TransLink would like to provide some additional context to Jeff Nagel’s article, “No stops in Surrey for the Port Mann express buses,” (The Leader, Nov. 21).
TransLink’s Moving Forward plan, originally intended to be implemented this year, did include two high-quality Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines: the Highway 1 bus from Carvolth Transit Exchange and park-and-ride to Lougheed SkyTrain station via Walnut Grove; and a second service between Walnut Grove and Surrey Central Station via Highway 1, the 156 Street interchange and Guildford. We consulted with elected officials, stakeholders and the public on this plan in 2011.
Since then, as many of your readers know, TransLink had to cut back on previous commitments due to funding challenges.
The 2013 Base Plan includes what is now the #555 Port Mann ExpressBus, connecting Carvolth exchange to Braid Station until construction is complete at Lougheed Station. As a result of funding challenges, we have had to postpone implementing that second BRT service between Walnut Grove and Surrey Central, although the #501, #509 and #590 provide local service.
We consulted with elected officials, stakeholders and the public on this plan in September and October.
As for the exchange at 156 Street, TransLink discussed that with the City of Surrey, the government of B.C. and private developers at the conceptual stage, but no agreement was reached.
When funding is available, TransLink will revisit the full plan for high-quality BRT service, including increasing off-peak frequency and implementing the second line, between Carvolth and Surrey Central Station.
Derek Zabel
TransLink Communications