Need a holiday gift idea for that friend or family member who seems to have everything?
While old maps of the Metrorail system may seem like an odd idea for a present, the system is selling the outdated documents at a special price on its Web site as Christmas approaches – two maps for $10.
“A two-for-one special,” said Adrian Sclawy, who oversees Metro’s surplus property. “I always tell people, ‘They’re a collector’s item.’ ”
The maps are among the many surplus items Metro turns into revenue. Last fiscal year, the transit system earned $1.3 million by selling maps, used and damaged vehicles, old rail ties, scrap metal and many other items it could no longer use.
“We have had more vehicles and equipment referred for sale since January, which helped to boost sales,” Sclawy said. “Also, due to high scrap metal prices, even the nonrunning junk cars have brought higher prices.”
Metro began teaming with an auction service in January to sell its surplus property via online sites, such as eBay.com and Craigslist.com. Some of the sales are made directly to freight railroad companies, which can use Metro’s old rails as replacements, and to other transit systems that need material for spare parts. Even old motor oil is sold to recycling companies.
“Even keys unclaimed at our Lost and Found Office have been sold as scrap metal,” Sclawy added.
Items Metro has sold recently via online auctions include a $250 adjustable table, a $2,000 portable vehicle lift and a $5,000 grinding machine. Metro also is selling its outdated parking meters for $25 apiece.
Surplus vehicles sold include a 2005 Ford Crown Victoria with high mileage and engine and transmission problems, which fetched $3,600, and a 1996 Ford pickup truck with body damage that brought in $2,700.
“It’s a creative way to manage resources,” Metro General Manager John Catoe said.
