Newton Bus Ridership Surges Following R6 RapidBus Launch

TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn announced a remarkable increase in bus ridership in Newton, British Columbia, following the launch of the R6 RapidBus service in January 2024. At a luncheon on October 2, Quinn will outline future transit plans, emphasizing the surge in demand for public transportation in the region.

During his address at the State of Newton event, hosted by the Newton Business Improvement Association (BIA), Quinn will discuss the significant growth in ridership, which has more than doubled in the past year, from approximately 16,000 to around 35,000 daily users. The R6 RapidBus now connects Scott Road SkyTrain Station with Newton Exchange, facilitating greater access for residents.

Quinn highlighted the importance of improving transit services in Newton, noting, “It’s the fastest growing area for transit demand that we’re seeing.” The area has witnessed a notable influx of newcomers and families utilizing public transport on a daily basis. He added that the new R6 RapidBus service has been a key driver of this increase.

The R1 RapidBus, which operates between Newton Exchange and Guildford, is one of six RapidBus lines in the region. Philip Aguirre, executive director of the Newton BIA, remarked, “The addition of the two RapidBus lines has made a meaningful and impactful contribution to the Newton community.” Improved transit connectivity not only aids in the movement of people but also supports local businesses.

With a population exceeding 160,000, Newton is the most populated district in Surrey. Aguirre pointed out that it is home to three of the ten most overcrowded routes in the region, underscoring the urgent need for continued investment in transit infrastructure. He stated, “These numbers highlight the urgency — and the opportunity — to continue investing in transit infrastructure that meets the needs of our growing community.”

In August, TransLink committed to a “massive increase” in bus services across Metro Vancouver, with a focus on alleviating overcrowding on key routes, including changes to services on the 321, 335, and 393 buses that serve Newton. Quinn explained, “We’re putting more buses on more than two dozen routes across Surrey, including several in Newton, as well as some brand-new bus routes that will roll out over the next 12 to 18 months.”

Recent upgrades at Newton Exchange include larger buses and fewer stops, enhancing the efficiency of the RapidBus service. Looking ahead, TransLink plans to develop Bus Rapid Transit on King George Boulevard and two other priority corridors: Langley-Haney Place and Metrotown-North Shore. Quinn emphasized that these improvements are expected to deliver service that is approximately 40 percent faster than current offerings, with higher frequencies and dedicated lanes.

To address overcrowding effectively, Quinn announced that frequencies will be increased on many routes. For example, a bus that previously came every ten minutes will now arrive every six minutes. Additionally, the service hours will be expanded, extending routes that previously ended at 22:00 to operate until midnight.

Quinn, who has served as CEO of TransLink since May 2021, is responsible for overseeing the planning, finance, and management of transit services in Metro Vancouver, including cycling and walking infrastructure, as well as five bridges and the Major Road Network. His keynote address is scheduled for 13:25 on October 2 at the Bombay Banquet Hall, located at 7475 135 St. Tickets and additional information are available at the Newton BIA website.