TransLink Plans Relocation of 99 B-Line Bus Stops in Vancouver

TransLink is proposing a significant change to the 99 B-Line bus route in Metro Vancouver by relocating two bus stops that service the University Village. The proposed new locations for these stops are approximately 450 to 600 metres away from their current positions, which are already a short walk from the University of British Columbia (UBC) bus exchange. This move aims to enhance accessibility for the growing residential community in Lelem Village and improve overall transit efficiency.

The current eastbound and westbound bus stops at University Village are about 300 metres from the UBC bus exchange. TransLink is considering shifting these stops to the intersection of Shortcut Road and University Boulevard, roughly four blocks to the east. This proposed site is adjacent to the Musqueam Indian Band’s Lelem Village, which features a mix of high-rise and mid-rise residential buildings and a retail area.

The new bus stops would be located closer to the University Golf Course and would be served by existing routes including the No. 4 Powell/UBC, No. 9 Boundary/UBC, and No. 14 Hastings/UBC. The entire Lelem Village development, completed in 2022, will ultimately encompass 1,250 homes and could house up to 2,500 residents. The retail village at Lelem includes a 13,000 square foot Urban Fare grocery store and various dining options, such as Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen.

TransLink argues that the proposed relocation will not only improve access to public transit but also enhance pedestrian safety. The current bus stops near the intersection of Wesbrook Mall and University Boulevard experience high pedestrian volumes, which can create delays for both buses and general traffic. By moving the bus stops, TransLink anticipates a smoother flow of vehicles and reduced congestion at this busy intersection.

In line with its 10-year plan, TransLink is also focusing on enhancing public transit services for First Nations communities in the region. To gather feedback from the public regarding the bus stop relocation, the transit authority has launched an online survey, inviting residents to share their opinions.

The site of Lelem Village is part of a broader reconciliation agreement with the Musqueam Indian Band, which returned several parcels of land to the First Nation in 2008. Notably, the adjacent 120-acre University Golf Course will remain a golf course until at least 2083, as stipulated in the agreement. The Musqueam Indian Band owns these properties as fee-simple title private property, rather than as reserves.

In a significant development, the First Nation has also agreed to acquire the business and gaming license for the River Rock Casino Resort from Great Canadian Entertainment. This move marks another step in the Band’s efforts to expand its economic footprint.

Looking ahead, the 99 B-Line route will undergo changes starting in Fall 2027, when the Millennium Line Broadway extension is set to open. The route will be shortened to operate between UBC and the new Arbutus Station. Furthermore, there are discussions about potentially discontinuing the 99 B-Line entirely in the 2030s when a proposed SkyTrain extension to UBC becomes operational.

As of 2024, the 99 B-Line is a vital transit route, with TransLink reporting over 10.6 million annual boardings. The route averages over 34,000 boardings on weekdays, more than 21,000 on Saturdays, and over 15,000 on Sundays and holidays. These figures highlight the importance of public transit in supporting the region’s connectivity and the need for ongoing improvements to meet the demands of its users.