SkyTrain route changes coming in advance of Evergreen line

A still image taken from video shows a map of the SkyTrain network. (YouTube / TransLink)

Some major changes to SkyTrain routes will come into effect next month as part of a testing program to get ready for the new Evergreen Extension line.

Under the new operating pattern, which takes effect Oct. 22, the Millennium Line SkyTrain will no longer travel to Waterfront Station. Instead, it will travel between Vancouver's VCC-Clark Station and Burnaby's Lougheed Town Centre.

Once the Evergreen line opens, the Millennium Line will operate between VCC-Clark and Lafarge Lake-Douglas stations.

TransLink says customers can transfer between Expo and Millennium lines at Commercial-Broadway, Lougheed or Production Way-University.

Riders can hop off of one train and onto another on the same platform if they transfer at Production Way-University.

The Expo Line will be split into two branches: One will travel between Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver to King George Station in Surrey. The second will travel between Waterfront and Production Way-University in Burnaby.

TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond said in a statement the organization is focusing on helping its customers make a "smooth transition" to the new operating pattern.

It's hoped that by introducing the changes well in advance of the Evergreen line opening, riders will have a chance to adjust to the changes.

The long-awaited transit line, which connects Vancouver to the Tri-Cities, is slated to open in late 2016.

TransLink has released a video illustrating the new changes, and customers can use the trip planner app to see how the changes could affect their travel plans.