In the 1930s work began on an east side rapid transit line. The Great Depression stopped the project before completion. After WW II, CTS revived the idea, along with a downtown subway. Though the latter never materialized, the CTS Rapid line opened in 1955. The new cars were based on technology first developed for PCC cars. But instead of the PCC’s sleek shape and street level loading, the CTS rapids had high platform loading and short boxy bodies better suited to subways. Most people called them “Bluebirds” due to their color scheme. Less charitably, many Clevelanders also called them “Spam Cans”.
| Builder | St. Louis Car Company |
| Type | PCC Rapid Transit Car |
| Description | Double End Double Truck Arch Roof Steel Rapid |
| Year Built | 1954 |
| Retired | 1985 |
| Acquired | 1988 |
| Seats | 52 |
| Length | 48′ 6″ |
| Width | 10′ 4″ |
| Height | 11′ 9″ |
| Weight | 56,000 |
| Trucks | PCC Rapid Transit |
| Motors | (4) WH 1432H, 55hp |
| Control | WH Cinesto |
| Brakes | WAB |
| Compressor | WH |