VICTORIA _ Construction begins today on Phase 1 of bus lanes on Douglas Street. Phase 1 focuses on the creation of shared bus and bike lanes from Fisgard Street to Hillside Avenue. The improvements are designed to shorten travel times for transit customers, increase the reliability of public transit and reduce harmful GHGs by limiting idling and lowering the number of vehicles on the road. The shared bus and bike lanes will operate in peak traffic times, Monday through Friday, from 6 a.m.to 9 a.m. and from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m.
The Victoria Regional Transit Commission will fund the $1.5 million dollars that is required to complete Phase 1 and Phase 2. Phase 2 includes the creation of a northbound bus lane from Hillside to Tolmie.
“The Commission unanimously supported this exciting initiative that will get buses and their passengers more quickly through this pivotal corridor in the Victoria Regional Transit System,” said Victoria Regional Transit Commission Chair Susan Brice.
The City of Victoria has championed the opportunity to implement the first phases in Victoria, placing priority on making the peak period commute faster and smoother. The bus lanes will accommodate cyclists, and are another vital step that will encourage residents to make healthier choices beyond the single occupancy vehicle.
“Public transit is critical to healthy, vibrant communities _ it reduces emissions, improves affordability, and supports our region’s main employment centre,” said Victoria Mayor Dean Fortin. “Dedicated bike and bus lanes will help transit riders and cyclists move faster during peak commute times. These lanes are an important first step to improve travel time and reduce congestion into the city.”
“This is a critical first step to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of public transit in the region,” said BC Transit President and CEO Manuel Achadinha. “Once all improvements are complete on Douglas Street, BC Transit and its customers will benefit from both cost and time savings.”
Construction on Phase 1 is expected to be complete by the end of May 2014. The scope of the project includes changing lane markings, removing sidewalk extensions, installing a new pedestrian signal at Douglas and Pembroke and moving bus stops.
For more information on the project please visit www.bctransit.com/transitfuture/vrptc_latestupdates.cfm
Media contacts:
Katie Hamilton
City of Victoria
Director of Communications and Civic Engagement
250.361.0210
khamilton@victoria.ca
Meribeth Burton
BC Transit
Corporate Spokesperson
250.995.5720
media@bctransit.com
