Metro Vancouver residents may soon have a more convenient and sustainable way to reach some of the region's most beloved outdoor destinations. TransLink, the regional transit authority, has announced a proposal to introduce four new seasonal summer bus routes designed to connect transit users directly to popular parks that have historically struggled with traffic and parking overflow.
Proposed Routes and Schedules
The initiative targets four specific green spaces across the Lower Mainland: Belcarra Regional Park in Port Moody, Campbell Valley Regional Park in Langley, Centennial Beach in Delta, and Golden Ears Provincial Park in Maple Ridge. The proposed services would operate on weekends and holidays throughout the summer months.
The detailed proposals for each route are as follows:
Belcarra Regional Park: TransLink plans to extend the existing 181 bus route to Belcarra. Service would run every 30 minutes on Saturdays from 7:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 8:30 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.
Campbell Valley Regional Park: A brand-new route would run from Langley Centre to the park. It would operate hourly on Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Sundays and holidays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Centennial Beach: A new route would connect the South Delta Exchange to Centennial Beach, with buses arriving every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Golden Ears Provincial Park: Another new route would begin at Haney Place and travel to Alouette Lake and Golden Ears Provincial Park. Service is proposed for every 30 minutes from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
Addressing Pandemic-Era Parking Problems
The push for new transit options stems directly from challenges that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. As residents sought safe outdoor activities, regional parks experienced unprecedented crowds, leading to significant traffic jams and overwhelmed parking lots.
In response, parks like Belcarra implemented measures such as increased bylaw enforcement and seasonal pay parking. At Belcarra, for example, paid parking is in effect from April 1 to September 30, costing $3.25 per hour up to a daily maximum of $18.50. The new bus routes aim to provide a viable alternative to driving, potentially alleviating these congestion issues.
Timeline and Public Consultation
If approved, TransLink aims to launch the routes to Belcarra, Campbell Valley, and Golden Ears as early as the summer of 2026. The Centennial Beach route is tentatively scheduled for summer 2027, pending the completion of parking lot renovations at that location.
TransLink is now actively seeking public input on the proposals. Residents who wish to share their feedback are encouraged to complete an online survey available at translink.ca/newserviceareas. The consultation period is open until December 19.
This move represents a strategic effort to enhance sustainable transportation options for recreational travel, offering a solution to seasonal congestion while improving access to Metro Vancouver's natural attractions for all residents.
