If transit is going to expand rapidly over the next three decades, where in the Tri-Cities would you like to see that happen?
Well, TransLink - the company that operates SkyTrain, bus and other rapid transit options across Metro Vancouver - wants to know and only has less than a week left on its public engagement process for that very topic.
Transport 2050 has put 100 recommended transportation actions forward and is set to be finalized in the months ahead.
SO, WHAT'S TRANSLINK'S STRATEGY?
Its primary takeaway: the region's rapid transit system needs to quadruple by 2050 with 300 km of new routes including SkyTrain, subway, light rail, or bus rapid transit.
And, with growth projections showing a huge influx into the region by 2050, transit expansion will be needed.
“Metro Vancouver grew from 2.38 million people in 2011 to 2.59 million people in 2016. Regional Planning’s modelling shows that this growth trend will continue. The region is anticipated to reach about 3.8 million people by 2050,” said an April Metro Vancouver Regional District report.
Other key TransLink recommendations include completing an 850-km traffic-separated major bikeway network to connect communities with greener, healthier transportation options and promoting electric and shared vehicles such as bikes, scooters, and cars.
“Based on the input, we will update the strategy before sending to the TransLink Board and Mayors’ Council for final approval in early 2022,” TransLink said in a news release.
“Transport 2050 will have wide-reaching benefits on our lifestyles in Metro Vancouver,” said Mayors’ Council chair and New Westminster mayor Jonathan Coté. “Our ability to move around has massive impacts on our quality of life, climate change, and our potential to grow as a region.”
B.C.’s Minister of State for Infrastructure Bowinn Ma said Victoria is committed to reliable, affordable, low-carbon travel options.
TransLink said its also been working with Indigenous Nations and the general public throughout the engagement process.
Its final report is set to be presented to the board, as well as the Mayors' Council on Regional Transportation.
The last day for Tri-City residents to participate in the engagement process is next Friday (Oct. 29).
For more information or to provide input on Transport 2050, you're encouraged to visit the initiative's website.
- with files from Jeremy Hainsworth, Glacier Media
