The SkyTrain in Vancouver, British Columbia, is one of the most recognizable elements of the city’s transportation infrastructure. It has a rich history that is closely tied to Vancouver’s urban development and its focus on providing efficient, sustainable public transportation.
Here’s a comprehensive look at the story of SkyTrain:
Origins and Planning
The origins of Vancouver’s SkyTrain system date back to the 1970s when Metro Vancouver faced increasing population growth and rising traffic congestion. City planners and provincial authorities began exploring ways to improve public transit in the region. At the time, Vancouver relied heavily on buses, and while this served the city well, it was clear that something more substantial and efficient was required.
In the late 1970s, the concept of rapid transit took center stage. The provincial government under Premier Bill Bennett sought a futuristic transportation solution that would not only ease congestion but also position Vancouver as a forward-thinking city in terms of public transit. The idea of a fully automated, driverless light rapid transit (LRT) system emerged as an innovative solution.
Expo 86 and the Launch of the SkyTrain
The SkyTrain officially launched in time for Vancouver’s Expo 86, a World’s Fair that was themed around transportation and communication. The original line, known as the Expo Line, stretched from Waterfront Station in downtown Vancouver to New Westminster, later extending further east to Surrey. The system’s name, “SkyTrain,” was fitting, as much of the track was elevated, providing passengers with scenic views of the city while traveling above the streets.
Expo 86 was a key catalyst for getting the SkyTrain built on time. The province invested heavily in the project, using the event as an opportunity to showcase Vancouver as a modern, innovative, and globally connected city. The SkyTrain’s fully automated technology was groundbreaking. It became the first rapid transit system in the world to use Linear Induction Motors (LIMs), which allow for smooth, energy-efficient propulsion with no direct contact between the train and the track.
Growth and Expansion
The success of the Expo Line, and the fact that it became a symbol of Vancouver’s modernization, set the stage for further expansion.
Millennium Line (2002): The second major expansion of the SkyTrain system came with the opening of the Millennium Line in 2002. This line was built to address the transportation needs of the growing populations in Burnaby, New Westminster, and East Vancouver. The Millennium Line ran from VCC–Clark to Columbia Station in New Westminster, largely running parallel to the Expo Line.
Canada Line (2009): In 2009, the Canada Line was introduced to connect Vancouver with the city of Richmond and the Vancouver International Airport (YVR). This line was particularly significant as it helped manage traffic and passenger volume for the 2010 Winter Olympics, which Vancouver hosted. Unlike the Expo and Millennium Lines, the Canada Line uses a different type of train and operates slightly differently but still integrates seamlessly with the larger SkyTrain system.
Evergreen Extension (2016): The Evergreen Extension of the Millennium Line opened in 2016, connecting Coquitlam and Port Moody with the rest of the SkyTrain network. This expansion improved access to the rapidly growing suburbs of Metro Vancouver, reflecting the region’s commitment to making public transit a viable option for residents beyond Vancouver’s core.
Broadway Subway (Under Construction): Another significant extension under construction is the Broadway Subway, which is a western extension of the Millennium Line that will run from VCC–Clark to Arbutus Street. This project, expected to be completed in the mid-2020s, will serve one of the busiest transit corridors in Canada, especially around the University of British Columbia (UBC) area. There are also ongoing discussions about extending the line to UBC’s campus.
Technological Innovation
One of the hallmarks of the SkyTrain is its use of driverless trains. The system operates using automatic train control, meaning that trains are operated remotely from a central control room. This level of automation reduces human error, ensures consistent and safe travel, and allows for frequent service without the need for onboard staff.
Another technological advance used by the SkyTrain is its reliance on Linear Induction Motors (LIMs), which are quieter and more efficient than traditional motors. This makes the SkyTrain one of the most energy-efficient transit systems in the world. Furthermore, the LIMs allow the trains to climb steeper gradients, which is important in the hilly terrain of the Greater Vancouver area.
Challenges and Criticisms
Despite its success, the SkyTrain system has faced its share of challenges and criticisms. One concern has been the cost of building and expanding the system. The Canada Line, in particular, drew controversy during its construction phase, as some residents and businesses along the construction route experienced significant disruption.
Another criticism has been the capacity of the system during peak hours. As Vancouver’s population continues to grow, the SkyTrain sometimes struggles to accommodate the sheer number of passengers, especially on the Expo Line.
Additionally, some critics have pointed out that while the SkyTrain serves the more urbanized and denser parts of Metro Vancouver, many suburban and rural areas remain underserved by rapid transit. This has led to calls for more bus routes and alternative transportation options in these regions.
Current Status and Future Plans
Today, the SkyTrain system operates across three major lines:
Expo Line (serving Downtown Vancouver to Surrey)
Millennium Line (running from VCC–Clark to Lafarge Lake–Douglas)
Canada Line (connecting Downtown Vancouver with Richmond and Vancouver International Airport)
The system is managed by TransLink, the transportation authority responsible for public transit across Metro Vancouver. Ridership has steadily increased, with millions of trips taken annually, and the SkyTrain has become integral to Vancouver’s identity as a livable, transit-friendly city.
Looking forward, Vancouver continues to invest in the expansion of the SkyTrain network. The Broadway Subway extension of the Millennium Line is highly anticipated, and there are ongoing discussions about further expansions to underserved areas such as Langley and UBC. There are also efforts to ensure the system can handle growing passenger volumes and to maintain its reputation for efficiency, safety, and innovation.
Legacy
The SkyTrain is much more than a means of transportation. It represents Vancouver’s efforts to build a sustainable, world-class city. Its automated, driverless design was revolutionary when it was introduced, and it has since become a model for rapid transit systems in other parts of the world. For residents and visitors alike, the SkyTrain is a vital part of daily life, offering a fast, environmentally friendly way to navigate the region’s complex geography.