PPTA and Gillig launch new partnership to advance transit safety and support Pennsylvania's Bus operators. Williamsport, PA (August 17, 2026) - The Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association (PPTA) and GILLIG celebrated a new partnership during the 2026 Statewide Bus Roadeo with a ribbon cutting recognizing the addition of a new Roadeo trailer that will support operator training, competitions, and industry events for years to come. The trailer, made possible through Gillig's partnership with PPTA, will serve as a dedicated resource for the association's annual Roadeo and other workforce development initiatives. Designed to improve event operations and enhance the participant experience, the trailer represents a shared investment in safety, operator excellence, and the future of Pennsylvania's public transportation industry. The ribbon cutting took place during the Roadeo Opening Ceremony, where transit leaders, operators, industry partners, and guests gathered to mark both the beginning of the statewide competition and a new chapter in the partnership between PPTA and Gillig. "Strong partnerships are essential to building a stronger public transportation industry," said Kim Whetsell, Executive Director of PPTA. "We're grateful to Gillig for investing in Pennsylvania's transit community and helping us create an even better experience for operators, volunteers, and agencies. This trailer represents more than new equipment - it's an investment in the training, safety, and professionalism that define our industry." The annual Statewide Bus Roadeo brings together fixed route and shared ride operators from transit agencies across Pennsylvania to compete in written examinations, vehicle inspections, passenger assistance and securement events, and precision driving courses that test the skills required to safely operate public transportation vehicles. The new trailer will support the Roadeo for years to come, providing a permanent resource that enhances competition logistics while reinforcing PPTA's mission to promote safety, professional development, and excellence throughout Pennsylvania's public transportation industry. About PPTA The Pennsylvania Public Transportation Association (PPTA) is a statewide trade organization dedicated to advocating for and advancing public transit. By providing leadership, resources, and technical assistance, PPTA works to ensure safe, reliable, and accessible transportation options that enhance the lives of all Pennsylvanians.

Gillig's ambitious 17-acre expansion Plans for Livermore campus: new jobs and infrastructure. Key points. * Gillig plans a 17-acre campus expansion with significant office and bus storage space. * The expansion could create around 240 new jobs and boost local tax revenue. * A portion of Discovery Drive may be closed to facilitate the expansion. * Plans include future electric bus charging stations and hydrogen fueling infrastructure. Gillig, the prominent bus manufacturer headquartered in Livermore, California, is seeking to expand its operations significantly with a proposed 17-acre campus expansion to the west of its existing facility at 451 Discovery Drive. The expansion plans include the addition of between 80,000 and 110,000 square feet of office space and the establishment of a new area dedicated to bus storage, testing, and fleet support. Furthermore, Gillig aims to enhance its operational efficiency by relocating its aftermarket parts operation to this new campus. In line with its growth strategy, Gillig has identified the need to close a portion of Discovery Drive, allowing for smoother traffic between its facilities. A preliminary traffic study indicated that the majority of the traffic in that area is generated by Gillig employees, suggesting that the closure would not significantly disrupt local traffic patterns. This move is part of a broader vision to include electric bus charging stations and hydrogen fueling infrastructure, positioning the company as a forward-thinking leader in sustainable transportation. The Livermore City Council is set to discuss a resolution that would permit negotiations regarding the proposed street closure, which is a crucial step for Gillig's expansion. If approved, any final agreements will undergo separate public hearings and environmental reviews, ensuring that community voices are heard in the development process. City staff project that this expansion could create approximately 240 new jobs and generate around $450,000 in annual tax revenue for the city, illustrating the potential economic benefits of this project to the local community. As the council deliberates, the expansion signifies Gillig's commitment to not only growing its business but also contributing to the economic landscape of Livermore. The incorporation of hydrogen fueling infrastructure into the project reflects a recognition of the shifting dynamics in the transportation industry toward more environmentally friendly solutions. Overall, Gillig's ambitious plans underscore a significant step towards enhancing local infrastructure while promoting job growth and sustainable practices in public transportation. July 10, 2026 at 06:50 PM Livermore, United States