Direct bus service from South Delta to Downtown Vancouver could be on its way back, or not.
That’s the only assurance offered by TransLink planner Matt Craig, who made a presentation to council Monday on the Southwest Area Transit Plan.
Craig went over some of the modifications made to the draft plan based on community input, noting the final draft of the refined transit service will be ready in early 2018. The changes would be implemented over time.
Several council members took the opportunity to once again lobby to have the 601 service to downtown restored, something Delta has been pushing since the route was discontinued in 2009 with the opening of the Canada Line. Now transit users trying to get into Vancouver from South Delta must take the bus to the Bridgeport Station in Richmond and get onto the Canada Line.
Craig explained the decision to direct transit passenger to the rapid transit station was to maximize the investment made in the Canada Line. Although some people may not like the idea of having to transfer, the rapid transit service is a far more faster and reliable way to get to town, he explained. He added that buses going to rapid transit is good design used around the world.
When told seniors like having a direct service without having to transfer, Craig noted the idea of having a direct bus may be explored. However, that would have to involve a partnership with the community such as seniors organizations or the city. The councillors wouldn’t say if Delta was willing to pay to have such a service restored.
Some of the other issues discussed Monday included the 601 bus with Coun. Robert Campbell complaining it always leaves Bridgeport mostly empty just as the Canada Line arrives, leaving passengers having to take a packed 602 bus. Craig said TransLink will look into scheduling concerns.
