More of TransLink's double-decker buses entered service this week

There are more double-decker buses rolling on TransLink’s suburban routes as of this week.

These new vehicles are now also running on the No. 555 between Lougheed Town Centre Station in Burnaby and Carvolth Exchange in Langley.

According to the public transit authority, there are currently 18 double-decker buses in service on the No. 555, as well as the No. 620 between Bridgeport Station and Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, and the No. 301 between Richmond-Brighouse Station and Newton Exchange.

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As part of the initial order, 14 more double-decker buses will go into service over the coming months for a total of 32 buses.

TransLink has exercised an order of an additional 25 double-decker buses, which will begin arriving from UK-based manufacturer Alexander Dennis by the end of 2020. When all of the buses arrive, the double-decker bus fleet will grow to a total of 57 vehicles.

Each bus costs about $1 million — about the same cost as a 60-ft-long articulated bus.

These buses have the same length as a standard 40-ft bus, but they fit far more passengers, with seating capacity alone reaching 83 people — an 83% increase over the existing coaches.

Interior features include plug-in USB charging outlets, an LCD television screen allowing passengers to spot vacant seats before going upstairs, a wide and well-lit staircase with handrails, and full accessibility with a low-floor and boarding ramp.

The first double-decker buses went into service in October of last year.