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Council approves purchase of two battery-electric double-deck buses to increase capacity for events and peak routes
Summary
Gardena approved the purchase of two Alexander Dennis Enviro500 battery-electric double-deck buses (total ~$4.59M) to expand capacity on crowded routes and support event service; the purchase is supported by Measure R South Bay funds and includes a contingency for tariffs and build changes.
The Gardena City Council authorized the purchase of two battery-electric double-deck buses on March 10 as part of a plan to increase on-route capacity and to prepare for large-event transit demand.
GTrans staff described the vehicles as Enviro500 battery-electric double-deck buses with approximately 81 passenger capacity (seated and standing) compared with about 42 passengers on typical 40-foot buses. "This increased capacity allows a single bus operated by one driver to carry nearly twice as many passengers," staff said during the council presentation. Staff noted particular benefits for the 7X event route and other high-demand services, and said preliminary testing and a mockup run on city routes had been completed.
The contract price for two buses, including delivery, extended warranty and spare parts, was reported at $4,594,307; staff requested authority for a 25% contingency ($1,148,577) to cover possible tariffs and build changes. Funding would be supported by Measure R South Bay Transit Improvement Program allocations (Metro-administered) and local capital. The Metro Board has approved the project; final Memorandum of Understanding was expected to be presented to council in the coming months. Alexander Dennis provided a cancellation option through Sept. 1, 2026, should the funding MOU not finalize.
Council discussed training needs, charging infrastructure timelines and depot upgrades; GTrans said driver licensing is not different from existing commercial licenses but that new bus washes, bay modifications, and charger installations are planned as part of related capital work. The council approved the purchase and contingency authorization; staff will proceed with facility upgrades, charger procurement and a vehicle-delivery schedule in coordination with Metro funding requirements.
What's next: GTrans will procure charging infrastructure and bus-wash upgrades, schedule driver and mechanic training included in the purchase, and coordinate with Metro on funding and event-service planning.
