June 30, 2026 | Posted In News
Tolar Manufacturing Celebrates 35 Years of Building North America’s Transit Infrastructure
Tolar Manufacturing Company is celebrating its 35th anniversary, marking more than three decades of designing and manufacturing award-winning transit shelters, street furniture, solar-powered passenger amenities, and public infrastructure that connect communities throughout North America. Founded in 1991 by Gary Tolar, the company has grown into one of North America’s leading providers of custom transit infrastructure.
“Thirty-five years ago, we set out to build products that would stand the test of time and earn the trust of every customer we serve,” said Gary Tolar, Founder and President of Tolar Manufacturing Company. “This milestone belongs to everyone who has been part of that journey, our customers who have trusted us with their communities, our dedicated team members whose craftsmanship and commitment make every project possible, and our supplier partners who have stood beside us through decades of growth. Thank you for believing in our vision and helping us build something that has lasted far beyond bus shelters. Together, we’ve helped strengthen public transportation across North America, and for that I am grateful”
Beginning with its first major contract in San Diego, Tolar Manufacturing has maintained client projects and relationships for decades. For 35 years, Tolar has remained committed to a simple philosophy: build products of lasting quality that reflect the character of the communities they serve while delivering exceptional value to transit agencies, municipalities, and advertising partners. By listening closely to each customer’s unique needs, Tolar helps bring their vision for their agency and riders to life through thoughtful, customized design.
Today, Tolar’s products can be found in cities large and small across the United States and Canada, helping millions of riders safely access public transportation every day. From iconic architectural bus shelters and Bus Rapid Transit stations to solar-powered lighting systems and digital passenger information displays, every project is designed with durability, innovation, and a distinct Sense of Place™ in mind, enhancing the rider experience through safer, more comfortable, and more accessible public spaces.
Tolar Manufacturing is one of the largest producers of domestic transit furniture in North America, focusing on the design and fabrications of transit shelters, outdoor digital advertising displays, solar bus stop solutions, and creatively sustainable public space amenities. Based in Corona CA, the company is Build America Buy America Compliant, using rigorous materials including steel and manufactured products that are produced in the United States.
Looking ahead, Tolar sees tremendous opportunity as transit agencies continue modernizing infrastructure, improving rider experiences, and investing in more sustainable communities. According to the American Public Transportation Association, every $1 invested in public transportation generates approximately $5 in economic returns, underscoring why communities across the country continue investing in modern transit infrastructure. Tolar remains focused on expanding its product offerings, strengthening strategic partnerships, and delivering the quality and reliability that have defined the Tolar name for 35 years.
