The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) has awarded a contract to engineering and consulting firm STV as part of an initiative to improve the reliability and performance of its bus fleet.
Metro operates more than 2,000 buses, providing roughly 800,000 passenger journeys each day across Los Angeles. Its fleet is based largely on clean-air technologies, including compressed natural gas vehicles and an expanding number of battery-electric buses.
Under the contract, the project team will support Metro in reducing vehicle breakdowns, extending bus service life and preparing for future clean transport technologies. The work is expected to include analysis of operational data, adjustments to maintenance practices and process changes aimed at limiting service disruptions.
STV and its partners will also work with Metro staff to address the needs of both legacy compressed natural gas vehicles and newer electric models. The collaboration is intended to strengthen day-to-day fleet performance while contributing to longer-term modernisation plans.
Sam Hrvacic, vice-president of bus and road vehicles engineering at STV, said:Reliable transit is vital for the hundreds of thousands of Angelenos who depend on Metro every day to travel. By applying proven engineering and fleet management solutions, we’ll help Metro deliver smoother, safer and more consistent service. These efforts will extend the lifespan of its buses and reduce maintenance costs, all while continuing to improve the zero-emission bus fleets for years to come.
STV has undertaken transport and infrastructure projects across the western United States for more than three decades. Previous work referenced by the firm includes involvement in the LA Metro Zero-Emissions Bus Programme and elements of the Purple Line Extension, alongside rail projects for Sound Transit in the Seattle metropolitan area.
