new flyer 5800 retirement

[jacksone44]

I still miss the Neoplan AN440 CNGs that Metro used to run up until this past March, along with their Flx Metros retired years ago. I hate the Gilligs we have and Gilligs period.

I remember when those Neoplan's were brand new back in '97. They got taken out of service for a while in the late 90's I think because of the maintenance. The last time I saw the Flx Metros in St. Louis was '01.

[jajuan]

Personally, I don't understand this nostalgia, given that CTA has 280 some 14 year old buses, that apparently according to the new CTA procurement page, are still being maintained. There were reasons before to buy second-hand buses:

• In the case of the 7300s, because all but one of the 7100s had fallen apart and they were waiting for the 7500s.

• In the case of the Orion Is, because CTA wanted something narrower and accessible for the U of C routes until the Optimas arrived.

I don't see any similar impetus, including from the Seattle used bus salesperson. The original idea (if you believe Huberman, and there is less reason to do so) is that the hybrid articulateds were to be ordered to provide a way to replace the 14 year old buses. So, if money for the hybrid articulateds is not available, just keep the 14 year old high floor buses you have. cta5555 would be happy.

If there is any indication of a bus shortage (now that the NABIs have been replaced), I haven't heard of it.

I'd have to agree here, with close to 300 14 year old buses left on the roster why would there be a need to go backwward trying to buy more? I mean as much as I loved the old Americanas as a teen into my mid20s and the fishbowls as tyke, they are where they should be at this point: transit bus heaven. As much as we hate to admit it at times, things change. Respectfully, those who are 6000 fans just enjoy creating good memories for yourselves as I did with the Americanas and fishbowls (and the TMCs after their rehabs).

[qwantae]

Maybe the CTA can purchase some 12-14 year old high floor buses instead of 140 60 foot New Flyers? Since the 60 ft NF is the only bus they can order right now, but more artics aren't needed.

There are more than few TMC 4400s still sitting at 77th Scrapyard still looking fair condition, they can put those babies back on road plus with the 5800s NF. Put them back on #151. I miss those darn things.