Later SkyTrain service on weekend nights studied
TransLink has announced that it will study the feasibility of running SkyTrain service later on Friday and Saturday nights.
The move comes in response to numerous requests for late-night weekend service from the public, municipal leaders, police and others in the community.
Results of the study should be ready for review in mid-2018.
The study will include researching how other transit systems handle late-night service, studying how necessary maintenance can still be completed, examining potential costs and other tradeoffs, and conducting community consultation.
Currently, the last trains leave downtown Vancouver between 1 and 1:30 a.m.
Vivienne King, president and general manager of the B.C. Rapid Transit Company, said they’re in the process of finalizing the scope and hoping to get that done in the next few weeks.
“We have to look at all the options,” she said.
It has always been technically possible to operate SkyTrain later at night, said CEO Kevin Desmond, but the concern was how it would affect maintenance activities.
The rail company has a maximum of 1,500 hours available each year to complete required maintenance, capital work and emergency repairs on 80 kilometres of rail.
“We are committed to operating a system that is safe and reliable,” he said. “We want to find out if we can keep that commitment while offering another option for customers who travel late at night.”
At least two mayors were pleased with TransLink’s decision.
Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson said it’s often difficult for people visiting or working in downtown Vancouver late at night to find a safe, affordable way home.
“I’m looking forward to seeing the results of this review so we can make informed decisions on how TransLink can improve late-night transit service,” he said.
Richard Stewart, mayor of Coquitlam, said, “If extending SkyTrain hours on the weekend is possible, I would support it.”