Residents in the district of Hope have another transportation option with the introduction of transit services starting Tuesday, September 5. The route 22 Hope service will connect Hope to the already growing transit system in the Agassiz and Chilliwack area.
“Our government is committed to investing in transit — it makes services accessible and life more affordable for British Columbians," said Claire Trevena, minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “We anticipate the inclusion of CCTV cameras on these buses will improve the safety of everyone on board.”
The new service will operate from Monday to Saturday and have four round trips each day. A single trip costs $2.50, or a DayPASS is available for $5. Passengers can also purchase a sheet of 10 tickets for $22.50, or a monthly pass for $44 (adults) or $35 (students/seniors).
“The FVRD is pleased that this new transit service will serve the needs of residents in Hope, Kent, and Chilliwack,” said FVRD Chair Jason Lum. “This summer, air quality is something that has really been at the forefront of everyone’s minds, and reducing vehicle emissions and taking transit is one way we can all work toward the goal of minimizing air pollution and reducing greenhouse gases.”
“This new service will be well used by the citizens of Hope and surrounding area,” said district of Hope Mayor Wilfried Vicktor. “It recognizes the key role Hope plays at the eastern edge of the Fraser Valley and this service will be adjusted over time to meet changing needs.”
To provide the service in the District of Hope, two new 30-foot BC Transit Vicinity buses have arrived in the community. The new buses are made by Grande West Transportation International Ltd., based in Aldergrove, British Columbia.
Each Vicinity bus can seat 24 passengers, with standing room for another 20 people. There is also space for two mobility aids. The buses are equipped with two doors for more efficient operation and easier access on and off the bus.
The new buses also have active closed circuit television (CCTV) cameras to improve the safety of customers and drivers. Cameras have been installed on buses in Kamloops, Kelowna, Nanaimo, Chilliwack, Whistler, Dawson Creek, Quesnel, Penticton, Nelson, Vernon, and Victoria.
“The new buses will help us connect people and communities in Hope and the surrounding area,” said Erinn Pinkerton, BC Transit vice president of business development. “Introducing this new service will help us provide an effective and efficient transportation towards a more sustainable future."
