TransLink is announcing where it will build stations for the coming Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route from Maple Ridge to Langley.
The transit authority is also doing public engagement for what it hails as the next step in implementing the incoming BRT system. It is intended to provide faster, more frequent, and more reliable service through dedicated bus lanes, signal priority at intersections, and weather-protected stations.
There is currently no funding for the project. Once dollars are in place, it will take an estimated five years to build.
TransLink announced BRT stations at Haney Place Mall, 216th, Laity, 207th and 203rd Streets in Maple Ridge, and 13 stations in total on the route.
“Securing this BRT line is a key milestone in the city’s Maple Ridge Moves plan, which focuses on driving growth and improving our transportation network," said Mayor Dan Ruimy. "This project is a significant achievement for Maple Ridge, one that we’ve championed from the start, as it strengthens both local and regional connectivity across Metro Vancouver.
He said BRT will provide improved access once the Surrey-Langley SkyTrain extension is complete, while offering people more affordable and reliable transportation options.
"As a city, we are deeply committed to improving transit in our community through this transformative BRT project, which will enhance accessibility, ease congestion, and promote sustainable transportation solutions for everyone," said Ruimy.
This step forward will be good news to developers along the Lougheed Highway in Maple Ridge, who have urged the city and TransLink to get on with the planning, so they know where they can build on their properties. Developers were at council on Dec. 10 complaining that 3,000 apartment units are in limbo, and their mounting carrying costs amount to millions monthly during the delays.
READ ALSO: Thousands of Maple Ridge Apartments in limbo since BRT announced
City hall announced Friday that a pause on development along the Lougheed corridor is being lifted. Starting Jan. 23, the city will resume processing development applications, allowing transit-oriented growth and higher-density housing.
Langley-Haney Place BRT will establish a 22 km connection, and during peak hours service will operate every 10 minutes. It will be a direct connection between Willowbrook and Haney Place malls, reducing transit travel time by more than 40 per cent to about 40 minutes. Key destinations on this route include Willowbrook Shopping Centre, Langley Events Centre, Ridge Meadows Hospital, and Haney Place Mall.
“The Langley–Haney Place Bus Rapid Transit line is one of the best corridors to get going on right away, with so much growth, available right-of-way, and strong municipal support from the Township of Langley and Maple Ridge," said Langley Township Mayor Eric Woodward.
Langley-Haney Place BRT will also connect to the future Surrey-Langley SkyTrain at Willowbrook station, the R3 Lougheed RapidBus, and Carvolth Exchange and Park and Ride.
Members of the public can learn more and participate in the engagement survey online before Feb. 9. They can also attend in-person open houses, with one at the Maple Ridge Library on Jan. 28, from 3:30 to 7:30 p.m.
