(New Orleans)- Today, the Regional Transit Authority (RTA) of New Orleans unveiled its new fleet of buses. The buses will replace vehicles currently in transit service. With this replacement, New Orleans will have one of the newest and most reliable vehicle fleets in the country.

In total of 75 vehicles were purchased with federal recovery dollars. The RTA has received 47 of the new 40-foot bio-diesel buses: these buses will go into service this afternoon. The additional 28 buses are scheduled for delivery in Fall 2010 and early 2011. The new vehicles will join the 39 bio-diesel buses purchased nearly two years ago with Federal Transit Administration grant monies.

"The RTA has a commitment to the people of New Orleans," said Barbara Major, RTA Board of Commissioners Chair. Adding, "We are constantly assessing our service to the community and implementing improvements to best meet the transportation needs of everyone who relies on public transit. We will continue our efforts to provide riders with a world-class transportation system." Commissioner Major concluded, “This is an exciting day for the Board of Commissioners of the RTA. Today, we introduce new, efficient, reliable buses to our riders. Many of our buses were past their peak performance, with these new buses joining the fleet, we will have one of the newest, most reliable bus fleets in the country. Our riders will see a difference immediately."

Mayor Mitch Landrieu commented, “The Regional Transit Authority is an example of how the City of New Orleans can succeed at rebuilding by being smarter, more efficient and innovative in the way that we conduct business. The RTA provides critical transit services that fuel our local economy and serve as a lifeline to many of our residents." Concluding, "The introduction of these new vehicles also offers an opportunity for us to participate in sustainability efforts to protect our environment. By providing a smarter, more environmentally conscious mode of transportation, the agency is assisting us in preserving the quality of life for generations to come."

The RTA became the first and only transit authority in North America to enter a delegated management system when it contracted Veolia Transportation, the world leader in transportation management services, to operate all aspects of the agency in September of 2009.

In addition to the new bus fleet, the agency will launch the Jazzy Pass Program, and introduce Ticket Vending Machines to the community in late Summer 2010. For more information about the Regional Transit Authority or any of its projects call 504-827-8300 or visit us online at www.norta.com.