Vicinity Bus in Penticton
4/13/2012
Penticton residents will see a new, smaller bus on city streets starting next week.
A five week trial process of the Vicinity bus will determine if the smaller, more fuel efficient ride is suitable for the community.
The European inspired Vicinity is a 23 passenger bus and boasts fuel efficiency, lower maintenance costs and drivers say it is easier to drive because it offers improved visibility.
This new bus model is 8.4 metres long and is better suited to smaller communities.
During the trial period information related to impacts on passengers and drivers will determine if the buses will be suited for Penticton.
Test results in other communities have shown long term cost savings and riders comment that they experience a smoother ride compared to the larger buses.
City staff will decide over the next few weeks whether the bus will become a permanent fixture on the streets.
Anita Sthankiya -Penticton