Under BusPlus+, a first-of-its kind public/private partnership, MassDOT will provide 31 new MCI Commuter Coaches to seven privately operated bus companies that will be responsible for service improvements to routes as well as for equipment maintenance and operating costs.
Bus Plus+ is funded by a Federal Transit Administration State of Good Repair grant and will be overseen by MassDOT’s Rail and Transit Division. Under BusPlus+, MCI will deliver the following: 12 coaches to Peter Pan, Springfield, Mass.; seven coaches to Dattco, New Britain, Conn.; five coaches to Plymouth & Brockton, Plymouth, Mass.; two coaches each to Bloom Bus Lines, Taunton, Mass., Coach Co., Plaistow, N.H., and Greyhound Lines, Boston; and one coach to Yankee Line, Boston.
MCI’s Commuter Coach model is designed for highway speeds and features a touring-level interior and wheelchair accessibility. MassDOT is adding optional Wi-Fi and ergonomically designed Kiel seats for 51 passengers rather than the standard 57, to increase passenger comfort.
Additionally the seats feature three-point passenger seatbelts and include power outlets to charge digital devices, allowing passengers greater productivity while commuting.
Featuring the latest EPA-mandated clean-diesel engine technology, the new MCI Commuter Coaches also meet the goals of GreenDOT, a comprehensive environmental responsibility and sustainability initiative designed to make MassDOT a national leader in “greening” the state transportation system.
The new coaches also feature dynamic safety systems including Electronic Stability Control, tire pressure monitoring, and fire detection and suppression.
