The provincial government is launching a new, long-haul northern bus service to fill the gap left behind by the Greyhound closure.

Premier John Horgan hopes that this new program will allow residents living up North to have access to safe and affordable travel.

The new service, called B.C. Bus North, will begin service on June 4, 2018, which is just days after the Greyhound discontinues major northern bus routes on June 1.

Photo Credit: Screen Grab B.C. Bus North

“People in the North rely on transportation for their livelihoods, to access the health and education services they need, and to visit family and friends,” said Premier Horgan.

“In the face of Greyhound’s decision, our job is to make sure northern communities and the people who live there are able to stay connected through safe, reliable and affordable public transportation.”

Service will include two round-trips per week between Prince Rupert and Prince George, Prince George and Valemount, and Prince George to Dawson Creek/Fort St. John. 

One round-trip per week will also be offered from Fort Nelson to Dawson Creek/Fort St. John.

“BC Bus North will help make sure that people in the North, especially those in rural and remote communities, don’t feel stranded and isolated,” said Claire Trevena, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure.

“Once the service is up and running, we’re going to take the next step by working with northern communities to find a long-term solution that delivers a sustainable, affordable solution for these communities.”

Photo Credit: B.C. Government

B.C. Bus North aims to have fares between $35 and $45, per route, depending on how far people travel.

All buses will be operated by Pacific Western Transportation and will include luggage and washroom facilities.

“We’re looking forward to delivering a long-haul service for the first time to connect people and communities in northern B.C.,” said Erinn Pinkerton, interim president and CEO, BC Transit.

“Our team has been working hard to find ways to make this interim solution meet the needs of customers in the North.”

The province will fund B.C. Bus North for 12 months, during which time the government will work with local leaders to evaluate the demand for the service.

The goal is to develop a long-term transportation solution that works for the province and those living up north.

Visit the B.C. Bus North website to view all route schedules.