Despite the generous offer by a galvanizer to provide their services free of charge, the Kanawha Regional Transit Authority (KRTA) decided to independently research the performance of hot-dip galvanized steel and found it to be the best solution to the corrosion problem on its buses. In the past, the tubular frames and superstructure of the buses had been painted. 

Predictably, the harsh winters and road salts used in the area soon caused serious, unsightly corrosion as well as significant rusting on the inside of the tubular frames. Interestingly, the wheel wells were the only element of the old buses that had only minimal deterioration, and they had been galvanized. With a new bus costing as much as $300,000, the decision to rehab one of its old buses was made. First, the decorative skin, windows, rails, steps, landings, and wood accessories were removed, then a new frame and superstructure were fabricated and hot-dip galvanized. The KRTA's educated choice for complete corrosion prevention for its trolley ensures that the citizens of West Virginia will have a maintenance-free bus for years to come.