11/30/2008: WMATA Bus Numbering

[Tristan]

Wondering about WMATA's crazy bus numbers?

Wondering when we'll finally get some real transit information together here?

Today, DCATZ answers both your pressing questions.  I'm probably more excited than I should be to announce the addition of a primer on WMATA fleet numbering: http://dctransit.info/96

DCATZ is on the way!

[WayneNYC]

Cool.  Makes for some nice reading.  Just one question regarding the Metro-E.  I know there's a unit numbered 4104, but I was under the impression that they started with unit #4001???

WMATA clearly hasn't been consistent with numbering their buses.  I suspect that large transit don't give this much thought until necessary.  Then, I'd bet someone will simply identify a block of numbers large enough for the order and grab it.

The one that amuses me is the Metrorail.  Here it is they have less than 1000 cars, but they're getting ready for the 7000 series railcars.  Sounds funny, but it may work since WMATA will likley never purchase more than 1000 railcars at one time.

[Tristan]

You are correct, Wayne - thanks for pointing that out.

I think the inherited equipment really laid the foundation for the FUBAR numbering "system" of today, just like the inherited route numbers did.