Who was Peter Witt?

Peter Witt was Cleveland's transit commissioner during Mayor Tom L. Johnson's tenure. Between 1915 and 1918 the two re-designed Cleveland's center-door streetcars to load through a front door. Patrons could ride in the front of the car (configured for maximum standing room), and leave through the first center door. Or they could pass through to the rear (where most of the seats were), exiting via the second center door. Either way, riders paid as they passed the farebox, which was relocated from between the center doors to just ahead of them. Known formally as "The Car Rider's Car" (or Pay As You Pass system), Witt's design greatly improved operating efficiency, and was soon in use from Italy to Australia.

Back to Toronto Transit Commission Peter Witt Car # 2778

Last Updated 01/27/08