BC Transit expansion in Nanaimo will give more options and better service to riders

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NANAIMO – Sheila Malcolmson and George Anderson say people using transit in Nanaimo will see more transit options with increased frequency, extended hours of service along several routes.

“Expanding transit in Nanaimo gives people affordable transit options so they can get to work, school, and connect with loved ones,” said Sheila Malcolmson, MLA for Nanaimo-Gabriola Island. “Working with BC Transit and the RDN, we’re making travel easier across Nanaimo.”

To support growing ridership and improve transit services, BC Transit and the B.C. government are partnering with the Regional District of Nanaimo to add 7,000 annual service hours. This builds on the work done throughout B.C. to strengthen transit services and connect communities.

Service improvements include:

  • Increased service on Route 1 Nanaimo Rapid Line.
  • More peak time trips on Route 40 VIU Express.
  • Adjusted schedules to improve ferry connections.
  • Expanded handyDART service on weekdays, weekends and statutory holidays.

“This transit expansion is great news for Nanaimo,” says George Anderson, MLA for Nanaimo – Lantzville and Parliamentary Secretary for Transit. “These improvements mean better transit for university students, seniors, and workers, making our transit system more accessible and convenient for everyday use.”

The Ministry’s ongoing support for BC Transit ensures people outside Metro Vancouver continue to have access to the transit services they need. Since 2017, the ministry has increased the provincial operating grant to BC Transit by approximately 70 per cent supporting transit service levels across the province and continuing to implement transit expansion that will benefit people throughout B.C.