BC Transit services in Metro Vancouver impacted by labor dispute Brian, January 22, 2024January 22, 2024 In Vancouver, 180 workers from CUPE Local 4500 are striking, leading to a two-day shutdown of certain TransLink services, with a full resumption expected Wednesday. While alternative transit services remain operational, the union stands firm on its wage increase demands, rejecting the employer’s latest offer and considering further picketing actions. Continue Reading
Ontario How can the TTC improve? Brian, January 16, 2024February 12, 2024 Reece Martin from RMTransit suggests optimizing TTC routes by removing redundant bus stops and introducing express buses with fewer stops for faster service. Brian then compares Toronto’s Route 9 and the faster express Route 99 in Vancouver. Proposal includes re-routing and consolidating services in Scarborough, modifying the 52 service line, and leveraging GO line expansions. Integration strategies also aim to ease congestion on the Yonge line and support future urban growth in the Port Lands, with efficient, ready-to-go bus routes coalescing with upcoming infrastructure like the East Harbour station. Continue Reading
Ontario YRT. Good system that needs work, or bad system needing overhaul Brian, January 9, 2024January 9, 2024 The bus system in York Region faces growing problems due to reduced frequency, contracted services, and outdated scheduling. Proposed improvements for 2024 appear insufficient, with irregular frequencies and limited connectivity causing inconvenience for riders. The region needs a comprehensive overhaul, including simplified scheduling and increased frequency, to encourage car owners to utilize public transit. Continue Reading
BC Could Translink expand to Whistler and Hope and succeed? Brian, January 4, 2024January 4, 2024 The content discusses the potential for Translink to take over public transit operations from Metro Vancouver to Squamish, Whistler, and beyond. It highlights challenges such as funding, bus shortages, and route modifications. The author proposes funding options and route adjustments to improve transit service. The expansion is seen as vital due to population growth and road congestion. Continue Reading
BC Translink bus operator issues 72 hour strike notice for supervisor and other non bus driving positions Brian, January 3, 2024January 8, 2024 The union representing 180+ transit workers in Metro Vancouver has issued a 72-hour strike notice amid negotiations for better working conditions and compensation. The strike, starting with an overtime ban, will impact all operations in the Coast Mountain system. The union hopes for fair negotiations to avoid service disruptions. The last collective agreement expired in December 2022. Continue Reading
News O-Train line 1 in Ottawa had a partial shutdown on January 2 Brian, January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 There was a 5-hour partial shutdown on the O-Train in Ottawa due to concrete debris found in the tunnel at St-Laurent Station. This adds to a series of issues since its 2019 launch, including derailments, door problems, weather damage, and service outages. Today’s shutdown reflects ongoing challenges with the O-Train. Continue Reading
Ontario Durham Region Transit making significant changes today Brian, January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 I live in Durham region and today DRT made several changes made to the schedules throughout the region. The reason for a lot of these changes is the fact there were several buses overcrowded on certain routes heading towards the Amazon facility and Durham College. Buses were running late a… Continue Reading
BC Translink officially starts R6 Rapidbus Jan 1 Brian, December 11, 2023December 11, 2023 The new R6 RapidBus service will begin operations on Scott Road, Metro Vancouver’s highest ridership route, on January 1. Providing high-frequency, reliable service with limited stops, the R6 will travel between Scott Road Station and Newton Exchange, saving up to eight minutes per trip, and be 20% faster than local buses. The route includes dedicated bus lanes and upgraded bus stops for ease and safety of passengers. Continue Reading
News Hamilton LRT progress as of December 4, 2023 Brian, December 4, 2023December 4, 2023 Metrolinx hosted a virtual event about the LRT’s progress, discussing project updates, design changes, and the 2020 Building Transit Faster Act. Hamilton city plans to convert Main St to a two-way road, leading to a redesigned Main Street Bridge over the 403 for LRT. Initial construction steps and property acquisitions have begun, causing some concerns about displacements. However, new residential developments along the LRT route are also proposed. Continue Reading
BC Proposal for up to 7 towers near Langley Skytrain station Brian, December 1, 2023January 2, 2024 Global news BC reported proposals to build seven highrises near the future Willowbrook SkyTrain station in Langley, sparking concerns about rapid city growth. The towers, which could house approximately 2500 new residents, may stress the existing road and school systems. Township Mayor Eric Woodward stated that a new Willowbrook Community Plan will be developed to accommodate growth, considering both the proposed towers and the SkyTrain. However, it will be several years before any proposals are executed. Continue Reading