As Metro Vancouver residents prepare to vote in the October 19 provincial election, it’s crucial to understand where each party stands on securing funding for our region’s transit system. With more than 400,000 people relying on transit every day, this essential service needs to be maintained and expanded to meet the needs of our rapidly growing population. Investments in transit support affordability, economic growth and climate action and help to limit traffic congestion on our roads.
The Mayors’ Council sent an open letter to the main parties running in this election – the BC NDP, BC Green Party, and Conservative Party of BC – asking them to commit to fixing TransLink’s broken funding model and supporting the projects outlined in our Access for Everyone plan via four questions.
This online Voters’ Guide includes the parties’ responses to four key questions posed by the Mayors’ Council as well as the transit and transportation commitments made in their respective platforms. See the end of this guide for a link to the parties’ complete responses.
Support for investing in public transit?
Do you agree that public transit is an essential service in B.C.’s urban regions, that all levels of government must continue to invest in, so we can keep people and goods moving, improve affordability, unlock new housing, and reduce GHGs?
BC NDP
Very supportive of investing in public transit.
- “Public transit is a critical part of the BC NDP’s plan for an affordable and connected province. It will be necessary in the coming years to facilitate more use of public and active transit, and we can achieve this by ensuring it’s affordable, convenient, and reliable.”
- “Continue expanding and strengthening transit service by working with TransLink and the Mayors' Council on the Access for Everyone plan to ensure service continues to be there for people.”
BC Green Party
Very supportive of investing in public transit.
- “The BC Greens believe that everyone should be able to get to where they need to go— safely, efficiently, reliably and affordably. The way we choose to travel shapes our province, our cities and our daily lives. Offering people more options for transportation benefits the economy, supports the environment and improves public health.”
Conservative Party of BC
Very supportive of investing in public transit.
- The party “recognizes the critical role that public transit plays in supporting economic growth, reducing congestion, and enhancing quality of life in Metro Vancouver.” As the region continues to grow at a record pace, ensuring that our transit infrastructure keeps up with this growth is essential for maintaining mobility and access to essential services for all British Columbians.”
Support for Access for Everyone Plan
Do you support beginning to build the Access for Everyone Plan starting in 2025?
BC NDP
Committed to working with the Mayors’ Council to implement Access for Everyone (AFE) Plan:
- “We will partner with the Mayors’ Council on addressing current and future service expansion opportunities to meet increases in population and transit demand.”
- “Continue expanding and strengthening transit service by working with TransLink and the Mayors' Council on the Access for Everyone plan to ensure service continues to be there for people.”
- Specific platform commitments to AFE projects:
- Build 3 BRTs
- “Build towards” SkyTrain or light rail to North Shore
- Skytrain to UBC
- Commuter transit connections to the Fraser Valley and Sea to Sky
- Other transit and transportation commitments:
- Free off-peak fares for seniors
- Bring BC’s HandyDART service into government.
BC Green Party
Committed to working with the Mayors’ Council to implement Access for Everyone (AFE) Plan:
- “We made use of the Access for Everyone Plan as a supporting document in developing our platform and have referenced it in our internal policy paper for transit as well as in our replies to several election campaign surveys sent out to special interest groups.”
- Specific platform commitments to AFE projects:
- “We will double the number of buses within three years, and triple within six.”
- Other transit and transportation commitments not in AFE plan:
- We will implement a free public transit system for all people in British Columbia.
- “We will ensure at least hourly service for key routes and at least four services per day on all other routes.”
- “We will require the Government to spend at least as much on public transit, walking, and cycling as on highway infrastructure and operations.”
Conservative Party of BC
Supportive of delivering “key projects” in Transport 2050, but no clear commitment to entire AFE Plan.
- Specific platform commitments to AFE projects:
- “Fund key projects in the Transport 2050 plan, working with municipal leaders and TransLink to identify the highest-priority projects which may include expansions of SkyTrain, Bus Rapid Transit, Rapid Bus, and express and local bus services”
- “Work with TransLink and the City of Surrey to address the longstanding issues and service deficits”
- Commuter transit connections to the Fraser Valley and Sea to Sky
- “Expand HandyDART services to areas of greatest need, and strictly enforce quality standards for contractors providing the service.”
- Improve safety on transit
- Other transit and transportation commitments not in AFE plan:
- Extend SkyTrain to Newton
- Expand and rebuild Hwy 1
- Expand the new Pattullo Bridge to six lanes as soon as possible
- Replace Ironworkers Memorial Bridge
- Never implement road or bridge tolls.
Support for a new $3.4 billion Access for Everyone Fund
Will your government create a new, long-term $3.4 billion Access for Everyone Fund that identifies $500 million annually in new operating revenues for TransLink and invests $2.9 billion annually, on average – including from federal funding programs like the Canada Public Transit Fund – towards the new capital projects in the Access for Everyone Plan?
BC NDP
Committed to maintaining transit service and delivering Access for Everyone Plan but does not commit to creating a new Fund:
- “Public transit is a critical part of the BC NDP’s plan for an affordable and connected province. It will be necessary in the coming years to facilitate more use of public and active transit, and we can achieve this by ensuring it’s affordable, convenient, and reliable.”
- “Transportation projects don’t get off the ground without a sound strategy and realistic funding. Raising fares and implementing tolls will not bring in the funding we need to build and maintain a high-quality transportation system.”
BC Green Party
Committed to provide immediate funding for TransLink to maintain and expand service, but costing provisions are not sufficient:
- “The BC Greens will provide immediate funding for TransLink to maintain and expand service levels in 2025, and allocate funds to address existing public transit infrastructure and operational needs across the region.”
- “…over $1 billion in additional transport spending per year, including $600 million for TransLink funding in 2025, $745 million to replace current fare revenue and make public transit free, and an additional $600 million to increase bus routes and numbers.”
Conservative Party of BC
Very supportive of addressing structural deficit and reforming the transit funding model to support transit expansion, but does not commit to creating a new Fund:
- “We agree that the current funding model for TransLink is outdated and unsustainable… we will fully fund TransLink for the next two years while conducting a comprehensive audit of its financial model. This approach will ensure uninterrupted transit services while developing a long-term solution that provides financial stability without placing undue burden on taxpayers.”
- “We understand the urgency behind your call to prevent drastic cuts to transit services, and we share your concern about the potential impact these cuts would have on essential workers, traffic congestion, and greenhouse gas emissions. That’s why our commitment to fully fund TransLink through 2026 will protect transit riders and workers from the worst-case scenario outlined in your letter.”
- “Our approach is clear - our party will audit the funding model of TransLink to identify the best way to secure long-term and reliable funding for both existing and future services. This will be done without imposing new taxes or tolls on already struggling British Columbians. Instead, we will focus on efficiency in spending, leveraging provincial resources effectively, and ensuring that public funds go towards projects that deliver maximum benefit for commuters and the economy.”
Support for reviewing TransLink governance model?
Do you support working with the Mayors’ Council to review and improve the TransLink governance model to ensure that elected regional mayors are accountable to the public for decision-making at the agency commensurate with its growing responsibilities and revenues.
BC NDP
No specific commitment on governance.
- “We’ll do what it takes to future-proof our transportation system.”
BC Green Party
Very supportive of reviewing governance model:
- “The BC Greens plan to review the funding and governance model for transport across the province will include consideration of accountability and oversight.”
Conservative Party of BC
No commitment or comments
For full responses, please see here:
Read the full party platforms here:
For the full Letter to Party Leaders Questionnaire:
Hear what leaders in the community have to say about public transit in this provincial election
Alma Mater Society (AMS) of the University of British Columbia (UBC) Vancouver
“The AMS of UBC Vancouver fully supports the Access for Everyone Plan, which highlights the critical need for extending SkyTrain to UBC and building a more robust transit network across the Metro Vancouver region. Transit is a critical service that more than 53% of students at UBC rely on. A growing transit network will increase access to education and affordable housing options for students, and encourage economic growth and prosperity throughout the region.”
Ayesha Irfan | VP External Affairs, Alma Mater Society of UBC Vancouver
Ashdale Gallery
“As the owner of an art gallery, we draw attention from audiences from all over the lower mainland. Our business depends on progressive and diverse transit options. After spending decades traveling the world and across Canada, the common thread I have found with cities whose businesses thrive are based on strong opportunities for getting around. I am so proud to own a business in the city of North Vancouver, which I believe does an excellent job of prioritizing our needs to be a unique, desirable, and thriving community. In order to ensure this continues as we grow, it is the ability to move to and from with ease that will mostly impact our opportunities to be the rare mountain city(ies) gems we are.”
Jessica Arbour | Owner, Ashdale Gallery
Capilano Students’ Union
“Parking lots at Capilano University are overflowing because students don’t have enough viable public transit options to get to campus. More needs to be done to support students with reliable and accessible transportation, ensuring they can focus on their education without the worry of how to get there. It’s time for greater transit funding on the North Shore, not less – students deserve better.”
Angad Brar | President, Capilano Students’ Union
Capilano University
“For many of our students, reliable public transit is the only way they can access education. Without it, their opportunities shrink, and our community loses the talent and innovation they bring. Service cuts would create significant barriers and disrupt many lives. We need provincial leaders to recognize that investing in transit is an investment in the future of our students, our workforce, and our region.”
Paul Dangerfield | President and Vice-Chancellor, Capilano University
Council of Senior Citizens' Organizations of BC (COSCO)
“Seniors across B.C. rely on public transit to stay connected with their communities, access healthcare, and maintain independence. Cutting these services would isolate countless individuals and put them at risk of losing the freedom that transit provides. Expanding and protecting transit is not just a transportation issue – it’s a matter of dignity and inclusion for our aging population.”
Leslie Gaudette | President and CEO, COSCO
Delta Chamber of Commerce
“As Delta expands, our transit network must adapt to the needs of residents and businesses. Investing in better transit infrastructure is essential to reduce congestion, promote environmental sustainability, and ensure our community remains connected, competitive, and sustainable.”
Rosanne Horner | Chair, Delta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
“Every minute spent stuck in traffic is a minute we aren’t supporting local businesses, volunteering in our communities, or building the next great company. Addressing congestion is essential to maintaining our status as a top global destination and ensuring Vancouver remains a vibrant, livable city. We cannot afford drastic cuts to our transit system, as they would have severe consequences for businesses, our economy, and our people. Instead, we must find sustainable solutions to grow our transit system in line with the needs of our expanding region.”
Bridgitte Anderson | ICD.D, President and CEO, Greater Vancouver Board of Trade
HUB Cycling
“In addition to meeting the diverse needs of our communities, accessible and reliable transit is key to achieving British Columbia’s CleanBC goals. We can reduce congestion and greenhouse gas emissions by ensuring everyone has viable options to walk, bike, roll or take transit. Expanding safe and connected active transportation networks alongside transit services is essential for providing alternatives to personal vehicles and fostering a healthier, more sustainable future for all British Columbians.”
Laura Jane | Executive Director, HUB Cycling
Langley Chamber of Commerce
“Transit service is critical to our economy and our business community as it helps get workers to jobs, students to school, and customers to shops and services. But right now, it’s at risk. We must see the investment that is required to ensure that transit service isn’t just maintained but is expanded to better serve people right across Metro Vancouver, including in Langley, which is our region’s fastest-growing community.”
Cory Redekop | Chief Executive Officer, Langley Chamber of Commerce
Lower Lonsdale BIA
“Reliable public transit is the backbone of thriving local economies, and here on the North Shore, it’s essential for our businesses and employees alike. Without it, we risk isolating our community, making it harder for workers to reach their jobs and for customers to access the businesses they love. Transit cuts would have a ripple effect, slowing down our economic growth and putting even more pressure on the ability of local businesses to sustain themselves. It’s time for provincial leaders to recognize the unique needs of our community and secure the future of public transit for the North Shore.”
Jon Bevan | Executive Director, Lower Lonsdale BIA
Multi-lingual Orientation Service Association for Immigrant Communities (MOSAIC) BC
“As our region grows, reliable public transit is vital to ensuring newcomers and underserved communities have access to jobs, education, and services. The prospect of drastic cuts to these services is alarming and would have far-reaching consequences, deepening the barriers for those already struggling to find opportunities to thrive. We need to prioritize transit investment to ensure no one is left behind.”
Olga Stachova | CEO, MOSAIC BC
North Shore Community Resources
“Investing in public transit for the North Shore is a triple win for our communities. Not only will it address climate change, but better transportation options have major beneficial economic and social impacts for people and business. We know how important this investment will be for the people we serve at North Shore Community Resources. Public transit is a lifeline for them in many ways.”
Murray Mollard | Executive Director, North Shore Community Resources
North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce
“Rapid transit investment is critical to the future of our regions’ economy. Getting the best employees to their best jobs efficiently and predictably through rapid transit is an investment for generations.”
Patrick Stafford-Smith | President and CEO, North Vancouver Chamber of Commerce
Richmond Chamber of Commerce
“We cannot have transit reduced and have another notch yet against our economic competitiveness. Lack of transit already inhibits the ability of employers to attract and retain talent. The alternative of having increased vehicle congestion and the immediate need to build additional road infrastructure to address transportation shortfalls is not a sustainable and viable economic option.”
Jason Tse | Chair, Richmond Chamber of Commerce
S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
“Providing essential public transportation services that support the region’s economic, social, and environmental well-being is crucial. This accessibility is not only vital for the local economy, but also ensures inclusivity that everyone can have the opportunity to participate fully in society. Service cuts could disproportionately affect vulnerable populations who rely heavily on public transit.”
Queenie Choo | CEO, S.U.C.C.E.S.S.
Simon Fraser University
“SFU is grateful to the Mayors’ Council for their support of the Burnaby Mountain Gondola, which will take transit riders from the Production Way Millennium Line Station up to SFU’s Burnaby campus. The gondola is a low-cost, quick-build investment that will reduce cost pressures for TransLink and enable greater access to housing options on Burnaby Mountain. Transit is critical to all of us who call the lower mainland home, and our ability to meet our full potential relies on a robust transit system.”
Simon Fraser University
Surrey Board of Trade
“The Surrey Board of Trade fully supports the call for expanded transit services. Our local businesses are intricately linked to the vitality of our region, and a well-functioning public transit system is critical for their success. The Access for Everyone plan is not just about improving convenience for residents; it’s an economic imperative. With our population growth and the resurgence of post-pandemic transit ridership, businesses are already feeling the strain of frozen service levels.”
Jasroop Gosal | Policy and Research Manager and Interim Spokesperson, Surrey Board of Trade
Vancouver Coastal Health
“A strong public transit system has multiple benefits for public health, including improved air quality, climate change mitigation, increased physical activity, and equitable access to important destinations such as healthcare, work and recreation.”
Patricia Daly | MD, FRCPC, Vice-President, Public Health & Chief Medical Health Officer, Vancouver Coastal Health