The BC government expanded transit services for the capital region.
Beginning last week, on Monday, January 5th, BC Transit has increased frequency, as well as the hours of service for some bus routes.
This endeavour has reportedly seen changes to several routes in an effort to increase ridership and convenient access to transit in Greater Victoria.
“People in Greater Victoria deserve reliable, convenient transit options that make it easier to get where they need to go,” said Mike Farnworth, Minister of Transportation and Transit.
“By expanding service hours, adding new routes, and improving connections, we’re helping more people choose transit as a safe, affordable and sustainable way to travel.”
According to the Province, Route 40, servicing the Dockyard/UVic via Admirals/McKenzie, is a new route that is intended to improve travel between Esquimalt, View Royal and Saanich.
With this addition, several routes across the system are being adjusted to improve connections and reliability.
Furthermore, service coverage during peak times will be provided in Sooke with changes to Route 65, there are changes to Route 39 to improve service to the new John Horgan Westshore campus, Route 51 has become 51X Westhills/UVic McKenzie Express and Route 72 has been rerouted via Carey Road and Ravine Way to use the new transit-only lane.
BC Transit has also expanded handyDART services to include seven new buses and additional service hours to address peak demand.
“Expanding transit in Greater Victoria isn’t just about adding routes, it’s about making sure everyone can get where they need to go,” said Grace Lore, MLA for Victoria-Beacon Hill.
“With more service hours, improved connections, and increased handyDART capacity, these changes will help people with mobility challenges and others who rely on accessible transit travel safely and conveniently across our region.”
Since 2017, the Province has increased BC Transit’s operating budget by approximately 70% to support transit service levels.
