The wheels of the bus go...
Public transit is the best option to complement a truly walkable community. MetroVancouver is one of the well serviced regions. Whether your destination is too far, too steep, the day is too hot or too rainy you can always take the bus and/or Skytrain.
Public transit is probably the most comfortable way to travel longer distances, especially with young kids. You might be surprised how much they love it and how well they behave. This might also be because they can travel in their beloved cozy stroller. As for you, you can sit next to them and relax, not worrying about the traffic. If they become a little bit fussy, there’s always the bear-hug or lap-time that they very much love. My (now) 2 year old and I have been traveling via the Skytrain and buses since we moved to the city and can tell you a thing or two about how convenient it has been.
Prefer the Skytrain to the bus? For all you young stroller-pushing mothers out there with doubts about boarding the bus, there are only a few simple rules to follow so that you enjoy your journey. When you arrive at the bus stop, make sure to position yourself near the boarding area. You will have priority boarding, of course after wheelchair/mobility aid users. The driver will kneel the bus (this means that it will lower down the entrance to make it closer to the curb). My little one just loves to see this!
After greeting the driver, you tap your Compass card and move toward the reserved area. The seats fold up leaving space for at least two strollers. The driver will wait until you put the breaks on your stroller. Let them know with a simple “...brakes on”.
Source: BEST
Image description: Two strollers travelling on a bus in their reserved area.
When you need to leave, let the driver know in advance so you will have priority getting off. Depending on your stroller and ability to maneuver it, you might want to back up all the way to the street, so your little one has a smoother way out.
Ah and one last thing, don’t forget to thank your driver!
For the Skytrain it is a little bit easier. Tap your Compass card, go to the elevator (most of the platforms are a level or two above/below the entrance level), and wait at the platform. Simple as A-B-C! Waiting times are usually less than 3 minutes and in no time, you can enjoy amazing views of the city. The newer trains have seat-less areas designated to give extra space for wheelchairs, strollers or bicycles, but if it is possible have a seat on the front window (that’s what I prefer). Your little one would love playing the train-driver..toot-toot!
If it works for you, plan your trip at off-peak hours where the experience is even better. Check out what precautionary measures TransLink’s taking to ensure safe transit commutes here. Always wear a mask while it’s mandatory (preferably one for your little one too) and disinfect your hands before and after boarding for that safer experience. Be safe. Enjoy transit.
Increased bus services in Surrey - TransLink
Owing to increased ridership and in line with efforts to support essential workers as we kick-start the new year, TransLink announced adding additional services in 15 bus routes in and around Surrey. Despite the steep fall in ridership last year, TransLink made efforts and had been able to maintain most services. Overall in MetroVancouver, TransLink has increased services in 27 routes. More information on TransLink’s service changes here.
COVID-19: How to safely ride transit during a pandemic?
TransLink has taken many measures to ensure safety of its riders. While promoting social distancing norms, it has also encouraged using the Compass Card (which by the way can be remotely loaded through the website or Park&Go app) supporting contactless payments.
Firstly, the basics. If you’re unwell, stay home and help keep our community safe. While on transit and waiting at platforms, please wear a mask. An added precaution is also to remain as silent as possible. This not only prevents the remote chance of transmission but also allows one to be polite to others. Physical distancing is encouraged, but might not be very effective during peak hours. Planning ahead and working towards adjusting your timings to skip the rush-hour is always helpful. That way you don’t rush and can mindfully take the transit while following all safety precautions.
TransLink is the first transit operator in North America to install and test Copper and Organosilane coated surfaces on buses. Copper alloy surfaces are naturally antimicrobial with self-sanitizing properties. Literature shows that copper alloy surfaces destroy up to 99.9% of bacteria and viruses within four hours. Organosilane is a wipe-on coating that can provide long-lasting protection against damaging microbes such as bacteria, mold, mildew and many viruses. When used in tandem with good hygiene and cleaning protocols, copper and organosilanes can help inhibit the buildup and growth of viruses and bacteria. Currently there are 2 buses and 2 SkyTrain cars featuring these installations. Learn more about it here.
TransLink (TL) has deployed Pit Crews for cleaning surfaces on transit frequently (platforms, stations and even the interiors of trains). In addition to daily schedules, buses, HandyDART vehicles are being cleaned twice a week to ensure disinfection of high touch surfaces.
Do make sure to subscribe to Transit Alerts on TL’s website or follow them on social media for regular updates about services. More information on TL’s COVID-19 precautions here.
