Tucson Rapid Transit #22

Background

In 1938, Tucson Rapid Transit was in a sorry state. Management asked Tucson Gas and Electric engineer A.E. “Gene” Magee to assess their operations and advise on how they could improve. Magee stayed on as superintendent until 1946, beginning a massive turnaround for the bus company. He had his work cut out for him: routes were poorly planned, equipment was run down, and the mechanics and service facilities were inefficient.

Upon becoming superintendent, Magee promptly began a program of equipment replacement by ordering new Yellow Coach buses. He improved maintenance facilities and out existing vehicles back into good running order. Heavier-duty parts were purchased, and an extensive preventative maintenance program was instituted. Bus drivers were put into uniform for the first time, had stricter employment requirements, and organized as a union. Routes and schedules were improved, and buses now had route numbers on the destination sign. Finally, as older vehicles wore out, they were replaced by more Yellow Coaches.