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One of the buses in OC Transpo’s fleet is not like the others.
Instead of the usual seats adorned with blue fabric upholstery, the ones on Bus 4715 are made of plastic.
It’s part of a new six-month pilot project to test out “an alternative option for seats,” according to OC Transpo.
In a statement to CBC, the transit agency said it’s following the lead of other cities that have recently made the switch to plastic and reported easier cleaning and reduced maintenance costs.
It added that the hard surface seating is built with “durable, vandal-resistant materials,” and feature an “ergonomic” design.
“This type of seating is the option that the industry is trending towards,” the agency said.
OC Transpo rider Kira Stewart says she prefers fabric seats. (Arthur White-Crummey/CBC)
But not everyone’s on board. OC Transpo rider Kira Stewart told CBC that she likes the fabric seats.
“The plastic seats would be easier to clean, and probably more convenient for the actual buses, but I think I do prefer the fabric seats just [for] overall comfort and aesthetic,” Stewart said.
Robert Salter, who also uses public transit regularly, agrees.
“I think it’s really just about cost savings,” he told CBC. “It won’t be conducive to people with disabilities or elderly people who need a little bit better comfort.”
The city is seeking feedback from riders. A survey is available on the city’s website until Oct. 2.