The Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) will place 19 new buses, which replace obsolete, non-accessible buses, in transit service this month. The new vehicles allow MVTA to privatize service previously operated by a public operator. Twelve low-floor buses manufactured by Gillig Corp. feature wheelchair fold-out ramps, which eases speed of loading, and improved securement systems. The Gillig vehicles, which are equipped with bicycle racks, will be operated for the MVTA by Laidlaw Transit Services Inc. of Burnsville, Minn. In addition to the Gillig buses, the MVTA is putting into service seven 45-foot motor coaches manufactured by Motor Coach Industries (MCI). The MCIs use traditional lift technology to load wheelchairs, but have improved securement systems. Other MCI amenities include parcel racks, individual reading lights and air vents. The MCIs will be used primarily between Apple Valley and Downtown Minneapolis.