RapidBus service expansion speeds up Westside commute

WEST KELOWNA – Faster service, new modern stations and the latest transit technology will make taking the bus more comfortable and reliable for RapidBus BC passengers. The RapidBus BC service connecting West Kelowna, Westbank First Nation and Kelowna with the University of BC Okanagan (UBCO) is now in service. The $46 million Kelowna RapidBus BC project is the backbone of a sustainable, efficient transportation network for the region.

The 15-kilometre route represents the second phase of the RapidBus project and includes four new transit stations and four new exchanges designed to provide passengers with faster, more frequent public transportation, supporting bus service every 15 minutes during peak periods.

When completed the Kelowna RapidBus BC project will provide 30 kilometres of transit service with new signal communications technology that enables transit operators to extend green lights at intersections to allow them priority movement with minimal stops. Digital screens will provide schedule information at all RapidBus stations and buses will include visual and audio next stop announcements. Once finished, Kelowna RapidBus project will have created more than 240 jobs, spurred economic development in communities and will improve transportation options for families.

The Government of Canada contributed up to $10.9 million from the Major Infrastructure Component of the Building Canada Fund and $6 million from the federal Gas Tax Fund. The Government of British Columbia has provided $23.9 million; the City of Kelowna committed $5.2 million and West Kelowna contributed land.