SPOKANE, Wash. — Spokane Transit Authority’s double-decker buses hit the streets again Wednesday for the first time in a month, equipped with enhanced safety measures following a crash that prompted officials to pull the entire fleet from service.
The buses, which typically operate on routes 6 and 66 between Spokane and Cheney, have been sidelined since one crashed into a downtown viaduct in January. STA conducted road tests Wednesday to evaluate new safety protocols before passengers get back on board.
“We’ve heard since they’ve gone out of service that people are excited to have them back in service,” said Brandon Rapez-Betty, STA’s chief operations officer.
The transit authority has implemented comprehensive new safety measures for the double-decker fleet. All drivers will undergo a second round of training with new protocols before returning to service.
Under the enhanced procedures, drivers must check in with dispatch when they start their routes to confirm they understand height restrictions. Operators are also required to make a safety stop before passing under every viaduct and confirm with dispatch that they are clear to drive under.
“It’s reminding them where those safety notices are. It’s reminding them that the only authorized route, which is Jefferson Street. It’s also reminding them that they are the sole responsible driver of the vehicle. And so they utilize their tools, but they ultimately make the judgment when operating any vehicle,” Rapez-Betty explained.
Navigation systems will remain turned off for now, requiring drivers to rely entirely on their training rather than automated guidance. The enhanced protocols also include reminders about authorized routes and driver responsibilities.
“The incident that happened was an anomaly. And we had an initial training with all of these features, but we’re going to double down. We’re going to look at everything again, and we’re taking those additional measures just to make sure that everyone stays safe,” Rapez-Betty said.
To further reassure passengers, both STA’s CEO and chief operations officer plan to ride aboard the first passenger trip when service resumes.
“We’re excited to have them in service but also reassure everybody that we have a safe operation,” Rapez-Betty said.
While the buses returned to the roads for testing Wednesday, passengers cannot board yet. STA officials said they hope to have six double-decker buses fully operational by the end of February.
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