Krapf Bus Companies acquired Rome, N.Y.-based school bus and transportation provider Birnie Bus Service Inc.

Birnie Bus operates 1,000 vehicles including school buses, transit and paratransit vehicles, and motorcoaches. Combined, the enterprise will operate 2,500 school buses across four states — Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware and Virginia.

The operation will also become the largest division of Krapf Bus Companies, bringing more than 70 school districts and pre-schools, as well as transit, paratransit and motorcoach operations.

“It is important to me that Birnie Bus is in good hands — including our customers, our employees, and our reputation,” said Tim Birnie, president/CEO of Birnie Bus. “While I will be joining the Krapf Board of Directors in a more strategic role, I am delighted that the Krapfs will not only be taking charge, but will be taking Birnie to whole new levels of performance in the years ahead.”

The acquisition became effective on June 14, 2017. The Krapf organization now employs over 3,500 people.

“We are very proud to have Birnie Bus become part of the Krapf Bus family,” said Dale Krapf, chairman of the Krapf Board of Directors. "Birnie has a very strong management and employee team, a great customer base, and a fine reputation. We expect a very bright future working together.”