Transit Pilot Lane

The City of Whitehorse recently piloted a dedicated bus lane in Riverdale, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and transit delays during the morning commute.

Every morning between January 15 and 19, a dedicated northbound traffic lane was open on Lewes Boulevard for Transit buses and bikes, from 7:30 to 9:00 a.m. To make this happen, the existing bike lane on Lewes Boulevard was expanded from Grey Mountain School to Hospital Road. Pylons with signage were placed on the road, and City staff were available to help drivers know where to go.

Traffic congestion in Riverdale during morning peak commute hours results in transit delays of up to 17 minutes. This can result in later routes being cancelled, and many Riverdale residents also choose not to take the bus. If the buses can be on time, the service that Whitehorse Transit provides could greatly improve, resulting in more riders, less cars on the road, and improved air quality.

Additional key information

• There is no parking allowed along Lewes Boulevard. School children need to be dropped off in school parking lots.
• A survey was open for participants to help us learn from their experience 
• The results of this will help inform the ongoing 2018 Transit Master Plan
• Changes in traffic flows were also being monitored by on-site observers and traffic cameras