TransLink ready for possible snowfall this week

TRANSLINK said on Monday that it has plans in place to ensure its service remains safe, and as reliable as possible when winter weather hits.

Current weather forecasts anticipate the potential for snow Tuesday morning, with a higher chance of snow and freezing conditions on Thursday. TransLink said it is closely monitoring the weather and preparing under its snow / adverse weather plans.

Immediate steps taken:

· Trolley wire de-icing trucks are prepared, and ready to apply de-icer to the 300-km trolley wire system in Vancouver if temperatures drop.

· The de-icer SkyTrain is being prepared, ready to protect the power rail from ice build-up.

· Salt bins (23 in total) have been installed at bus loops and exchanges, to ensure quick access to salt to address icy conditions.

· “Slippery condition” caution signs installed at all loops and exchanges

· Preparing to call in extra staff (Transit Supervisors, SkyTrain Attendants and Transit Security).

For a full list of TransLink’s winter preparedness plans, see this backgrounder from earlier this fall.