Langley Seniors Group Explores Shuttle Service Viability

A local initiative is underway in Langley, British Columbia, as the Langley Seniors in Action group seeks to determine if a shuttle bus service would be beneficial for the area’s senior population. The organization is currently conducting a survey aimed at gathering input from residents aged 55 and older, assessing interest and potential usage of a dedicated shuttle service.

Paul Crump, president of Langley Seniors in Action (LSA), stated, “We believe that there is a demand” for such a service. The proposed shuttle would operate independently of existing services offered by TransLink, which includes community shuttles and the HandyDART service, addressing what Crump describes as insufficient coverage and limited routes for seniors relying on public transportation.

The survey, which is available online, will be open for responses until January 31, 2024. It includes questions about age range, income level, vehicle ownership, and current transit usage patterns. Additionally, respondents can offer suggestions on how a shuttle system could be structured and indicate if they would be willing to participate in a pilot project.

Crump highlighted that feedback thus far has been positive. “It’s been interesting. There has been received I think fairly well in the community,” he remarked. To ensure transparency, LSA plans to publicly share the survey results, while maintaining the confidentiality of individual responses.

The research project has received funding from the New Horizons for Seniors program, which supports initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of older adults. Crump expressed confidence in LSA’s ability to secure additional funding to establish the shuttle service. The estimated annual budget for the proposed service ranges between $160,000 and $200,000, significantly lower than the approximately $600,000 budget that the neighboring city of Delta allocates for its shuttle program, which currently operates three buses with a dedicated coordinator and six drivers.

The Langley shuttle service is envisioned to be offered free of charge, similar to Delta’s model, although a nominal fee could be implemented based on practices in other regions such as North Vancouver. Crump emphasized the importance of affordability: “The point is a service for which cost is not a barrier for seniors.”

Despite rising costs associated with procuring shuttle buses, Crump noted that LSA is exploring various options and intends to engage local governments for support. The organization may establish a separate society to manage the shuttle service if it moves forward.

Community engagement is a priority for LSA. Crump encourages senior groups and residential complexes interested in learning more about the shuttle initiative to reach out for presentations. Interested parties can contact LSA via email at [email protected].

To assist in the planning process, LSA has enlisted a post-secondary graduate from Trinity Western University, who has volunteered to support the initiative. The group also holds monthly meetings open to seniors, caregivers, and organizations that serve older adults. These meetings take place on the third Wednesday of each month from 10:00 to noon at the Langley Senior Resources Society located at 20605 51B Avenue.

The outcome of this survey and subsequent actions could significantly shape transportation options for seniors in Langley, ensuring they have access to essential services and opportunities in their community. For further information, visit www.langleyseniorsinaction.ca.