The Boeing LRV was part of the Nixon's administration of "Buy American" program. By the early to mid 70's all of the major streetcar manufacturers had fallen by the wayside. Boeing was or their Vertol (helicopter group) was diversifying with the post-Vietnam drawdown. You needed new cars you bought American and federal aid and so on. It was a noble thought, be since Boeing was a plane manufacture you got a streetcar that was probably better in the air than on tracks. The first real electronic gizmo car, mono-motor (one motor per truck), better keep those wheels the same size, airplane style of doors.
Even if San Fransisco was first Boston would still have issues, the Tremont St subway was built for 26' streetcars originally and haven't changed a whole bunch since. So there is no streetcar off the rack for Boston! MUNI would have their unique and Boston would have their own problems.
As far as I know only the Boeing's were hidden from view in the Tremont St tunnel, so they were already purchased. None went anywhere except 3424 to the Seashore Trolley Museum.
Not sure if that clarifies or clouds.
JoeD
JoeD
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