ST. PAUL, Minn. (May 19, 2009) – As one of the premier attractions in the state of Minnesota with nearly two million annual visitors, Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is helping its visitors “get closer” to the plants, animals and more with the addition of a new shuttle bus service.

In an effort to improve service, quality and reduce greenhouse gases, three IC Bus LC Series low-emissions diesel shuttle buses were purchased by the City of Saint Paul and leveraged by a $1.6 million federal grant. The buses will be in continuous operation at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory on weekends from 9:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Memorial Day through September.

“It’s been great to work with the City of Saint Paul and the folks at the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory to deliver these new shuttle buses,” said Holly Hoglund Klein, vice president and general manager, Hoglund Bus & Truck. “Our IC Bus LC Series buses will provide a comfortable, convenient and environmentally friendly solution for park visitors.”

The Como Park Zoo and Conservatory is offering this new free service as a way to ease traffic congestion in and around the park, improve safety, mitigate vehicle emissions while improving air quality and ease the possible frustration of circling the parking lot in hopes of securing one of those rare open parking spots.

“Our new shuttle service is a great addition to the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory,” states Michelle Furrer, Como Campus Manager. “Adding the shuttle buses to our park will provide a great benefit and service to our guests as well as the entire Saint Paul community.”

The IC Bus LC Series buses are wheelchair and stroller accessible and allow passengers to board at the staffed off-site parking lot location. Within minutes, visitors can be dropped off at the front door of the Como Park Zoo and Conservatory Visitor Center.

About Hoglund Bus & Truck
Over the past 60 years, with a commitment to customer satisfaction, Hoglund Bus & Truck has evolved as a leader in the transportation industry. Their two locations, Monticello, Minn. and Marshalltown, Ia.,carry extensive inventories of new and used school buses, commercial buses, medium duty trucks, and related parts and services. Additional information is available site at www.hoglundbusandtruck.com. 

About IC Bus
IC Bus, LLC of Warrenville, Ill., is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Navistar, Inc. (NYSE: NAV). The nation’s largest integrated manufacturer of school buses, IC Bus is a global leader in passenger protection, chassis design, engines and ergonomics. The company is also a producer of commercial buses. All IC Bus buses are sold, serviced and supported through a renowned dealer network that offers an integrated customer program encompassing parts, training and service.