What's Happening in Downsview, ON…

Downsview commuters will soon have a much easier ride to and from the rest of the GTA, thanks to upgrades to the current system.

The Finch 36 West bus route is next in line to receive a new vehicle from the Toronto Transit Commission. Currently, its riders often face having to watch a full bus pass them by while they wait at a stop.

The 60-foot, low floor vehicle will be articulated and have room for 48 seated passengers and an additional 19 standing. This is an improvement over the current 40-foot busses, which have much less room and are not as fuel efficient.

The new bus will run on clean diesel fuel. While not as “green’ as hybrid vehicles, they tend to have fewer problems and are much less costly to operate.

Their three doors will provide plenty of exits, which will make disembarking easier.

Since they are larger, fewer will be needed, which means less of a hold up for traffic and not as many operators; as a result, more money can be spent on improvements in other areas.

It is hoped that the new bus will be ready for service this December. It’s part of the TTC’s $143.7 million in upgrades to its fleet and infrastructure.

The new vehicle may also provide plenty of space that companies can utilize for their advertisements, which may be produced by poster printing companies.