TransLink is launching a new on-demand transit service for Bowen Island residents and tourists.
Instead of having to follow set timetables, anyone on the island will be able to use a mobile app called ‘TapRide’ to book local bus services. There will also be an online and phone-in booking system established.
This pilot project will enable customers to set their own pick-up and drop-off locations on Bowen Island. It will also help them view journey times and arrival estimates and track-on demand bus locations in real-time.
The pilot will run from July 15, 2019 until September 15, 2019 with two TransLink on-demand shuttles. It will operate between:
- 4:30pm and 9:30pm on weekdays (fixed pick-up at Snug Cove ferry terminal)
- 10:00am and 5:30pm on weekends (floating pick-up and drop-off)
The on-demand services are in addition to existing bus routes on Bowen Island, which remain unchanged.
“We’d like to see as many people as possible take part in this pilot in order to learn which aspects of transit on-demand work well, and importantly, uncover any elements which need improving,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond.
Anyone using this will also be entered into a draw to win a $200 gift certificate to Tuscany Restaurant on Bowen Island.
TransLink will use the data and feedback received during the pilot to help refine the transit on-demand model. If successful, it could also be adapted for use in other parts of Metro Vancouver, the agency said.
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