NFI subsidiary, Alexander Dennis has been awarded a contract to supply seven Enviro500 double decker buses to Spokane Transit Authority (STA) in Washington state.
These will be the first double-decker transit buses to operate in Spokane and its surrounding areas.
Specifically, the new buses will serve Spokane Transit’s Cheney service on routes 6 and 66, connecting Eastern Washington University, the West Plains Transit Center, downtown Spokane and the University District.
These routes have a combined average weekday ridership of 1,900 daily passengers and will thus benefit from the Enviro500’s capacity for 84 seated passengers. The two-floored buses also offer level boarding to enhance accessibility for all passengers, including those in wheelchairs.
STA CEO E. Susan Meyer said:Spokane Transit is thrilled to add the iconic double deckers to our fleet. These new buses along with Eagle Station and Four Lakes Station, complete the Cheney Line investments promised in STA Moving Forward, the organisation’s current 10-year plan.
The new buses will be built in the US through the recently announced partnership between Alexander Dennis and Big Rig Manufacturing. They are scheduled to be delivered in 2025.
Stephen Walsh, Alexander Dennis Vice-President North America, said:We’re delighted to add Spokane Transit to the roster of transit agencies that value the benefits of double-deck buses including their unrivalled passenger capacity on a compact road footprint. Commuters will enjoy great views from the top deck and a comfortable ride, taking public transportation to a new level.
