MAGAZINE

APRIL 2012

COVER STORY

BRT Survey: Funding Levels Higher, Yet Still a Concern
By Nicole Schlosser, Senior Editor

Cited as the top challenge experienced by one-fifth of participating operators. Coming in second was land use coordination, at 17%, down by slightly more than 10% from last year, when it was listed as the top challenge.

Features

Streetcar Projects Continue Breaking Ground Despite Uncertain Federal Future

Federal officials look at new rules to make streetcars more eligible — but overall funding may be cut in budget battles.

UMA Expo Touts Tools to Bolster Business

Key presentations included NTSB, FMCSA chiefs discussing safety programs, while business executives talked brand building and marketing tactics.

Operator of the Year: Northfield Lines Expands Operation Via Fleet, Customer Diversification

Over the past 23 years, John (pictured) and Larry Benjamin, co-owners of the Minnesota-based business, have built up their companies to become award-winning motorcoach and school bus operations. Meanwhile, the industry says goodbye to Larry, a well-loved member who made invaluable contributions through the UMA.

Green Projects Help Transit Be More Sustainable Off the Road

Whether it’s adding solar panels or building LEED-certified buildings, agencies are finding ways to be environmentally friendly beyond purchasing alternative-fueled vehicles. METRO takes a look at agencies leading the charge.

Flint MTA Switches to Propane for Savings, Eco-Benefits

In 2011, Livonia, Mich.-based manufacturer of propane autogas fuel systems ROUSH CleanTech and its in-state neighbor the Flint Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) unveiled the agency's first propane autogas paratransit vehicle at the BusCon Expo in Chicago.

Vehicle Lifts Becoming More Affordable, Portable and Sustainable

Mobile column lifts have increased steadily in popularity, with many manufacturers and industry veterans foreseeing improvements in the models’ efficiency and effectiveness.

DEPARTMENTS

Dallas’ DART stepping up rail security in wake of shooting

Redeployed its 140 police and fare enforcement officers so it has a uniformed presence on every train.

San Diego graffiti program tags offenders

The privately-owned Web-based Graffiti Tracker program uses a database that tracks, measures and links graffiti incidents throughout the region.

Public transportation’s green benefits get lost in D.C. debate

Opponents ignore all the evidence that shows that public transportation is one investment that contributes to sustainable economic growth, that you really can have green investments.

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METRO Magazine - July 2012

METRO Magazine
Here are the Highlight:

Consultant Roundtable

Consultant Achievements

U.S. High-Speed Program: Supports Optimistic
And much more…

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