TransLink prepares for potential snowfall in Metro Vancouver

As Metro Vancouver braces for extreme weather conditions this weekend, TransLink said that they are putting in measures to prepare services for snow.

According to a Translink release, the weather initiatives being deployed across Metro Vancouver’s transit system include bringing in additional staff to coordinate service, and coordinating with municipalities on snow-clearing if priority routes are impacted.

The company has also doubled up on phone line capacities to improve communication. It is preparing special trucks to spread anti-icing solution on trolley wires.

If necessary, they may also replace articulated buses with 40 conventional buses, which are better suited for steep, slippery areas.

Adjustments to the Millennium Line trains to increase capacity will also be made in order to accommodate more passengers.

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Should conditions worsen, additional measures will be deployed, Translink added.

These include the installation of brass cutters on some trolley buses, and putting in tire socks on buses on Burnaby Mountain and specific North Shore and Vancouver routes, where hills and traction are an issue.

Translink is encouraging transit riders to build in extra travel time and plan their commutes accordingly.