Big transit show in San Diego this week

I had the chance to walk around the American Public Transportation Assn.'s convention in San Diego on Sunday while the exhibits were setting up. The convention is a chance for vendors in the mass transit business to display and their latest wares to public transit officials.

For example, in the above photo is the latest in subway turnstile design. No one was around to explain the purpose of the big hole in the middle -- and I know well enough not to assume anything.

American Seating was also on hand to show off the latest in seat design for transit vehicles. That yellow one in front is just begging to be decorated with a cherry Slurpee, don't you think?

I don't have any photos, but the hot item at the expo appeared to be hybrid buses. About 17,000 transit officials and vendors are expected to attend the convention this week. Be warned, Gaslamp Quarter!

--Steve Hymon

Photos: Steve Hymon / Los Angles Times

Comments

[Jeff Popovich]

Just wanted to let you and your readers know that we at APTA have setup a blog to serve as a way to share information about the show, as well as spark conversation about our industry, at blog.apta.com. I encourage all of your readers that cannot make it to the show to visit our blog and videos for a taste of what is going on and to leave their comments! Thanks!

[Vince DAWSON]

Glad you could see this show, Steve! I have been in the transit industry for a little over 30 years, and was at the very first EXPO in Chicago in 1981. It let people see all the innovations that transit had to offer, and back then, the climate (and mantra) was "bigger is better". Now, the transit industry is looking at "going green" and reducing it's carbon footprint. I wouldlike to think that what transit is trying to do is not entice people to convert over and give up their private vehicles, but to be a better neighbor in the community! How so? Buses that idle less and use less fuel is one way. Surveillance systems that alert authorities in real time is another. Hope to see you three years from now in New Orleans!

[Dana Gabbard]

Every third year the APTA convention includes an Expo of transit equipment displays, a very big deal in the industry. And it is being held as part of the event this year in San Diego. It is free and members of the public are welcome to register and attend this Wednesday (aka "Go Green with Public Transportatio day") during the day:

https://www.compusystems.com/servlet/ar?evt_uid=630

[The Real Zajac]

The hole in the door is a safety gap; it keeps anyone from getting hurt or stuck if the door closes on an appendage.