Late last week, BC Transit posted an alert that "due to ongoing challenges with inappropriate and unsafe behaviour," two daytime trips on the Route 1 Brackendale/Downtown, which picks up in front of Brackendale Elementary, were being stopped.
The changes are effective April 15 through June 28.
BC Transit said that as of April 15, the Route 1 stop at 11:31 a.m. will no longer stop at both Brackendale Elementary School and Don Ross Middle School.
The Route 1 at 3:12 p.m. will no longer stop at Brackendale Elementary School and will proceed directly to Don Ross Middle School. The 3:14 p.m., Route 1 bus will "continue to make stops at both schools to provide sufficient service for customers at both locations."
When asked for more details, BC Transit and the school district provided little to explain what exactly caused the changes, but both praised the collaboration that led to the decision to make them.
"BC Transit appreciates the ongoing support and collaboration with the administration at both schools and will continue to closely monitor these locations to ensure we are providing safe and reliable transportation," a BC Transit spokesperson said in an email to The Squamish Chief.
A spokesperson for the school district said the decision "to make some small adjustments" to daytime service on Route 1 followed ongoing collaboration between the administrations of Brackendale Elementary and Don Ross Middle School, BC Transit, and the District of Squamish.
"After months of review, observation, and collaboration, the logistical challenges for both passengers and drivers on BC Transit have been collectively addressed. We are hopeful that these changes will be beneficial," said SD48's Jennifer Morris.
"The trial adjustment to the bus service was based on the volume of students making use of BC Transit after school, access to supervision, and a desire for our schools to be good stewards of our community. We are hopeful that the hard work invested by all stakeholders will continue to foster good partnerships," she added.
Families and students at Brackendale Elementary and Don Ross Middle School were alerted to the changes, Morris said.
"Any future updates or changes to the BC Transit bus routes will continue to be promptly communicated to ensure everyone stays informed."
