Who founded Tolar Manufacturing?

Gary Tolar founded Tolar Manufacturing.

Where is Tolar Manufacturing based?

Tolar Manufacturing is based in Corona, California.

What was Tolar Manufacturing's first major transit contract?

Tolar Manufacturing's first major transit contract was in San Diego.

In which countries has Tolar Manufacturing completed projects?

Tolar Manufacturing has completed projects in the United States and Canada.

Tolar Manufacturing Marks 35 Years in Transit Infrastructure Industry

Founded in 1991 by Gary Tolar, the Corona, Calif.-based company has expanded from its first major transit contract in San Diego to projects in cities throughout the US and Canada.

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June 30, 2026

Tolar Manufacturing Reaches 35-Year Milestone — Tolar said its products are designed to meet the operational and aesthetic needs of transit agencies while supporting rider accessibility and safety.
Credit:
METRO

2 min to read

Tolar Manufacturing, established in 1991 by Gary Tolar, celebrates 35 years in the transit infrastructure industry.
The company is based in Corona, California, and began its first significant project in San Diego.
Over the years, Tolar Manufacturing has expanded its project reach to cities across the US and Canada.

*Summarized by AI

Tolar Manufacturing Company is marking its 35th anniversary, highlighting more than three decades of designing and manufacturing transit shelters, street furniture, solar-powered passenger amenities, and other public infrastructure for transit agencies and municipalities across North America.

Founded in 1991 by Gary Tolar, the Corona, Calif.-based company has expanded from its first major transit contract in San Diego to projects in cities throughout the US and Canada.

"Thirty-five years ago, we set out to build products that would stand the test of time and earn the trust of every customer we serve," said Gary Tolar, founder and president of Tolar Manufacturing Company. "This milestone belongs to everyone who has been part of that journey, our customers who have trusted us with their communities, our dedicated team members whose craftsmanship and commitment make every project possible, and our supplier partners who have stood beside us through decades of growth."

Tolar’s Path to Today

According to the company, its portfolio includes transit shelters, bus rapid transit stations, outdoor digital advertising displays, solar-powered bus stop lighting systems, and digital passenger information displays.

Tolar said its products are designed to meet the operational and aesthetic needs of transit agencies while supporting rider accessibility and safety.

The company manufactures its products in the US and is compliant with Build America, Buy America requirements. Tolar also noted that it uses domestically produced steel and other manufactured materials in its products.

Charging Ahead

Looking ahead, company officials said they expect continued opportunities as transit agencies invest in infrastructure modernization, sustainability initiatives, and improvements to the rider experience.

Tolar said it plans to expand its product offerings and strengthen partnerships with transit agencies and municipalities.

According to the American Public Transportation Association, every $1 invested in public transportation generates approximately $5 in economic returns, a statistic often cited to illustrate the broader economic impact of transit investment.