Addition of a rapid line running along a north-south corridor is one of the top priorities for transit development in the region. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Alex Rawnsley

all aboard

New ‘Rapidbus’ line projected for future of transit network in Nanaimo

Dec 20, 2022 | 6:43 AM

NANAIMO — Expansion of transit services throughout the Regional District are set to somewhat centre around a new, express line connecting the city’s north and south end.

A developing memorandum of understanding between the Regional District of Nanaimo and BC Transit outlines several key goals over the next five years, ranging from service hour targets to new and modified routes.

Darren Marshall, RDN manager of transit operations, said one of the focuses is establishing what’s called a “Rapidbus” line from Woodgrove Centre to Chase River.

“The Regional District of Nanaimo transit system has a long, narrow corridor which supports a strong need to establish a rapid line, which would service north and south efficiently and quickly and feed the local bus routes.”

The plan is to model it after the current #50 bus which goes between Woodgrove Centre and downtown.

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After getting buses rolling on the new route, Marshall said they’d want to gradually increase frequency over the coming five years, then build out infrastructure needed to further support its growth.

“It will require a few more bus stops along the corridor so that it’s not exiting the corridor then coming back,” Marshall said. “It loses its design of being a true rapid line, you want to keep it on the main corridor and as efficient and frequent as possible.”

Another target for RDN Transit over the coming years is to further develop three main transit exchanges in Nanaimo: Woodgrove Centre, Country Club Centre and downtown.

While development downtown will likely come through, or be affected by, plans for The Hub along Terminal Ave., improvements are needed across the board.

The MOU allows for both sides to know where the region’s transit network is headed, affording the chance to plan and budget accordingly.

“Some of the exchanges are in need of upgrades and some need to be established” Marshall added. “The MOU with BC Transit allows us to look at the assets we’re going to need to support the transit redevelopment strategy and the expansions we’re requesting through BC Transit from the province.”

Expansion to the RDN network has been consistent in recent years.

Development of a new #70 service between Nanaimo and Duncan began in late March, while service hours are adjusted in different areas to meet changing needs.

Marshall noted the frequently asked question regarding service to Duke Point is still very much on their radar.

The RDN’s transit redevelopment strategy lays out plans for additional services in the southern portions of the RDN, including reintroducing service to Duke Point, in year three of their five-year plan.

Further details on the timeline for implementation of the plan will be known in the spring when Marshall and his team will know whether the province is funding their requested 5,000 hours of conventional service and 2,000 hours of handi-dart coverage.

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