FTA formula grant stipulates transit enhancement projects
RTC unveils new solar-powered transit shelters
The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) is installing 150 new solar-powered bus shelters throughout the Las Vegas Valley as part of its federally funded transit amenities program. The $1.8 million formula grant from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) for the purchase and installation of the new energy-saving shelters specifically stipulates the allocation be for transit enhancement projects such as transit shelters.
RTC says the new shelters will provide an attractive, comfortable and shaded place for riders to wait for transit while saving taxpayers approximately $54,000 a year in energy costs.
Built with recyclable materials, these shelters designed by Luchessi Galati Architects and manufactured by Tolar Manufacturing Inc., Corona, CA, feature energy saving LED lighting and solar panels that enable the shelters to power their own illumination without connecting to the local power grid.
Each one is roomy enough to accommodate a passenger in a wheelchair or other mobility device. Each shelter houses a bench, receptacle bin, display case for transit information and two advertising panels.
RTC says the installation of the 150 units will be complete by December in Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas and unincorporated Clark County. The RTC is responsible for the installation and maintenance of bus shelters in these jurisdictions. The agency says currently 1,500 of the approximately 3,500 transit stops valley wide have shelters.
Sun Metro introduces new bus stop solar lighting system
Sun Metro, El Paso, TX, installed a new lighting system consisting of 13 solar lighting units throughout the El Paso area to better illuminate their previously poorly lit bus stops. Additionally, Sun Metro says the new system will give transit passengers a better sense of security by improving visibility and lessening the chance of a bus passing up waiting riders.
Each solar lighting unit contains clear white solar-powered LED lights that provide consistent lighting for up to 12 hours and illuminate the waiting area using a power of six lumens. BR