A Closer Look at the Proposed Metrotown–North Shore Shore Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)
For many people living on the North Shore, commuting into Vancouver or Burnaby can be a daily challenge. A new transit project, the Metrotown–North Shore Bus Rapid Transit (BRT), is being proposed to help ease that pressure and provide a faster, more reliable way to get around.
BRT is a bus-based rapid transit system designed to move people efficiently. With dedicated bus lanes, signal priority at intersections, and weather-protected stations, it aims to offer smoother, more comfortable trips compared to conventional bus service.
What the Proposed BRT Could Offer
If approved, the Metrotown–North Shore BRT would span 21 km with 16–17 stations (depending on the final route). Highlights include:
- Frequent service: buses every 5 minutes at peak times.
- Capacity for growth: space for up to 60,000 daily riders by 2035.
- Regional connections: easy links to the SeaBus, SkyTrain Expo and Millennium Lines, and the R5 Hastings RapidBus.
- Key destinations served: Park Royal, Lonsdale Quay, Phibbs Exchange, Brentwood Town Centre, BCIT, and Metrotown.
For North Shore residents, this could mean more consistent travel times and an alternative to driving during peak hours.
What This Could Mean for the North Shore
While it’s still in the planning stages, projects like this can have ripple effects on communities:
- Improved accessibility may make certain neighbourhoods more appealing to buyers and renters.
- Shorter travel times to schools, job centres, and shopping areas could enhance day-to-day convenience.
- Potential property impacts: homes near future stations may draw more interest, similar to what has happened around existing SkyTrain lines.
It’s too early to say exactly how this project might shape the North Shore, but it’s worth watching as planning progresses.
Two Route Options Under Consideration
TransLink is currently seeking input on which route should connect Kootenay Loop to Brentwood Town Centre:
- Hastings St / Willingdon Ave – a more direct link to Burnaby Heights.
- Boundary Rd / Lougheed Hwy – a more direct link to Gilmore SkyTrain Station.
Your feedback will play a role in shaping the decision.
Share Your Feedback
TransLink is inviting public input on the Metrotown–North Shore BRT until Sunday, September 21.
If you live on the North Shore, this is an opportunity to weigh in on a project that could influence how we move around the region in the years ahead.