B.C. Pumps $300 Million into Buses for Crowded Metro Vancouver Transit
The British Columbia government is allocating up to $300 million to help TransLink, Metro Vancouver's transit authority, purchase new buses for general public transport services to ease the crowding in the region.
In Short:
- British Columbia is investing $300 million to help Metro Vancouver's transit authority, TransLink, buy more buses.
- This aims to tackle overcrowding and wait times for commuters by increasing bus frequency and extending operating hours on over 60 routes.
- The funding is part of a larger effort to improve public transit in the region, following $479 million previously allocated by the province.
As per the local news sources, Metro Vancouver Transit is too crowded and it is because there are fewer busses than there should be this latest $300 million investment will lead to ease of overcrowding. This investment by the government also aims to address public issues with overcrowding and improve wait times for commuters across the region.
Transportation Minister Rob Fleming announced the funding, stating it will allow TransLink to expand its bus fleet, leading to more frequent service and extended operating hours for over 60 routes.
Brad West, chair of the mayors' council on regional transportation, welcomed the investment but emphasized the need for a long-term solution as pumping millions every year is not a great idea.
West also expressed his hope for continued collaboration with the provincial and federal governments to develop a sustainable funding model for long-term transit expansion and enhancements. He highlighted Metro Vancouver's booming population and the need for a transit system that can keep pace in the long run.
Additionally, the latest $300 million funding will support increased late-evening service for HandyDART, a paratransit program for individuals with disabilities. - The Canadian Press reported.
This new funding builds on $479 million previously provided by the province last year to make improvements in the services. TransLink will utilize these remaining funds for immediate improvements for ease of local people, the improvements include increased service frequency and extended operating hours for many routes to count.
