BC Ferries has announced that drivers will soon have to book in advance on the increasingly busy Horseshoe Bay-Departure Bay route, but only when heading to the Island.
Foot passengers travelling from Vancouver to Nanaimo will not be impacted by the changes.
"Beginning this fall, a pre-booking only model will be introduced for all vehicles travelling from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay, with drive-up fare options no longer available," BC Ferries wrote in a press release. "A portion of vessel deck space will continue to be available for emergency responders and passengers with Medical Assured Loading."
The ferry operator said the change was "designed to prevent traffic from backing up onto the highway, keeping customers and staff safe, and supporting better traffic flow through the terminal during construction."
"The need for change is clear," BC Ferries continued, noting that the "high traffic volumes and congestion" during the Easter long weekend exposed "the limitations of the Horseshoe Bay terminal."
Construction at the Horseshoe Bay terminal is set to kick off in the fall, beginning with the demolition of the elevated concrete holding area and relocation of the traffic operations centre. While work is being done, vehicle traffic inside the terminal is predicted to be reduced by around 25%.
BC Ferries said more details about the changes will be released in the coming months, following engagement with communities. The operator adder that it is developing "digital twin technology" to "simulate how traffic will move through the terminal during each phase of construction."
"Planning and procurement work is now underway with major upgrades scheduled in the fall following the busy summer peak season," Vice President of Engineering Stephen Jones said. "A dedicated team is in place to deliver these projects on time and on budget, ensuring cost-effective investments in the terminal's future, with careful planning to ensure we maintain service, minimize disruptions, and deliver a safer, more reliable experience both during construction and well into the future."
