Jan 22, 2024

Coast Mountain Bus Company (CMBC) is currently in negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement with CUPE Local 4500, the union that represents approximately 180 transit supervisors. Disruptions to bus and SeaBus service began early this morning.  These services are expected to resume on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024. Job action could include rotating strikes affecting different routes, services, and frequency. At this time, SkyTrain, West Coast Express, and HandyDART service are not be affected.

The College will remain open as usual with regularly scheduled classes and services. Employees: please check in with your leader or supervisor if you anticipate a possible disruption to your commute. Students: please check in with your instructor(s) if you anticipate not being able to attend in-person classes.

We recognize this escalation in job action will cause disruption for students and employees and we appreciate these concerns. Please consider the following:  

  • Follow TransLink: Sign up for Transit Alerts (alerts.translink.ca) , follow @TransLink on X/Twitter, or check translink.ca for updates. Follow the Translink website for updates: https://buzzer.translink.ca/job-action 
  • Consider carpooling: Ask and see if there is someone along the same route. We anticipate increased traffic in our parking lots, so be cautious when driving or walking to avoid accidents. 
  • Passenger zone: There is a passenger zone on West 49th Avenue directly in front of the College. 
  • Use a car-share program such as Evo. These programs allow for parking in residential permit-only areas which is a bonus. 

FAQ

What if I can’t get to class because there is no bus service?
Students are encouraged to check their course outline and contact their instructor if they are concerned about potentially arriving late for classes or missing classes.

Are employees expected to come to campus in the event of disruption?
Yes. The College will operate as normal, regardless of the level of strike action. Classes will proceed and employees are expected to attend work as normally scheduled. Employees are advised to contact their manager, department head, leader, or dean (as appropriate) if needed.

When there is an all-out strike, does the campus close?
No. Regardless of the level of strike action, the College operates as normal. Classes proceed and employees are expected to attend work.

Will this disruption affect exams?
The College will monitor the job action and plan accordingly for any impact to the exam period.