Buzzer logo

TransLink news, commentary, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Your ride on the R2 Marine Drive RapidBus is now up to 6 minutes faster

Your ride on the R2 Marine Drive RapidBus is now up to 6 minutes faster

The R2 Marine Drive RapidBus in the transit priority lane

We’re giving you time back in your day so you have more time to do things that matter the most to you.

Your ride on the R2 Marine Drive RapidBus is now up to six minutes faster during peak hours when travelling eastbound. This is thanks to an extended transit priority lane on East 3rd Street, from Queensbury Avenue to Gladstone Avenue in the City of North Vancouver.

As part of our commitment to improving bus speed and reliability across the system, TransLink partnered with the City of North Vancouver on this project to extend the lane.

R2 Marine Drive RapidBus service now provides a near-continuous dedicated eastbound bus lane from St. David’s Avenue to Phibbs Exchange.

“This extension is not just about improving today’s commute, it’s part of TransLink’s long-term plans to enhance RapidBus and lay the groundwork for Bus Rapid Transit in our region,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “The faster transit trips are, the more likely customers will choose transit over driving.

The project’s completion means a more reliable transit experience for the roughly 40,000 monthly riders on the route. Other road users, including drivers and cyclists, will also benefit from this extension, as congestion will be reduced throughout the route. Additionally, the upgraded corridor contains over 200 metres of separated bike lanes.

Mayor Linda Buchanan and TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn with the R2 Marine Drive RapidBus

“We all expect fast and reliable public transit across the community,” says City of North Vancouver Mayor Linda Buchanan. “We know there is room for improvement and are committed to enhancing services for people. That’s why we have invested in an extended transit lane from Queensbury to Gladstone Avenue. This will allow riders to save time and create operational savings that can be used to further enhance our transportation network elsewhere. This work is one more step towards our goal of being a healthy, connected, and sustainable city.”

The project’s $2.3 million investment represents the most significant funding in bus infrastructure on the North Shore since the launch of RapidBus in 2020. It is part of ongoing work to improve RapidBus service across Metro Vancouver.

TransLink will continue working with North Shore municipalities, the Government of British Columbia, and stakeholders to upgrade and extend the R2 Marine Drive RapidBus from Phibbs Exchange to Metrotown – providing a direct express connection from Park Royal. Additionally, long-term planning will be advanced through the Burrard Inlet Rapid Transit Study, which will determine the best rapid transit technology for this corridor.

Map of the project area for the R2 improvements

Co-Author
TransLink

Sorry, your website browser is no longer supported.

Upgrade to one of these browsers to visit translink.ca: