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TransLink announces dates and routes for new double-decker buses

TransLink has announced that its new double-decker buses will travel through Richmond, Delta and Surrey starting October.
double-decker bus
You’ll be able to ride a double-decker TransLink bus this fall. Photo courtesy TransLink/Facebook

TransLink has announced that its new double-decker buses will travel through Richmond, Delta and Surrey starting October.

The launch comes after a successful four-month pilot project back that started in November 2017, and offers riders almost double the seats of a highway coach. In addition, guests will be able to use plug-in USB charging outlets in the new buses.

The double-deckers also provide panoramic views from the upper deck, staircases with handrails to maximize safety, and full accessibility with a low floor and boarding ramp. Further, TransLink has installed screens that allow customers to see vacant seats before going upstairs.

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.

“The double-deckers are one way we are elevating the customer experience,” says 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.”

TransLink reports that the addition of the double-deck buses to the fleet is made possible by contributions from the federal government through the federal gas tax (90 per cent) and TransLink (10 per cent).

“Modern efficient public transit infrastructure plays an important role in building strong sustainable communities,” said 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.”

Eager commuters will have their chance to board one of the new doubled-deckers from Aug. 17 to Sept. 3 at the TransLink PNE exhibit. Guests may tour the bus as well as an immersive Virtual Reality experience, a 3D animated model “MicroCity” of Vancouver, and much more.

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