Editor:
I have reviewed the TransLink proposal – two options – for the South Surrey/White Rock area (‘Crummy’ TransLink service derided, Oct. 9).
The failings in the TransLink proposal are as follows:
• Additional transfers and longer commutes for most.
• The proposed route for the 354 in Option 2 will increase the southeast White Rock commuters’ travel time significantly.
• The elimination of the 354 in Option 1 would create overcrowding on the 351 and a hardship to all the southeast commuters.
• No details given regarding the schedule or transferring for the new routes M, P, Q, R. These routes are to replace the C50, C51, C52 and C53. Changing the name only creates confusion. Why not keep ‘C’ for community terminology?
• All people travelling to the hospital will have to transfer at White Rock Centre. Most of these people are elderly with mobility and medical issues.
• The elimination of the 351 west loop in uptown White Rock has not been thought through. With towers under construction and more to come, it is a necessity.
• Additional transfer for riders travelling to the airport. This is significant as they’ll most likely have luggage.
• Option 1 would decrease the frequency and capacity of buses between South Surrey Park & Ride and Bridgeport. TransLink made a commitment to increase this when they eliminated the 351 direct to Vancouver.
What this proposal – either option – will achieve:
• Encouraging people who use the public transit to get back in their car.
• Better service for the Morgan Crossing area at the expense of other parts of South Surrey and White Rock.
Morgan Crossing requires additional services but not at the expense of the rest of South Surrey/White Rock. If TransLink can justify the Evergreen spend, why not a few buses for Morgan Crossing that transfer into the existing routes. The money should be available from the property taxes generated by the new housing.
Both options are unacceptable.
Eliminating the 354 is a non-starter. TransLink has submitted Option 1 to make you think you have a choice.
But there is no acceptable choice. Option 1 horrible, Option 2 not so horrible.
If you would like to review the proposal, visit www.translink.ca/tnc and select “White Rock - South Surrey”.
As well, TransLink will have a booth at the Oct. 29 community forum at White Rock Community Centre.
Debby Gill, Surrey