Maple Ridge, BC – July 26, 2024 – The Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce has expressed deep concern following a recent report suggesting potential cuts to TransLink services. The report outlines possible reductions in transit services, including a possible termination of the West Coast Express, which serves as a crucial mode of transportation for residents of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows.

Kristi Maier, CEO of the Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce, voiced her alarm over the findings. “This report is shocking,” Maier stated. “Transit is a key component to business; it helps thousands of people get to and from work on a daily basis. The thought of not running the West Coast Express would be devastating for Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows. This is one of the busiest modes of transport in our communities.”

Maier also emphasized the broader implications of the potential cuts. “Not only will this impact our current means of transportation, but it also raises concerns about the future of our planned Bus Rapid Transit line. Government needs to step up and take action, or this will devastate our community and every community around us.”

The Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce calls on the Provincial and Federal governments to address these concerns and ensure the continuation of vital transit services that support local businesses and the community at large.

The City of Pitt Meadows Mayor Nicole MacDonald also shared: "The City is aligned with the Chamber and extends our gratitude to the Mayors' Council and TransLink's efforts to take action and voice our collective concerns. There needs to be a new immediate funding model. Transit is integral to the livability, congestion, affordability, climate initiatives and economy of the region. Losing the bus service along with the West Coast Express would have real-life impacts not only for transit users who use the bus or train to get to work or school, but it will also result in increased congestion on the roads, in addition to impacting business. As the population increases largely due to federal immigration numbers, and housing is needed and being mandated across the entire Metro Vancouver area, transit is essential. You cannot impose Transit Orientated Housing and not provide the required TransLink services."

When asked to provide insight, Mayor Dan Ruimy commented: " The City appreciates the Chamber's support and leadership on this important issue which impacts residents, businesses, and everyone in our community. It is vital to both our economy and quality of life. We cannot reach our vision of housing affordability, transit-oriented development, and climate action to meet the growing needs of our community if we don't have the basics right like public transit. We fully standby the Mayors' Council and TransLink's calls to Save Public Transit, which is an essential service that people rely on daily and is needed if we are going to be building livable communities we want to for the future."

For more information, please contact: Kristi Maier, CEO

Ridge Meadows Chamber of Commerce 

Kristi@ridgemeadowschamber.com