C TRAN, formerly Chemung County Transit, has taken delivery of four 40-foot Gillig clean diesel buses that were put in service in late December. Made in Hayward, Calif., the stylish Gillig low floor commuter buses have a seating capacity of 35. Chemung County obtained $1.6 million in stimulus funding through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and Federal Transit Administration funding designed to improve the reliability of C TRAN’s fleet of 36 buses.
As a part of the recent rebranding effort, the Gilligs are the first buses in Chemung County to sport C TRAN’s new exterior design of a bold red and white graphic pattern on a metallic silver base. The new name, C TRAN, and the slogan “the smart way to go” are prominently displayed on the buses. The new buses are also rider-friendly with front bicycle racks, overhead luggage racks, convenient reading lamps and air vents, and high-back, upholstered seats. The Gilligs are accessible with low-floor height, 1:6 ratio ramp, and a wide entry area. For the next two months, C TRAN will highlight the front bicycle racks by partnering with a local bike shop to sponsor a bike giveaway.
In January, passengers participating in a Riders Advisory group praised the buses for being quieter and cleaner and for providing a smoother ride. “These new fuel efficient vehicles are a welcome addition to our fleet,” said Chemung County Executive Tom Santulli. “The low-floor height will allow C TRAN to continue to service our senior and mobility impaired riders and the bike racks allow transit riders to reach any last mile destination. This is yet another step towards becoming a truly multi-modal system.”
The Gillig buses are equipped with Cummins ISB engines and Allison transmissions that are designed to last the system for twelve years or 500,000 miles. Gillig’s California location inspires operation with a high degree of environmental sensitivity and responsibility. The new C TRAN buses will lower energy usage, have more recyclable parts, and release fewer greenhouse gas emissions. The Gilligs have a body structure made of lightweight high-strength aluminum alloy that resists corrosion and is easy to repair. The reduced weight saves on wear and tear, as well as fuel costs, and it’s environmentally responsible because it’s recyclable. Dramatic improvements in emissions technology make the new C TRAN buses 90% cleaner than the twelve year old buses they replace.
