Metro Vancouver transit facing ‘drastic cuts,’ mayors say

Vancouverisawesome.com

TransLink is facing a $600-million structural deficit that means Lower Mainland bus service could be cut after 8 p.m. and SkyTrain service could be rolled back by 30 per cent.

Metro Vancouver mayors gathered at the annual general meeting of the Union of B.C. Municipalities in Vancouver said the region’s transit system is in trouble and needs funding commitments from the province before cuts begin to impact communities and the economy.

“Metro Vancouver’s transit system is under threat due to a lack of funding,” said Port Coquitlam Mayor Brad West Sept. 17 as the region’s mayors and other transit advocates stood behind him. …

“Every political party needs to recognize that if we want a healthy, livable and more affordable region, we need to invest in transit,” said Richmond Mayor Malcolm Brodie, vice-chair of the mayors’ council.

“We cannot afford cuts to service, more overcrowded buses, more delays and more congested roads. The public understands this. Now, it’s time for the parties to listen.” …

Read Full Story