Jolley Trolley Retrofit

CoachCrafters had the opportunity to do a retrofit for Jolley Trolley in Clearwater, FL. Jolley Trolley serves the Clearwater Beach, Sand Key and surrounding Coastal Towns of North Pinellas, including Downtown Clearwater, Dunedin, Palm Harbor, and Tarpon Springs. Riders can enjoy a relaxing ride with amazing views through many of their coastal and beach routes. Jolley Trolley is known for its vintage-style trolleys with oak interiors and gleaming brass trim. Riders are able to ride the entire Pinellas County Bus System using interchangeable passes.

Wheelchair Retrofit

The wheelchair retrofit allowed Jolley Trolley to enhance safety and meet the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (PSTA) requirements. The project required some creativity and CoachCrafters’ customizing abilities. The retrofit was composed of mechanical and structural modifications. It received an A/C system upgrade for the hot Florida days. In addition, front and rear destination signs to better display information. The most interesting modification was changing the location of the wheelchair ramp. The existing location created a safety issue for loading and unloading passengers. The custom fabrication required removing the old wheelchair ramp, cut curbside of the bus to receive new wheelchair ramp and install/rewire lift in the new position. Then, frame a new rear door, close and seal the rear wheelchair entry. The prototype was a total success that Jolley Trolley decided to retrofit more trolleys.

The CoachCrafters team enjoyed tacking this project because it was very unique. The technicians were able to use some of their imagination and customization skills. Overall, Jolley Trolley and Coachcrafters were extremely happy with the results. If you are ever in Clearwater Beach, which was ranked “Best Beach in America” make sure you hop on the Jolley Trolley for a joyous ride!