The Concept of a Regional Maintenance Center

Authors

Mario G. Beruvides, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
James L. Simonton, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Natalie M. Waters, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Ean-Harn Ng, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Siva Chaivichitmalakul, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Cheng-Chu Chiu-Wei, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Pelin Z. Altintas, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Phil Nash, Texas Tech UniversityFollow
Luis A. Barroso, Instituto Tecnológico de Monterrey-San Luis PotosíFollow
Paul Moon, Texas Department of TransportationFollow

Abstract

Key contributors to address maintenance concerns for rural transit systems are an aging fleet, poor maintenance practices, and a lack of technical expertise. This lack of local maintenance expertise is especially severe in rural areas. This paper examines the general requirements and maintenance service approach for a Regional Maintenance Center model in rural transportation systems. Among other findings of this study, it was determined that Regional Maintenance Centers, with a training center for mechanics and drivers, could improve vehicle reliability, increase vehicle longevity, and improve service to transit clientele. Also determined was that a generalized “onesize- fits-all” regional maintenance program could actually be counter-productive. Regional Maintenance Centers must be designed and located so potential use by rural transit service providers is maximized in order to provide superior serviceability and quality customer service.

DOI

http://doi.org/10.5038/2375-0901.12.3.6

Recommended Citation

Beruvides, Mario G, Simonton, James L, Waters, Natalie M, Ng, Ean-Harn, Chaivichitmalakul, Siva, Chiu-Wei, Cheng-Chu, Altintas, Pelin Z, Nash, Phil, Barroso, Luis A & Moon, Paul. 2009. The Concept of a Regional Maintenance Center. Journal of Public Transportation, 12 (3): 105-118.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5038/2375-0901.12.3.6
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usf.edu/jpt/vol12/iss3/6