Dawson Creek city council members are considering the future of the local bus system as a contract with BC Transit approaches its expiration date this spring. During a meeting on April 13, 2026, officials reviewed potential restructuring options for the service, which could change how residents travel around the city.
The current transit system consists of two main bus routes, known as the Northside and Southside, which are operated by Diversified Transportation. Riders often face long wait times when traveling between these routes, with some trips taking up to 80 minutes if a transfer is required. Additionally, a recurring issue involves service gaps during the middle of the day, specifically between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m., when the number of vehicles on the road is reduced.
City staff noted that while the cost to operate the transit system is rising, with the next annual cost projected at roughly $430,000, those expenses are not currently high enough to force a service cut. However, council is weighing all options as part of the 2026 budget process. City documentation indicates that eliminating the transit service entirely would lower the local tax rate by approximately 1.87 percent.
To address existing service gaps and improve efficiency, the city is exploring new options, including moving to a single-route model or adopting an on-demand transit service. This technology, developed by BC Transit, would allow passengers to book trips using a smartphone app or by phone, potentially offering more direct routes and shorter wait times. These discussions come after the federal government provided funding in 2025 to support local transit planning and community engagement.
The city, which updated its transportation master plan last year, has not yet made a final decision on whether to renew its partnership with the provincial transit corporation. Residents with questions or concerns regarding the future of local transportation can contact the City of Dawson Creek office at 250-784-3600 to reach Devon Aaroe, the general manager of development services.
