The initiative is the latest measure announced by the CTA since unveiling its “Meeting the Moment Action Plan” and in support of the guiding pillar to deliver reliable and consistent service for customers.
The trains will go into service in 2024, and until then, will be tested to ensure they and the infrastructure they will rely upon are in good working order.
The two new cars, one cab and one coach, are part of an 11-car order approved by the Sound Transit Board in 2020.
The 12-month pilot will allow current RTA paratransit clients living in East New Orleans to book on-demand services within Orleans Parish.
Researchers collected three types of data: real-time traffic speeds, on-site passerby counts of vehicles and pedestrians, and additional on-site observations of local conditions.
The buses will be delivered over a three-year period.
To mark the event, LANTA unveiled a fully restored 1972 General Motors bus that served the agency's fleet at its inception 50 years ago.
Beginning August 22, elementary and high school students will also be able to ride Pace, Metra, and CTA for free.