TransLink announces expanded bus services for spring and summer

TransLink is increasing services across numerous routes starting April 21.

TransLink is ramping up service across some of its bus routes to make it easier and more convenient to travel on transit over the warmer seasons.

As of April 21, service will be increased across 35 routes, the transport agency said in a statement Monday.

Commuters will be able to utilize earlier weekday morning services to the North Shore via Route 240, while service will be increased on 16 routes located south of the Fraser River.

Two bus journeys in Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows will be bolstered, to better connect the Katzie First Nation.

The surge in transport offerings is to “address overcrowding around the region,” said Monday’s statement.

One of the busiest bus routes, the Route 23 between Main Street and English Bay, will be replaced with 40-foot buses that will up the capacity of travellers by at least 50 per cent, said TransLink.

An uptick in seasonal service will also be in effect from April 21, to ensure public transit users have better access to the region’s parks, beaches and lakes as the weather warms.

Nine routes will have increased service, including to Stanley Park, Buntzen Lake, and White Pine Beach, while three routes that operate throughout the spring and summer will be reintroduced.

As the school year comes to a close, TransLink will reduce service on its five routes to post-secondary schools.

“We will continue monitoring ridership levels across the region to ensure service is provided where it is needed most,” the statement said.