SQUAMISH, BC – The District of Squamish and BC Transit are pleased
to announce an extra 3,100 annual service hours are being added to the local
transit network. Customers can expect to see a series of service improvements
that will take effect on September 1, 2013 and October 15, 2013.
Starting September 1, customers will now enjoy extended evening transit hours
until 11 pm, six nights a week Monday through Saturday. In addition, BC Transit
buses will be running on Sundays and holidays at introductory service levels.
As of October 15, a new route will be introduced to the system. Route #4
Tantalus will connect the Tantalus neighbourhood and Highlands Mall to downtown
Squamish during weekday peak periods.
“With a rapidly growing community, these improvements to transit will
help to better meet and serve the current and future needs of the residents
of Squamish. Investing in the transit system is investing in families all over
British Columbia and it starts in each community,” said Jordan Sturdy,
MLA for West Vancouver-Sea to Sky.
“We are thrilled to be in a position to announce these service level enhancements
and respond to the growing needs of the Squamish community through our partnership
with BC Transit,” said District of Squamish Mayor Rob Kirkham. “Improving
access to transit helps our community on so many different levels and we look
forward to seeing increased ridership and all the benefits that will bring.”
The changes to the transit schedule are designed to meet the needs of the community.
Those needs were expressed during an extensive public consultation period in
October 2012.
Ridership on Squamish Transit has increased by 6% in the past year, from 203,814
trips in 2011/12 to 216,120 passenger trips in 2012/13.
“We are pleased to partner with the District of Squamish to expand transit
service hours and coverage area,” said BC Transit President and CEO Manuel
Achadinha. “The more efficient and effective we can make the transit system,
the better it serves our customers and the community at large.”
For more information on the changes please pick up a Rider’s Guide on
the bus, call 604.892.5559 or consult www.bctransit.com/regions/squ
Media Contact:
Meribeth Burton
Corporate Spokesperson | BC Transit
d: 250.995.5720
c: 250.507.8145
meribeth_burton@bctransit.com
