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The end is near for transit riders waiting for new bus shelter at Chalko Mika Mall

Nelson Daily Staff
By Nelson Daily Staff
July 28th, 2016

The long awaited new transit bus shelter for the Chahko Mika Mall is expected to be completed and begin operation in early August said a City of Nelson media release Wednesday.

The shelter was moved to outside Wal-Mart from near the Save-On-Foods grocery story in the fall of 2015.

The transition has been especially tough on riders, who voiced displeasure over the makeshift shelter near the Wal-Mart Garden Centre.

“We are very pleased with the new location as it keeps our buses out of the main parking lot and provides easy access for people travelling home with their groceries,” Mayor Deb Kozak said in the media release.

“Our drivers will access the new stop from the back of the mall, avoiding the main parking lot all together.”

“I am also happy to report that the new stop will provide more shelter from inclement weather,” Kozak added.

Buses from both Nelson Transit and Arrow Slocan Lakes have long navigated through the Mall parking lot to pick up passengers at the bus stop located in front of Save-On Foods.

The City said travelling through the parking lot has been challenging as transit drivers experienced traffic congestion, pedestrian movement between vehicles and issues with sharing the parking lot with larger vehicles, such as motorhomes, other buses and the Nelson Streetcar 23.

The City said Nelson and BC Transit felt it was prudent to explore other options to house the bus stop, which would provide greater public safety and easier access for our drivers.
 
Working together with Riocan (Mall Owner) and BC Transit, city staff explored other options and found a suitable location adjacent to Save-On Foods, just a few meters away from the original stop.
 
Public Works’ crews started construction on July 18th, 2016 and are on track to complete the project by August 8th.

Mayor Kozak said Nelson Transit has also listened to riders plea for service to the Real Canadian Wholesale Club and along Lakeside Drive.

“I am also pleased to announce that we will also be implementing service to the Real Canadian Wholesale Club located on Lakeside Drive,” said Mayor Kozak. 

“This service will run 3x daily Monday to Friday and once on Saturday and will begin August 8th.

The three runs from Ward and Baker Streets to Lakeside Drive begin at 11:06 a.m., 1:11 p.m. and 2:34 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Saturday’s run goes at 2:02 p.m.

Runs from the Nelson Airport to Ward and Baker Streets go at 12:48 p.m., 2:16 p.m. and 3:11 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Saturday’s lone run back to the downtown goes at 3:13 p.m.

For complete West Kootenay Transit schedule check out the website.

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