Sidney takes big step toward new transit hub near Mary Winspear Centre

Plans to bring a RapidBus route to Sidney are rolling forward as the Town officially signed off on a new agreement with BC Transit that pushes the long-discussed transit hub closer to reality.

At its April 29th meeting, Sidney council approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with BC Transit, supporting the design phase of a new transit exchange at Seventh Street and Bevan Avenue—right near the Mary Winspear Centre.

The project is part of BC Transit’s larger vision for a RapidBus line connecting downtown Victoria with the Swartz Bay ferry terminal. Sidney’s transit hub would act as a key stop along the route, helping bring faster, more frequent service through the Saanich Peninsula.

While a final design is still a ways off, the MOU lets BC Transit move ahead with developing detailed plans. The company expects to reach 90% design completion by mid-2026, with public engagement and design updates happening along the way.

BC Transit previously explored multiple site options for the RapidBus stop, including shoulder stops on Highway 17, but found that Seventh and Bevan offered a better rider experience, more cost-efficiency, and faster construction timelines.

According to the Town’s report, the preferred layout involves using Lot E (a town-owned parking lot) for an off-street exchange with five bus bays, shelters, new sidewalks and lighting, crosswalks, and features like bike racks, street furniture, and a drinking fountain. Other elements being considered include traffic signal changes, utility upgrades, and a public washroom.

“This project offers a great opportunity for Sidney to support improved public transportation while aligning with our Official Community Plan, Active Transportation Plan, and Climate Action Plan,” said Director of Engineering Jenn Clary in the staff report.

Importantly, no funding is being requested from the Town at this stage. BC Transit will cover the design phase costs, and the project will rely on future funding applications to federal, provincial, and regional sources. If additional upgrades are added beyond a standard transit hub—like underground utility work—those would be budgeted separately by the Town.

The push for better transit infrastructure in Sidney stems from the 2022 Peninsula Local Area Transit Plan, where residents and stakeholders shared their thoughts through surveys, workshops, and online mapping. While some preferred express service along Highway 17, the Seventh and Bevan location still received strong support.

As part of its next steps, BC Transit will launch a public engagement website, install signage at the site, and work with surrounding residents and businesses to gather feedback and address concerns.

The Town of Sidney will also promote the project through its usual channels like social media and newsletters.

If all goes to plan, Sidney’s new transit hub could become a cornerstone of public transportation on the Peninsula—making it easier and faster for locals and visitors to travel across the region.