Transit riders will get a chance to test out the new double-decker buses starting now in Richmond and South Delta, Langley, Surrey and White Rock.

The pilot project is a way to test double-decker buses on long distance communter routes.

The 2 buses were supplied at no charge by British bus manufacturer Alexander Dennis.

The double-decker buses can seat 80-86 passengers, up to 83% more than the older highway coaches, and have double overall capacity.

The pilot program will allow TransLink to see how double-decker buses fare in the Lower Mainland, both from a customer experience and operational standpoint, and to evaluate bus depot requirements.

TransLink is preparing for 1.2 million more people in the region over the next 30 years. With growing suburban demand in communities south of the Fraser River, they are looking at new ways to ensure that transit is an attractive option for commuters.

Double-decker buses are currently working very well in other cities, such as Victoria and Seattle and should work well here as well. And yes, they can fit through the tunnel!!