I noticed that no one mentioned the i'll fated problem plagued Neoplans that WMATA purchased. They mostly stayed off the street more than on and a few even burned. I even forgot the coach numbers the were assigned.
I split this off into a new topic because it doesn't have anything to do with Fairfax Connector (where this post originally was located). Make sure to stay on or close to subject.
Welcome aboard!
The Neoplans were 9500's. That was the one type of WMATA bus that I never got a chance to ride on. Even if they weren't the best, it would have been nice to ride on one.
The WMATA Neoplans were similar to the ones Baltimore had.Numbered in the 3700's. There was only 10 and all based at Eastern Div. They unfortunately rusted from the inside out. I never had a chance to drive them but, the operators never liked them because the steering wheels did not tilt. Todays operators are totally spoiled by. I started out driving with no power steering and no tilt wheels. and occassionally no mirror on the right side as well. Something totally unheard of today. If you had a standing load. Just put your right signal on and ease over if you didn't hear brakes screaching and horns blowing you could make it safely to the curb. Haha the good old days.
I am looking for DC Transit,WMA,AB&W to metrobus photos. the early up to the rebuilding of the GM's and FLX buses. There were also two that I know of AM Generals that recieved the livery of the 80's. One a 40ft and a 35ft. The 40ft I remember seeing had the grey tinted windows. But, I don't recall the numbers on either one. If any one can help me I'd greatly appreciate it.
Thanks Bryan
I Agree
I think, from a historical perspective, those pics, on this website would be icing on the cake.
When my wife & I were in DC last month, I had written WMATA public (dis)Information office about getting access to some of their VAST library of WMATA/DC transit, AB&W, WM&A photo's.
She wrote back to me, all nice & all, but said those pics that they have are WMATA property, but I could go to the MLK Library, DC section (9th street NW) and see if I could access their photographs.
We didn't have the time in DC (only in town 2 days. . and we left the time machine here in Florida) to venture and do any sightseeing (cept the old neighborhood, parents gravesite & former place of employment), and to go to a rehearsal dinner & a wedding. Maybe someone in DC area, could take the time to go to the DC library on 9th street NWDC & access their bus photo's?
Did they give any information about where they are or what collection I'd be looking for? I'm thinking maybe I can buy a portable scanner or take my camera and photograph the photographs.