September 2, 2025 | Posted In Bus Stop and Transit Shelters, News, Solar Solutions
Bus Shelters designed by local architect add color and local history to bus stops in Claremont, CA
Corona, CA — Eight new custom bus shelters have been delivered and installed in Claremont, California, through a collaboration between the City of Claremont, J Bohn Associates, and Tolar Manufacturing. Tolar Manufacturing is North America’s premier designer and fabricator of award-winning transit shelters. The new shelters were fabricated and installed by Tolar Manufacturing and designed by local architect John Bohn. Each shelter features dusk-to-dawn security illumination, perforated steel walls with custom-designed patterns, and custom-designed steel benches, among other amenities. The shelters create a vibrant, angular aesthetic that incorporates vibrant splashes of color on the metal walls and the stained concrete pads on the sidewalk underneath, for a fully integrated look. The design was inspired by the nearby San Gabriel Mountains, the works of local artist Karl Benjamin, and the dappled light of a coastal oak tree canopy to create a welcoming environment for riders. The new shelters are in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and provide better sightlines for improved rider safety and were funded with State Transportation funds designated for bus shelters and route infrastructure.
“The City of Claremont had a unique and artistic vision for our new bus shelters that Tolar was able to turn into a reality”, said Jeremy Swan, City of Claremont Community Services Director. “Our community and bus riders have had a positive response to the new shelters, which incorporate Claremont history, art, and functionality.”
The custom shelters feature two sizes with angular roof designs in 18-foot and 8-ft configurations with coordinating color roof panels, as well as perforated aluminum walls with a customized color-palette inspired by the historic Pacific Electric Railway and the vibrant local flora. The custom finished walls are coated in a durable baked powder coat, with coordinated colors selected from Tolar’s RAL color chart. The wall panel perforated patterns feature various locally inspired designs, including “Historic Route 66” road signs, a nod to the area’s transportation history. The shelters include 100W roof-mounted solar power systems powering LED lights integrated into the shelter roof, providing dusk-to-dawn security illumination for transit passengers. The shelters have integrated seating with the smaller 8-ft shelters, including two seats arranged around the center of the shelter, while the 18-ft shelters include custom designed benches, all of which fit into the unique, angular design. The 8-ft shelters provide shelter while requiring a smaller footprint and can accommodate limited available space where a full-size shelter may not be suitable.
“We’re proud to partner with the City of Claremont on a project that blends functionality with artistry,” said Scott Williams, Business Development Manager, Tolar Manufacturing Company. “These shelters create an inviting experience for riders, while contributing to a more exciting and vibrant streetscape that reflects and supports the Claremont community.”
