The service would be rolling out in 2020 and expected to be completed by 2025.
TransLink, Metro Vancouver’s transportation network and Shaw Communications Inc., a leading Canadian connectivity company has joined hands to provide free Wi-Fi for transit customers across Metro Vancouver.
TransLink to be the first transit authority in Canada to offer such a service
Kevin Desmond, CEO, TransLink, stated, “We have half-a-million people ride our system every day, and when we ask them what they’d like to see on transit, Wi-Fi is one of the most frequent requests.” He added, “We’re proud to be the first transit authority in Canada to offer this free Wi-Fi service and we’re doing it at no cost to our customers or taxpayers.”
According to the agreement between TransLink and Shaw will see these enhancements come at no cost to TransLink or its customers. Moreover, Shaw will install and operate the Wi-Fi system. Reportedly, since 2016, there has been free Wi-Fi at SeaBus terminals and on SeaBus ferries through a similar agreement with Shaw.
Katherine Emberly, President, Business, Brand and Communications, Shaw Communications, stated, “Every day, thousands of people use their transit commute to catch up on life and reach out to friends, family and colleagues — and having access to seamless connectivity is what makes this possible.” He also Said, “Whether it’s through text, email or social media, these connections are at the heart of our business, and the Wi-Fi system will enable us to keep more riders in Metro Vancouver connected as they travel across the system.”
The timelines of free Wi-Fi service
Both the entities will refine the system design and plan to run trials in 2019, with deployment starting in 2020. TransLink expects the entire network to be completed by 2025. Wi-Fi rollout will begin with SkyTrain and buses.
The service would not be limited to only Shaw customers
The service will be for TransLink riders – whether or not they are Shaw customers – will be able to stay connected for free throughout their commute on bus, SkyTrain or SeaBus. TransLink intends to eventually provide Wi-Fi on all modes, including HandyDART, West Coast Express, and community shuttle buses.
