BC Transit, in conjunction with the Victoria Regional Transit Commission, has announced a series of substantial modifications set to transform the local transit landscape, slated to take effect on Monday, January 8th, 2024.
The transportation company say the overhaul comes in response to extensive feedback from the public, with a primary focus on reintroducing and adjusting services to specific bus routes.
A key highlight includes the reinstatement of Route 11 Tillicum Centre/UVic’s original routing, catering to demands predating June 2022.
Moreover, the transit transformation extends to Route 95 Langford/Downtown RAPIDBUS, which will now extend its reach to accommodate bus stops along Goldstream Avenue at Veterans Memorial Parkway.
“This service change also includes a major restructure of the West Shore Transit Network,” said BC Transit in a media release.
BC Transit said to better align their service with “rapidly increasing development and customer demands”, changes are being made to the following routes:
- 39 Westhills/Interurban/Royal Oak/UVic
- 52 Colwood Exchange/Bear Mountain
- 54 Metchosin
- 55 Happy Valley
- 56 Thetis Heights/Langford Exchange
- 57 Thetis Heights/Langford Exchange
- 58 Goldstream Meadows
- 59 Triangle Mountain
- 60 Wishart
An integral facet of this restructure involves Route 39 Westhills/Interurban/Royal Oak/UVic now extending its service to the Royal Roads University campus, enhancing accessibility for students and faculty.
Route 52 Colwood Exchange/Bear Mountain is being rerouted to cater to the rapidly expanding neighborhoods of Happy Valley, Latoria, and Royal Bay.
However, BC Transit said it will continue to serve the Royal Roads University campus during weekday peak hours, ensuring continued convenience for students and staff.
The Thetis Heights service will see a consolidation, as routes 56 and 57 merge into a unified Route 57, providing enhanced service along McCallum Road, a move BC Tranist said isdesigned to streamline transit access for residents.
The new Route 49 Langford Exchange/Skirt Mountain, will offer service to the new developments on Skirt Mountain. Additionally, this route will maintain coverage along Setchfield Avenue and Treanor Avenue, areas previously served by Route 56, catering to the evolving needs of local communities.
For a more detailed Service Summary including a map of these changes, please click here.
