Highway 16 bus service begins in Northern B.C.

Jun 17, 2017 | 12:05 AM

PRINCE GEORGE, B.C. – Highway 16 bus service between Prince George and Smithers will officially begin Monday.  But BC Transit’s Highway 16 transit plan was christened today with an announcement in Burns Lake.

The service is meant to provide a safe transportation system through the region.  The action plan was developed as a result of a recommendation from the Highway of Tears symposium.

“The two new routes will better connect people and communities along the Highway 16 corridor,” said Manuel Achadinha, BC Transit President and Chief Executive Officer.   The $6.4 million action plan includes bus service but also the purchase of community vehicles, First Nations driver education, webcams and bus shelters.

“We are extremely pleased that there are more safe travel options for the north,” said Mary Teegee, Carrier Sekani Family Services Executive Director of Child and Family Services, the host agency of the Highway of Tears Initiative.  She adds, “I applaud the work of municipalities, First Nations and government to launch the new transit services. This is a good example of true partnership and effective collaboration.”

BC Transit will use Burns Lake will be as a hub for service between Prince George and Smithers.  The Smithers – Burns Lake bus will operate Monday, Wednesday and Friday. While the Burns Lake – Prince George route will operate Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The one-way fare will be $5 per segment.