Double-decker buses are coming to the Richmond, Delta and Surrey, B.C., areas this October after a successful four-month pilot.
The first of 32 double-decker buses on order have arrived to expand the current fleet and replace aging highway coaches, providing a less crowded and more comfortable experience for customers.
The first double deckers will service the 301 Newton Exchange / Richmond-Brighouse station and the 620 Bridgeport / Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. The 555 Lougheed Station / Carvolth Exchange route will be added January 2020.
Customers travelling on a double-decker bus will benefit from:
· Almost double the seats of a highway coach;
· Plug-in USB charging outlets;
· Panoramic views from the upper deck;
· A wide, well-lit staircase with handrails to maximize safety;
· A screen allowing customers to see vacant seats before going upstairs; and
· Full accessibility with a low floor and boarding ramp.
An order of 25 more double deckers is scheduled to arrive by Fall 2020, expanding to more routes throughout the region.
“The double deckers are one way we are elevating the customer experience,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond. “This addition to our fleet not only improves capacity on our busier long-haul routes but also provides a unique experience to our customers.”
The addition of the double-decker buses to the fleet is made possible by contributions from the Federal Government through the Federal Gas Tax (90 percent) and TransLink (10 percent).
“Modern, efficient public transit infrastructure plays an important role in building strong sustainable communities,” said the Honorable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities. “These new double-decker buses will help Metro Vancouver meet immediate needs and provide convenient, accessible transportation options that will improve the quality of life for residents today and contribute to a greener future.”
For the first chance to board a double decker, one will be available for viewing at TransLink’s PNE exhibit. From August 17 to September 2, people can tour the exhibit which features a double-decker bus as well as an immersive virtual reality experience, a 3D animated model “MicroCity” of Vancouver and much more.
Quick Facts:
· Route 301 had a 21 percent increase in ridership in 2018 over the year before.
· Route 620 had a 14 percent increase in ridership in 2018 over the year before.
· The 555 reported over one million boardings in 2018.
