BC Transit has added a total of 22 new light-duty buses to various transit systems in its area. The 26-foot light-duty ARBOC Spirit of Freedom buses can carry up to 21 seated passengers and provides flexibility for up to two mobility aids, such as wheelchairs.
The buses are equipped with a white LED destination sign that clearly shows the bus number, route name and destination. The interior includes modern vinyl seating and better interior lighting to make the commuting experience more comfortable for riders.
Funding for the buses cost a total of C$4.7 million (US$3.4 million). All funding for the new buses were cost shared through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, where eligible costs for infrastructure and fleet investments are shared between the governments of Canada, the government of British Columbia, local governments and other partners.
The transit systems that received the new buses are as follows:
- Columbia Valley Transit System — one bus, investment of C$225,952 (US$168,012).
- Cowichan Valley Regional Transit System — three buses, investment of C$662,535 (US$492,386)
- Quesnel Transit System — four buses, investment of C$903,808 (US$671,696)
- Williams Lake Transit System — three buses, investment of C$677,856 (US$503,772)
- Kelowna Regional Transit System — four buses, investment of C$839,016 (US$623,544)
- Shuswap Transit System — two buses, investment of C$441,690 (US$328,279)
- Prince George Regional Transit System — five buses, investment of C$1 million (US$779,482)
