Saginaw's STARS Transit is Letting Go of Two Beloved Shuttle Buses – Your Chance to Own a Piece of Local History!

Well, isn't this interesting? If you've ever dreamt of owning a bona fide city bus – maybe for a unique project, a mobile business, or simply because you have a soft spot for public transit – then listen up! Saginaw's very own public transit agency, STARS (that's Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Services), has put two of its shuttle buses up for auction. And guess where you can find them? On GovDeals, the popular online marketplace for government surplus.

These aren't just any old vehicles; we're talking about two 2011 Gillig 35-foot shuttle buses, each having faithfully served the Saginaw community for over a decade. Imagine the stories they could tell! Both buses are robust, built for the rigors of daily public service, and they've certainly seen some miles – one clocks in at a respectable 200,676 miles, while its sibling isn't far behind with 203,792 miles on the odometer. That's a lot of trips around town, connecting people and places!

Now, why are these workhorses finding a new home? Simple, really: like all vehicles in a demanding fleet, they eventually reach the end of their operational life for public transit standards. While they've been replaced by newer models as part of STARS' ongoing fleet modernization, these two Gilligs are far from ready for the scrap heap. They're still very much functional, just no longer deemed suitable for the intensive daily grind of a city bus route, which requires peak performance and the latest emissions standards.

So, who exactly might be eyeing these sizable vehicles? The possibilities are surprisingly varied! We've seen similar buses snapped up by churches looking for reliable transportation for their congregations, or by non-profit organizations needing a cost-effective way to move people or supplies. Small businesses might even transform one into a unique mobile storefront, a community outreach vehicle, or even – get this – a surprisingly spacious RV for the adventurous individual looking for a truly one-of-a-kind home on wheels. Just think of the space!

If this piques your interest, here’s the scoop on how to get in on the action. Both buses are currently listed on GovDeals, with bidding starting at a very accessible $2,500 for each. You'll want to act quickly, though, as the listings are set to close on March 27, 2024. As with most government surplus sales, these buses are being sold 'as-is,' so it's highly recommended for serious bidders to arrange an inspection to understand exactly what they're getting. It’s a transparent process, ensuring everyone knows the score.

It's a rare and exciting opportunity, really, to acquire a vehicle with such a significant service history. These buses have been an integral part of Saginaw's daily rhythm, and now they're ready for their next chapter, whatever that may be. Whether you're looking for a practical solution for a group, a blank canvas for a creative project, or simply a unique piece of Saginaw transit history, these STARS shuttle buses certainly offer a compelling proposition. Happy bidding, and here's to their new life on the road!