A bus driver takes her bus through the car wash at Butler Transit Authority headquarters in Butler on Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2023. The authority chose a Ross and White bus wash system for its new wash at a meeting. Butler Eagle File Photo

After hearing feedback from other transit agencies around the state, Butler Transit Authority has chosen a new bus wash system for its ongoing construction project.

Authority executive director John Paul proposed a $409,320.87 change order to the board of trustees during their meeting Tuesday, March 10, to purchase a Ross and White brand bus wash system. The board approved the change order unanimously.

“This is a better bus wash that will reduce overall maintenance costs going forward,” he said.

Paul explained the authority spoke to a transit agency with a Ross and White wash that still operates even after 25 years. He said their usage is much higher than Butler’s, meaning it could last decades.

In comparison, another agency with the brand they were considering beforehand told Paul it is having issues after just five years and the company is sending parts for repairs instead of doing the work itself.

Paul said the authority still hopes to have the wash running in August.