Bus shelters are an important part of the rider experience. They make waiting for the bus safer, more comfortable, and more accessible, especially in bad weather. The Bus Shelter Program helps municipalities upgrade and install new shelters that share a consistent look, feel, and function across communities.
Program Overview
BC Transit works with local governments to improve shelter infrastructure across British Columbia. Municipalities own and maintain most shelters, while BC Transit provides funding programs, technical support, and design standards to ensure shelters meet safety, accessibility, and durability goals.
Shelter Design
BC Transit’s shelters feature modern, modular designs that are durable, sustainable, and adaptable to different site needs. They are built to withstand vandalism and harsh weather while offering flexibility for future expansion.
Key features include:
Modular components for various sizes and configurations
Solar-powered lighting and energy-efficient LED options
Durable materials that are easy to maintain and repair
The Bus Shelter Program Brochure has illustrations of all available shelter designs, ranging from minor stop upgrades to large transit exchanges.
Shelter Pricing and Purchase Options
Municipalities can choose from the following options to buy or install a BC Transit standard shelter design:
Municipalities can apply for shelter funding by downloading and completing the Application Form (PDF) and emailing it to newshelterprogram@bctransit.com. The application intake typically opens in the fall and applications are due by mid-January.
Download and complete the application form offline. Do not fill it out in your browser. Attach the completed form to your email submission. Include the following for each location in your application:
Concrete Pad Status
If the pad is installed, include as-built drawings, foundation drawings, and site photos.
If the pad is not installed, contact the shelter vendor for updated foundation drawings that meet the latest BC Building Code.
Site Readiness
Include a completed Site Readiness Checklist.
Additional Information
Use the notes section in the form to share project details or related links.
Payment Method
Choose either Direct Lump Sum or 10-Year Lease Fees (added to the Annual Operating Agreement).
Minor Betterments Program
Municipalities may also access additional funding for smaller infrastructure upgrades through the Ministry of Transportation and Transit’s Minor Betterments Program. You can find details on Ministry of Transportation and Transit links below:
