Penn Transit's Accessible Bus |
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September 11, 2012,
Volume 59, No. 03 |
This fall Penn Transit will be introducing a new vehicle to its fleet which will increase ridership capacity, provide a smoother ride, and be handicapped accessible.
The A300L Van Hool bus is a low-floor bus that provides ease of entry in compliance with ADA regulations. The bus has a hydraulic ‘kneeling device,’ which can be used when the bus is not in motion, tilting it or lowering it down to normal curb height to allow some wheelchair users to board unaided. It is also equipped with a wheelchair lift, and when combined with a low floor, can provide a nearly level entry.
In addition to expanding options for accessible transit, the new bus saves on maintenance repairs, has a longer lifespan, uses low-sulfur diesel fuel to decrease carbon emissions and increases capacity to 70 riders. Each leather seat is also adorned with the Penn Seal.
The vehicle will begin regular service on the Penn Bus East route starting mid-September. The East route has the highest ridership of the Penn Bus routes at 54,000 individuals annually.
—Brian Shaw, Director of Business Services, Dept. of Transportation and Parking |
