THE BIG BEND BUS

It is estimated that between 1979 and 1982 the U.S. transit industry should replace 20,995 buses and an additional 5,190 buses over the 4-year period. Also the energy crunch is expected to lead to a 20% increase in ridership. It is estimated that this would result in a total need for 61,725 new buses for both replacement and expansion from 1979 to 1983. However, so far, orders for new buses have been slow. All of the bids were for the advanced design buses (ADB). It is noted the the U.S. transit properties have been holding back on new orders for two reasons: the situation regarding Transbus, and the concern over the implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which requires that all projects involving federal funds be totally accessible to the handicapped including people in wheelchairs. Problems faced by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) are discussed. The issues faced by some manufacturers (AM General, GMC, Flexible) are also discussed. Despite the problems, transit officials and manufacturers feel the future is hopeful.