Construction has started on a major upgrade of the Phibbs Exchange in North Vancouver that will increase capacity, enhance safety and security, improve active transportation connections and support the evolution of transit service on the North Shore for decades to come.

“The Government of Canada is committed to supporting projects that connect our communities. Investing in public transit infrastructure facilitates convenient, inclusive and sustainable public transportation. Once complete, the major upgrade of the Phibbs Exchange will improve transit in North Vancouver and help more British Columbians get to where they need to go as safely and efficiently as possible,” said Johnathon Wilkinson, federal minister of Natural Resources and MP for North Vancouver.

The $32-million Phibbs project includes 12 new bus bays to accommodate the community’s current and future transit needs, including additional space for articulated (accordion) buses. The project will also ensure that the Phibbs Exchange is compatible with RapidBus service to meet the needs of the growing North Shore community.

The improved exchange will feature safer pedestrian and cycling accessways, better lighting and signage, and enhanced road infrastructure with new drainage facilities and on-site rain gardens. Commuters and transit employees will also benefit from two new buildings – a snack bar and a transit operator rest station.

“Providing a safer and better-equipped exchange point for those taking transit around the North Shore is a good step towards addressing our challenging transportation needs,” said Mike Little, mayor of the District of North Vancouver. “Phibbs Exchange is one of the most critical transit hubs in our community, so these much-needed upgrades are welcome additions.”

The first six months of construction will be focused on relocating existing transit needs. Full construction is expected to begin in the spring 2023.

The project was awarded to Conwest Contracting Ltd. in September.