Click image to enlargeShreveport, LA(KSLA)- SporTran is in the process of wrapping 5 new Compressed Natural Gas buses. The new flyer vehicles are the first of 14 to be introduced into the SporTran fleet this year.

"This is the largest technology change for Shreveport mass transit since the early 60's, when the last electric trolley was replaced by a diesel bus," said SporTran Manager, Gene Eddy

Mayor Cedric Glover announced the City's intent to convert the fleet to CNG last March. Since then, SporTran has been busy getting ready for the transition.

"We are working hard getting everything ready for the conversion, "said Joe Watson, SporTran Maintenance Manager.

Renovations are almost complete to the maintenance facility, including changing out the open flame heating system to an explosion proof circulating hot water system and installation of methane detectors and a new ventilation system.

Trees along SporTran routes need to be cut back in order to accommodate the increase in height of the CNG vehicles over the diesel engine ones.

Chesapeake Energy is wrapping the buses with their advertising in support of the City's CNG conversion. Funds donated from Chesapeake in exchange for the advertising will be used as local match towards future vehicles that will be used for LiftLine, SporTran's ADA accessible service.


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