Construction is complete at BC Transit’s new Provincial Distribution Centre in Colwood, a major step toward providing a more reliable and efficient transit service for communities across B.C.
BC Transit’s previous warehouse capacity was unable to effectively meet the needs of fleet maintenance activities in British Columbia. The larger, nearly 30,000-square-foot warehouse will help manage the current and expected increase in space needed to support an expanded fleet. The larger warehouse will also ensure that enough parts are in storage to help mitigate supply chain issues and help BC Transit keep buses on the road getting people to school, work and medical appointments.
BC Transit is always looking for new ways to be cost efficient to ensure it has the necessary resources to expand and enhance our services in regions across B.C. This larger warehouse space will eliminate the need for container-based storage and leased spaces, thereby reducing operating costs and improving efficiency.
A new Warehouse Management System will be implemented in the new Provincial Distribution Centre, making it faster and easier for employees to locate, prepare and ensure a timely delivery of parts to all 58 BC Transit systems. This innovative technology will also help our warehouse team be more cost efficient by grouping multiple orders to consolidate shipping across the province.
The Provincial Distribution Centre is funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program. The Government of Canada invested $2,029,483 in infrastructure upgrades. The Government of British Columbia invested $8,445,960 and local governments invested $10,194,951. The total combined investment for the project is $20.6 million.
The larger warehouse will be the central hub for storing and distributing parts for various initiatives including innovative technology like Umo, NextRide, CCTV and future electric buses. Most importantly, it will help BC Transit provide the right part to the right place at the right time, which is essential to keeping buses in service for the next 25 years.
Quotes:
“Every minute saved in getting a bus back on the road is a minute gained for someone trying to reach their destination. This new distribution centre will ensure that our transit system is reliable and dependable, so that that everyone can access the services they need on time.”
George Anderson, Parliamentary Secretary for Transit
“BC Transit’s previous parts warehouse was unable to meet the demands of our expanding fleet. The new Provincial Distribution Centre streamlines parts delivery to our partners. This helps buses get repaired faster and back on the road, which increases reliability for transit riders.”
Erinn Pinkerton, President and Chief Executive Officer for BC Transit
“This project isn’t just about parts and processes – it’s about people. A more reliable transit system means people have better access to work, school, and services across our region. It is an investment in our future to support our growing communities.”
Ryan Windsor, Chair of the Victoria Regional Transit Commission, Mayor of Central Saanich and BC Transit Board Member
Media Contacts
BC Transit Communications
media@bctransit.com
