Tri-State Transit Authority unveils new buses

The Tri-State Transit Authority (TTA) introduced seven new buses May 9 at TTA’s Main Office.

These seven new buses, which are the latest additions to the fleet, were on display on the east lot across from the main Post Office during the ceremonies that were open to the public.

All seven of the new buses are 30- and 35- foot models featuring clean diesel technology that adhere to the latest Clean Air standards. The buses were manufactured by Gillig Corporation of Livermore, Calif.

The updated buses will seat 32 passengers and accommodate two passengers in wheelchairs. Each bus can also transport two bicycles on the front-mounted rack. The buses include technologies that allow for increased safety and security with the use of multiple video cameras inside and outside of the bus.

“We’re fortunate to have had the opportunity to purchase new buses. TTA aims to serve as the catalyst for bringing together the community’s human, economic and civic resources for the purpose of creating the single most livable, safe and prosperous community in Southern West Virginia,” said Paul E. Davis, TTA general manager and CEO.

Five of the new buses were purchased with funds from grants which were flexed from the KYOVA Sub Allocated Surface Transportation Block Funds for the Huntington, W.V., KY, OH Transportation Management Area in the amount of $2.55 million. The other two are from West Virginia's 5339 program funds and Volkswagen settlement funds. The delivery of the buses to TTA closes the books on this $3.6 million project with the Federal Transit Administration and the state of West Virginia.

The new buses are being operated on various TTA bus routes as of May 10, 2022.