CHENEY, Wash. – Spokane Transit Authority (STA) has introduced double-decker buses, aiming to enhance connections between Cheney and Spokane.
The official ribbon-cutting for this new service took place today at Eagle Station in Cheney. STA leaders believe this addition will improve reliability and speed for commuters and students traveling to Spokane.
Crowds gathered to celebrate the first day of service, with city officials and STA leaders in attendance.
“So these buses have been a long time coming,” Karl Otterstrom, CEO of STA, said. “They’re part of our plan for more and better bus service across the region. And this allows us to expand the capacity of service to Cheney. They’re really cool and they also are a good quality ride for our customers.”
The new buses will operate between Cheney and downtown Spokane, offering more seats and a smoother ride. Local families and Eastern students were eager to see the new fleet firsthand.
Katie Gleeson, a resident, shared her excitement.
“I think it’s really exciting. I have a son who loves the bus. We watch the bus every morning. And the bus drivers always wave. I think the STA does a really nice job of connecting places around the area. And I also think that it’s fun to have events like this because it brings people together,” she said.
For Eastern Washington University (EWU) alums and public transit supporters, the double-deckers provide a new commuting option.
“That’s a game changer to be able to get students in from the core of our city, outlying areas with an additional larger piece of public transit,” Rae-Lynn Barden, an EWU alum, said. “I know when I was going to school here, that would have been a huge asset to have to be able to commute back and forth.”
The double-decker buses began their service today, enhancing travel between Cheney and downtown Spokane.
