BC Ferries is looking for more input on proposed changes to the Southern Gulf Islands route.
The company has been looking to change the schedules to take avantage of new ferries coming into service in 2017.
“While we’ve done a great deal of analysis and traffic modelling, we know that getting our customers’ input is just as important,” says Mark Collins of BC Ferries. “Trying to balance the competing wants and needs of five islands (Salt Spring, Galiano, Pender, Mayne and Saturna) is a challenge and requires careful consideration before making any adjustments.”
Collins says after hearing from the public – many of whom were very outspoken about their concerns – they’ve reworked their plan.
Collins says the other concern they heard was that travel between the islands would be more difficult.
One of the adjustments they’ve made is an off-peak schedule that’s close to the current service
Other highlights of the updated draft schedules include:
• In the shoulder seasons, weekend service will be increased with the second new Salish Class vessel.
• In the peak season, there will be more sailing opportunities while maintaining inter-island connections on weekdays, as well as improvements from Tsawwassen to the Southern Gulf Islands on weekends.
The current draft of the schedules, and a new opinion survey, are online at bcferries.com
