Why US Public Transit Is Overpaying for Buses

0 February 15, 2026 10:01

Public transit is essential for millions of Americans, but the way buses are procured may be limiting how much service cities can afford. Harvard professor Ed Glaeser says agencies often order highly-customized buses in a market with shrinking competition, while federal funding rules shape how purchases are made. Transit executives argue that operating realities require flexibility, yet agree reform is needed. Could smarter procurement and more competition help cities get more buses for less money?
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