Wausau MetroRide buses. Image courtesy: WAOW TV.
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU-WAOW) – New city busses have arrived in Wausau.
MetroRide said the new busses will modernize their fleet and reduce the carbon footprint.
“As technology changed throughout the years, so, too, have vehicle designs and customer amenities,” announced Greg Seubert, Transit Director. “These buses are equipped with the latest clean diesel technology… a cleaner engine that is virtually smokeless.”
The buses were designed about 8 passengers shorter than the last which may cause a problem later. “If we have fewer drivers and smaller buses at peak time they crowded buses.. were thinking of all of those things as we move forward,” said Seubert.
The new design lowers the bus to curb height, it adds LED lights to reduce energy use. Plus, electronic destination signs, padded seats, and improved accessibility.
But, the routes still do not reach Schofield, Weston, Rib Mountain.
Seubert told WAOW-TV, “We are watching anxiously watching the industry as a whole evolve.. it would be interesting to see how we react to that as funds become available.”
According to officials, ridership in Wisconsin is down about 50% compared to before the pandemic.
The Marathon County Planning Organization released a survey to gauge support of a route expansion.
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