A unique partnership pushes for SkyTrain to UBC
It’s common for cities and regions to advocate for transit projects. Three First Nations, a university and a city partnering to advocate for a transit infrastructure project is something new.
In November 2019, UBC, the City of Vancouver and the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Development Corporation (MST-DC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding committing to work collaboratively toward the joint objective of securing federal, provincial and regional support and approvals to have SkyTrain from Arbutus to UBC completed as soon as reasonably possible. The partners established the MOU because they share a vision for transportation, housing, economic development, and access to post-secondary education in BC.
Three First Nations, a university and a city coming together to advocate for a transit infrastructure project is unprecedented in Canada, possibly North America. This partnership brings new perspectives and ideas into the processes that shape the transit projects that serve our growing and diverse communities. It builds on the spirit of partnership established on other transformational project in the region like the Canada Line and brings new partners to the table.
“I’m honoured to stand alongside leaders from the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations and Mayor Kennedy Stewart in this partnership, and I look forward to working collaboratively towards our shared vision: a rapid transit network that connects our communities to one another and to the Metro Vancouver region, cutting congestion, reducing commute times, improving access to more sustainable modes of transportation and expanding access to affordable housing options.
Extending SkyTrain to UBC will make the campus more accessible to current and prospective students, faculty, staff and regional partners and it will enable us to enhance our teaching and research programs and deepen our community and industry engagement.”
Santa J. Ono,
President and Vice-Chancellor
University of British Columbia
Interested in Learning More?
Read the news release from the City of Vancouver here.
Impact & Benefits
SkyTrain to UBC will facilitate more partnerships and collaborative projects throughout the Metro Vancouver region while enhancing access to education, medical, recreational and cultural services, reducing congestion and improving UBC’s ability to deliver on its strategic vision.