Ever wondered about the story behind those distinctive blue buses cruising through West Vancouver? These are the West Vancouver Blue Buses. This isn’t just any transit system. It’s a piece of North American history rolling down the streets.
Founded in 1914, West Vancouver Blue Bus is one of the oldest continuously running municipal transit systems on the continent. Think about that for a moment. While other cities were just getting started with public transit, West Vancouver was already forging ahead.
Initially, the West Vancouver Blue Bus was known as West Vancouver Municipal Transit. It began long before the Lions Gate Bridge connected the North Shore to Vancouver. Ferries were the primary mode of transport across Burrard Inlet. In 1916, the District of West Vancouver purchased its first bus. It was a converted 1911 Pierce Arrow touring car. Imagine riding in that converted touring car.
The fleet expanded gradually. By 1927, West Vancouver acquired its first purpose-built bus. It was a 23-passenger Yellow Coach from General Motors. This bus mainly served the Upper Levels route.
The completion of the Lions Gate Bridge in 1938 changed everything. Bus service extended into Downtown Vancouver. Ferry service continued until 1948. Before route numbers, buses had names like West Bay and British Properties.
In 1974, a significant change occurred. Transfers became interchangeable between West Vancouver buses and Greater Vancouver BC Hydro buses. This allowed for fare integration, streamlining travel.
In 1979, West Vancouver Municipal Transit joined the Urban Transit Authority’s Greater Vancouver Transit System. Later it was renamed BC Transit. West Vancouver Blue Buses maintained their distinctive blue livery. They also had a unique size. These buses were narrower than others in the region. This was due to West Vancouver’s winding roads.
The 1980s saw rear doors retrofitted on most buses. By the 1990s, West Vancouver Transit had the first fully accessible bus fleet in Canada.
In 1999, all West Vancouver Blue Bus units got bike racks. In 2002, West Vancouver Blue Bus received its first articulated buses. These buses served the 257 Express route.
Today, the West Vancouver Blue Bus operates 12 routes. These routes serve West Vancouver, North Vancouver, Vancouver, and Lions Bay. All active buses are owned by TransLink. Yet, the Blue Bus retains its identity.
Next time you see a West Vancouver Blue Bus, remember its long and fascinating history. It is more than just a bus. It is a rolling piece of West Vancouver’s story.