Bus travel will step up a level this summer after the region’s first scheduled double-decker arrived on the Coast just in time for the holidays.
Sunshine Coast Council partnered with TransLink and Sunbus to launch the double-decker at Alexandra Headland today as an addition to the Sunbus fleet over summer.
“The double-decker is a unique experience for locals and visitors to the region – it’s also a modern and sustainable way to travel, and the views from the top deck are great,” Sunshine Coast Mayor Mark Jamieson said.
“This bus has been manufactured in Queensland and represents world-class design and functionality when it comes to bus transport – we’re encouraging people to make the most of the double-decker during the next couple of months, particularly over the busy festive season.”
The double-decker will run from Monday 3 December until 1 February 2013, operating every day on various Sunbus service routes from Caloundra to Noosa.
Transport Strategy Portfolio Councillor Rick Baberowski said the double-decker was a fun way to travel and hopes it will boost public transport use when the region’s roads are busiest.
“We’re delighted to have this bus on the Sunshine Coast – hopefully while here it will grab people’s attention and encourage new users onto our public transport network, perhaps even for the first time,” he said.
“The bus is state-of-the-art and carries a hefty 96 passengers, which could mean fewer cars on our roads helping to reduce traffic congestion and pollution during our busier summer period.
“There are only two double-decker buses of this kind in Australia and this is the first time we’ve had one as part of our local service – it’s great to be able to offer this experience to the community.
“People can also catch the double-decker for free during council’s Free Holiday Buses program, which is on again from Boxing Day to 6 January.”
The bus meets world-class Euro 5 Vehicle Emission Standards, and offers modern technology including a video monitor on the lower floor showing seat availability on the top deck.
For more information on the double-decker bus visit council’s website or for services and travel times go to the Sunbus website.