BC Transit sincerely apologizes to riders in the Victoria Regional Transit System who have been negatively affected by the temporary removal of printed schedules at bus stops in the region.
On November 29, all printed schedules were temporarily removed from bus stops in the Victoria Regional Transit System and replaced with a poster encouraging riders to check our website. The December schedules were not printed. This is not a decision BC Transit made lightly, but the organization was in a tough position as we knew we could not achieve the previously set service levels through the month of December.
Like many public-facing organizations, BC Transit continues to experience temporary labour shortages, which has resulted in the need to, at times, adjust schedules on short notice. This means any printed materials would not provide the most accurate, up-to-date information.
Since taking down the schedules, we’ve heard from customers negatively impacted by the decision and those who are concerned it’s discriminatory. We appreciate the feedback and can assure riders the intention was never to discriminate. However, the organization recognizes that this decision has caused additional barriers for some of our customers, and for that BC Transit apologizes. The feedback we’ve received will help inform our future decisions.
BC Transit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission strive to provide the most safe, reliable and accessible service possible to all our customers.
We expect to be in a better position in the new year for service stability, and will return printed schedules to bus stops in January as soon as the new materials can be produced and installed.
In the meantime, BC Transit can confirm the Riders Guide that was printed for this fall is still valid through to January. BC Transit has a limited amount available, and they were also distributed to various libraries, recreation centres and malls throughout the region. Riders who want to plan their trip in advance or request a printed copy may contact a Customer Service Agent at 250-382-6161, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. weekdays, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sundays or holidays for the most up-to-date information.
We are working to resolve our driver shortage as soon as possible to make sure we continue to deliver services our customers can rely on. We are actively recruiting transit operators and working hard to hire more drivers. We’re looking for people with strong customer service skills, who enjoy interacting with the public and supporting their community. If you or someone you know is looking for a rewarding career with good benefits go to: https://www.bctransit.com/careers.
Media contacts
BC Transit communications
250-880-1303 | media@bctransit.com
