The Victoria Regional Transit System is rolling out the first two of 39 new double-decker buses, helping strengthen public transit across the region with safe and reliable transportation.
The new Enviro 500 model Alexander Dennis buses will help customers move through high-demand routes, like the 95 Blink RapidBus, which has over 11,000 daily boardings, efficiently connecting people from Langford, Colwood, View Royal and Saanich to Victoria and back.
Each bus has capacity to seat 80 passengers, with room for up to an additional 24 standing passengers on the lower level. They also include a range of convenient features, such as:
Umo fare payment technology for faster, more convenient pay options and trip-planning tools;
USB ports (including both USB A&C) at each seat to charge mobile devices;
BC Transit’s NextRide system for real-time bus locations and onboard audio stop announcements on both the upper and lower levels;
Full-colour digital screens that display NextRide information like upcoming stops, current route, and service alerts;
A monitor at the bottom of the stairs to view upper-level seating availability;
Two improved mobility aid positions for wheelchair securement;
Modern vinyl seating that is easy to clean and resists dirt and contaminants;
Bike rack to accommodate two bikes with tires up to 3 inches wide;
Side-mounted ‘docking lights’, which are designed to illuminate the bus stop area and increase safety for boarding and exiting passengers; and
Numerous maintenance and operator improvements to increase vehicle reliability and operational performance.
Of the 39 new buses, 29 will replace existing buses nearing the end of their service life to keep service in the Victoria Regional Transit System (VRTS) dependable. The remaining 10 buses will expand the VRTS fleet, supporting service expansion announced in January 2026.
Twenty-nine double decker buses were funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), with approximate contributions each from the Government of Canada ($20.99M), Province of British Columbia ($21.89M), and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission ($12.4M) for a total of $55.3M.
The remaining 10 double-decker purchase was made possible through a cost-sharing agreement between the Province of British Columbia ($8.4M) and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission ($12.0M) for a total of $20.4M.
“We’re proud to mark the arrival of these new double‑decker buses, which will boost capacity, improve reliability, and enhance the overall transit experience for people across the region. This investment underscores our commitment to sustainable, accessible transportation and to supporting efforts to ensure that communities in Victoria are served by a modern, dependable transit system.”
Will Greaves, Member of Parliament for Victoria
“Investing in modern transit infrastructure is about building stronger, more connected communities throughout British Columbia. These new double-decker buses provide more seats, better accessibility, and the latest features riders expect. Together, we are delivering modern, dependable service that keeps pace with the region’s growth and gives people more convenient and reliable options for travelling around Greater Victoria.”
Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit
“Our double-decker buses are iconic in the Victoria region. The arrival of new buses marks the start of a significant investment in transit for the Victoria Regional Transit System. The 39 new buses arriving this year will help maintain reliable service on some of our busiest routes, keeping people connected to places like the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, the West Shore, the University of Victoria and downtown. Thank you to our funding partners and everyone working to bring these buses into service.”
Erinn Pinkerton, President and Chief Executive Officer for BC Transit
“On behalf of the Victoria Regional Transit Commission, I’m thrilled to welcome these new double‑decker buses to the fleet. This investment strengthens reliable, high‑capacity transit for our growing region and enhances the experience for the thousands of riders who depend on BC Transit every day. We’re proud to see partners at all levels come together to deliver modern, comfortable, and accessible service for our communities.”
Ryan Windsor, Chair, Victoria Regional Transit Commission
