Short-term plan to help alleviate overcrowding with long-term solution still to be found

March 22, 2024               

NEW WESTMINSTER, B.C. – TransLink is engaging on a new Investment Plan that will begin to address critical service gaps over the next year and respond to Metro Vancouver’s unprecedented population growth, while preparing to implement the 10-year Access for Everyone plan.

The proposed 2024 Investment Plan addresses urgent short-term transit needs, while TransLink continues working with the Mayors’ Council and the Province of BC on developing a sustainable long-term funding solution.

Proposed increases to service will begin in September 2024, and will include:

• Increasing service on 60 bus routes to address overcrowding
• Extending evening hours on 11 bus routes
• Expanding the bus fleet to prepare for Bus Rapid Transit
• Increasing Canada Line frequencies
• Earlier SeaBus sailings by 15 minutes on weekdays
• Enhancing late-evening HandyDART service
• Investing in road safety and new cycling and walking infrastructure
• Adding new bus priority infrastructure

The 2024 Investment Plan serves as a short-term measure, bridging the gap until the next Investment Plan, anticipated for 2025, which will offer longer-term solutions to the region’s growth. This Investment Plan includes increasing transit fares in July by 5-10 cents for an average trip, as previously announced. There will be a proposed increase to property taxes of $3.08 a month for the median household.

TransLink continues to work with senior government partners to secure a new funding model that will support regional transportation and keep up with growth for years to come.

TransLink is now accepting public comments on the 2024 Investment Plan until April 5. Those interested can participate in the consultation on TransLink’s website.

More information:
Participate in engagement here
TransLink’s Investment Plan Discussion Guide is available here

Media contact:
TransLink Media Relations
E: media@translink.ca