TransLink reveals winter preparedness plan [Video]

TransLink shared its plan Monday to keep commuters moving this winter as temperatures drop across Metro Vancouver.

After testing new winter tires last year, more buses will be equipped with the Michelin Grip D tires on key routes this season, the transit provider says.

About 600 buses, out of approximately 1,700 total, will get the tires which have deeper treads. The tires normally used on TransLink’s fleet year-round are also winter-rated.

In addition, the operator says 16 new articulated buses with centre drive axles will go into service this winter, which provide better traction, stability and steering control. The vehicles will work on steep, slippery routes.

On the SkyTrain, a de-icing solution is used and trains are run overnight to stop snow from building up on guideways.

Staff armed with hockey sticks also remove snow and ice buildup from the trains’ doors.

During days with poor weather, transit riders are …