Transport Action B.C. is calling on the provincial government to create a Vancouver Island Transit Authority to provide public transportation services across Vancouver Island. The current system with BC Transit providing some services and regional districts, with limited resources and jurisdictions, trying to cobble together linkages does not serve the public. The lengthy debate over the future of the former E&N rail line further clouds transportation options on Vancouver Island.
The need for increased travel options is there – vehicle congestion, population growth, an aging population, individuals without access to an automobile, reducing GHG emissions, and highway carnage.
Trying to solve transportation issues and traffic congestion with costly and, eventually, even more congested highway expansions has been shown to not work.
There is a need for an organisation that will plan, co-ordinate, support and monitor a Vancouver Island transportation system, using all relevant modes to their best use, to serve all residents.
A letter to the Minister of Transportation and Transit, The Honourable Mike Farnworth, has been sent and we await his response.
