The elevators that have served SkyTrain passengers since 1985 are finally being retired.
TransLink confirmed this week that the original elevators along the Expo Line are being replaced after nearly four decades of service.
The move follows the recent replacement of 37 original escalators across the network. But officials stress the upgrades are more than just replacements — they’re improvements designed with modern commuters in mind.
“The new elevators will offer 20 per cent more space, making them easier to use for passengers with mobility devices, strollers, bikes, or luggage,” said TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn during an Oct. 1 board meeting. “They’re also built for greater reliability, featuring cooling systems to prevent overheating during hot weather and requiring less downtime for maintenance.”
Each elevator replacement takes about four months to complete, meaning construction will roll out gradually along the line.
“These improvements are an important part of keeping our transit system safe, reliable, and accessible for years to come,” Quinn added.
The Expo Line, Metro Vancouver’s first SkyTrain route, has been in service since the system’s launch for Expo 86. The upgrade marks a significant milestone in modernizing the infrastructure that millions of commuters depend on annually.
