TransLink announces winter service changes

TransLink is advising transit users to be prepared as it makes what it calls one of the largest service changes on record.

The biggest change is the opening of the Evergreen Extension SkyTrain line connecting Burnaby, Port Moody and Coquitlam. The line — which adds six new SkyTrain stations — is scheduled to open on Dec. 2.

Earlier this year, the Millennium Line and Expo line routes were modified to accommodate the extension. The Millennium Line runs from VCC-Clark Station to the Evergreen Extension. The Expo Line has two routes starting at Waterfront station: one ends at Production Way-University Station and the other at King George Station.

Beginning on Dec.19, 22 bus routes in the Tri-Cities region will change for the extension including the cancellation of the 97 B-Line and 190 Vancouver/Coquitlam Station route. Changes are also coming for the 160, 188 and the 143 bus routes.

Additional changes coming downtown

TransLink is also making some changes to bus routes in the downtown Vancouver area — emerging from recommendations from a 2015 consultation.

For example, the 6 Davie/Downtown line will extend along Davie Street to provide better connections to Yaletown, Canada Line and Cambie Street.

The C21 and C23 buses in the West End will discontinue and merge into the new 23 Main Street Station/Yaletown/Beach Avenue route.

In addition, there will be reduced service for the holiday season.

Routes serving schools and post-secondary institutions will be running on a lighter schedule during the school holidays.

Christmas and Boxing Day will run on a Sunday/holiday service schedule.

A full, detailed list of service changes is on TransLink's website, and users are encouraged to use Trip Planner to plan their route.