW since she is a regular rider]. She got off and we ran light to the next time point so then we go through some side road and we stop and chill out there so we take pics of a special code on the destination sign then we go in and Trevor moved on purpose to try and bounce on him [which he really wasn’t going to do] and his facial expression was just priceless; oh man it was hilarious!!! Picked up some pax and we rumble down Route 4 at 60mph bypassing many slow moving cars; they have to do better than that for crying out loud :-\ then on the GWB hit 60mph before getting caught in a slowdown of gridlock approaching NYC. >:-0 We arrive at 8:13pm, way ahead of the 8:30 arrival time so a few more pictures are taken in the process and we sit back and relax and talk some shit about each other hehe.
Trevor realizes he would be blocked from the boarding lane b/c of a parked bus SO he goes a little bit into the parking area of the NJT buses goes forward and then does some next stuff by reversing into the lane to board the passengers; how about that! So now he is doing a round trip 14 to Tenafly & back to GWBT and the whole thing ends at 9:55pm but hmmmm, would it?? We head back to Jersey again on the 14 this time and its basically the same speedy over the GW Bridge and the highway Rt. 4 pick up some pax along the route and the best has yet to come guys! So we go the way a bus usually goes BUT once we were alone with only the individual lights [and the blue light in the back] illuminating the bus, it’s an about face and we run down the side street once again and when slamming the brakes, the brakes was ROASTED! :-0 It smelled like grilled meat all jokes aside and there was some smoke but upon walking towards the back there was skid marks, I was like oh shit and we laughed our asses off! I say it went for a good 10-20 feet and 2 people waiting there at the bus shed were in complete shock! So we see a 20 heading towards the GWB but they let it go so apparently they wanted in on the action and Lincoln had to take a piss and it was pretty dark so you couldn’t really see. Its 9:10pm and we take those 2 passengers then we hardly make any stops on the bus and we continue to chat about all sorts of things then once on Route 4 it was an ALL OUT ride, going 60-70mph passing cars like whoa, then on the GWB basically punked these cars having a bit of room then arrived at GWB at 9:46pm, 9 minutes ahead of schedule.
We chill until 9:55 and we thought the ride was over and just as we got up, little did we know what else was in store for us. He closed up, did a sharp 360 and we headed onto the surface streets! :-O We flew by Ft. Washington Av and peeps were in shock and awe, pedestrians and drivers; now that’s power right there. On Broadway just relentless and showed no mercy to describe it best 8-). Dropped off Ozzy at 157 St, saw him run to give one last wave to us then backed up and did a short turn but just caught a bit of the curb & proceeded south on Broadway and this damn truck driver blocked 2 lanes at 155 St so he went to the left lane and MADE the driver get out of the way (as well as a few pedestrians trying to jaywalk) and we’re rumbling down Broadway at 50mph [boy this bus was a fast starter :-D]. Reached 125 St, made a sharp left; almost went under a low clearance point on the el, would have been a sardine can right there ;-D. He dropped Shawn off by the 1/9 then me & Lincoln at 125/St Nick and this guy looked back at Trevor like WTF IS UP WITH HIM in his facial expression so we peaced him out and we waited for the B or C; a rare thing for me to wait on a CPW local. It was 10:05pm and a D came but let it go and a B came a few minutes later and blanked one of the side rolls but that’s it; he got off at his stop and I continued south to 34 St where it was a rather quick ride to catch the Q. I’m waiting on the stifling ass platform then about 8 minutes later a Q train comes and it’s a quick ride back to Brooklyn then I get off my stop and went home.
Man this is a long ass post, seriously! I really enjoyed the trip, Trevor took bus driving to points tht is unheard of!
Some observations:
-Ozzy tells me that all types of equipment was running on the upper 200’d NJT transit buses from Flxibles to MCI’s
-We saw Volvo artics, Flxible Metros, a few RTS’s and a baby RTS
-Trevor accepted 3 $20 dollar bills
-Bypassed a few people for not being at the stop or not being prepared
-Saw a suburban on the M27, 9275
-There was NO lies about this one; all expectations were met, ok exceeded to a extreme level!
-Saw a R33 work train at 59 St, 9020-9021 and two R21/22’s
-Had the White Plains sign up for a good potion of the ride
If I left anything out, add the additional observations & stuff! 8-)
R68 2816 (Q)
R44 5396 (A)
MCI 8502 #11C/11A
MCI 8502 #21B/84
MCI 8502 #14
R68 2508 (B)
R68 2885 (Q)
Why would you say that? You saw me there, and I saw you. I even participated quite a bit.
Anyway it was a very good trip and after reading the trip report, you would of wished you were there [believe me] :-)
Didn't I JUST SAY that "I wished I was there?" Is there an echo in here? If only I had a dollar for every time you've posted something that was posted previously in the same thread...
If only I had a dollar for every time you've posted something that was posted previously in the same thread...
Not funny, I don't do that so much [and its inadvertant] to begin with :-\. You took energy to say that, oh man give me a break.
That d4000 was the shit, but I would love to ride a Metro D.
I can tell you that if you had suffered any harm from doing that act, SubTalk would have gotten a big laugh out of it.
The line ran along 86th Street from New Utrect Avenue to 24th Avenue.
The fare was a score at the Plaza Suite.
o_o
the NYDOT has the Q19, Q19A, Q19B which have no relation to eachother
Q44A- now the 46
Q44B- former malba shuttle
Q44VP- now the 74
a Q12A which is now the 79
a Q4A which is now the 84
a Q5A which is now the 85
there were a couple more I think which became the current 75,76,77,83?
Was Q 3A Now Q83
Was Q 4A Now Q84
Was Q 5A Now Q85
Was Q12A Now Q79
Was Q17A Now Q30
Was Q44A Now Q46
Was Q44FS Now Q20A/B
Was Q44VP Now Q74
I believe the Q75, Q76 and Q77 were always their respective designations.
Are you Mr. Will?;-)
Not exactly an old roll sign, but it's close enough to what you're looking for. Sure, they manufactured rye bread, but they also made rolls, bagels and classic white bread.
Image courtesy http://www.forgotten-ny.com. Click photo to visit website.
Seriously though, were you old enough to witness the "action" in that area, David? I understand it's long since been cleaned up.
I think these changes reflect the epitome of professionalism and fashion-conscienceness that is the MTA. Kudos to our new uniform provider for availing a wide array of synthetic fiber for your transit workforce.
We have something in common. It's also my birthday
Royal: 7000-7062, 7400-7419, 7500-7519
Arlington: 7063-7094, 7420-7439, 7520-7534
Bladensburg:7095-7202, 7400-7459, 7535-7554
Prince George's(now Annex):7203-7234, 7460-7469, 7555-7564
Northern:7235-7320, 7470-7479, 7565-7594
Southeastern: 7321-7356, 7480-7489, 7595-7604
Western:7357-7399, 7490-7499, 7605-7619
Subway lines aren't as common as bus lines because the subway car has so many available doors! Why wait on one long line when you can make up your own and be first?!
See how that works?
Isn't the internet just choc foll'o valuable information?
This was to relieve a transfer from the S53 coming from Bay Ridge subway to the S61/91 which go to College of Staten Island
The S93 limited now meets the needs of students coming from the 95st station on the R subway who want direct access to the School
Look at "Staten Island Bus map" under mta.info