TransLink warns snow could cause delays for commuters
Posted February 25, 2023 4:31 pm.
Last Updated February 25, 2023 4:33 pm.
If you’re planning on taking transit this weekend, TransLink says it’s best to check your route beforehand.
Ahead of the snow, TransLink says it’s preparing for any disruptions on SkyTrains and buses Saturday through Sunday.
“We’re going to be doing everything we can to keep transit moving for customers. It’s best that you just check before you go. We’re going to be communicating every transit change as it happens,” said Translink spokesperson Dan Mountain.
Mountain says the transit provider has also doubled its communication capacity with local municipalities.
“We activate what’s called a ‘snow desk’ which is essentially dispatchers that are communicating with the operators about any tricky spots on the roads and communicating that directly to the municipalities.”
Mountain says dispatchers pinpoint to municipalities which exact routes and roads need the most priority for clearing.
“Our buses are only as good as the roads they drive on,” he noted.
Related: Air Canada warns about delays, possible cancellations at YVR ahead of snow
TransLink says it is also switching the longer 60-foot buses into 40-foot buses where they can, as the shorter buses are more agile in the snow.
“Same number of trips, just that there could be smaller buses on some routes.”
Good morning! We're ready to roll! So far the snow has yet to fall but it's chilly out there so make sure you bundle up and dress for the weather today. Check the status of your bus in real time so you spend less time waiting in the cold: https://t.co/CuruCkzvjS ^DA pic.twitter.com/Eo3tVKOgcX
— TransLink BC (@TransLink) February 25, 2023
Mountain says there may possibly be bigger crowds taking transit due to the small buses, but it will depend if people travel less during the snow.
TransLink says the best way to be up to date about transit changes and delays would be to sign up for transit alerts, check TransLink’s Twitter, or call TransLink’s information team.
Environment Canada says up to 35 centimetres could fall across the region starting Saturday afternoon.
with files from Angela Bower.
