[jeedee]

Post up any of your past experiences with Translink, your horror stories, translink updates, or even your rants.

Just curious to find out what RevScener's stories are with Translink [good or bad]

I'll post up mine later

[Volvo-brickster]

Fucking skytrain. Irony is I'm on it right now.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[nns]

“How do you spell f-cking losers? Bus riders union!” - Larry Campbell.

[lgman]

When there's even a hint of snow the trains begin shut down sequence, emergency generator blow up and everything is in red-alert. Happy El-Nina muther F_!

[murd0c]

Back in the day when they had the scratch day pass's I used to use one every month and if I saw the skycops come checking tickets then I would scratch it. I did that for 2 yrs and didn't get caught once.

[twitchyzero]

does anyone know if the buses will be equipped with snow-tires after that snow disaster back in '08?
they were super lucky it only snowed for half a day last year..let's hope they are at least half-prepared

[Gnomes]

The year was 2000. Fresh out of highschool going to bcit for 1st day - orientation. I take the bus to nanaimo skytrain station to catch the #25 but got stranded there. "Wildcat strike". Skytrain not operational. No money to taxi, walked 10 blocks home. Fuck you translink.

[TRDood]

Back in the day when they had the scratch day pass's I used to use one every month and if I saw the skycops come checking tickets then I would scratch it. I did that for 2 yrs and didn't get caught once.

That's very smart!

Haha.. I just use my "cancelled" upass
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

[Vansterdam]

- spent a night in jail cause of translink FAIL
- last winter due to snow skytrain/buses were late approx 1 hour total altogether.. finally get on the bus and guess what? fucken gets stuck in the snow AFTER 2 BLOCKS, had to walk my ass 30/40 blocks in the unpaved snow

fuck i hated that day


those long style buses like the 99bline are fucken USELESS uphill during snow

don't know why they even bother

[luibei]

back in university every time the train would mess up it would always b on a day of a midterm or finals...
translink = one of the most unreliable mode of transportation n even worst whenever theres a screw up on the train this msg comes on about how you will be moving shortly unfortunately that slowly means 45mins... i hate that y not just tell us it will be a while so we can immediately look for alternatives.

positives= many nice bus drivers i have encountered lately, makes the day better

[CRS]

So is my Orca Card here yet?

[Arash]

With a country so vast in resources... lumber and minerals, why doesn't the governemnt sell some crown land and setup our own transit system, a nationalized transit system so that we do not have to pay Translink, a privately owned corporation.

We as tax payers paid for all the roads, telephone (internet) companies and translink should be paying us back for using our roads.

/rant

[jeedee]

I remember last year, someone committed suicide at Stadium Station and all the trains were delayed. Huge line ups at Broadway and this was around rush hour [3:40PM].

I waited literally an hour and a half till I finally could get on a train...

[Mugen EvOlutioN]

overpriced piece of shit, enough said

[rien]

Back in the day when they had the scratch day pass's I used to use one every month and if I saw the skycops come checking tickets then I would scratch it. I did that for 2 yrs and didn't get caught once.

Smart idea! Were those the daypasses?
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[murd0c]

Smart idea! Were those the daypasses?
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Yep the ones with the month and day that had scratch ticket style to it.

[TRD Rs200]

over priced pos... period

[satek]

Fuck you Translink!! greedy sobs.

[keifun]

unreliable public transit, and I live Vancouver too. I really feel bad for those that live in Surrey/Delta/Langley etc. and need to take public transit.

It was because of translink that I saved up all my hard earnings for a car.

[nack]

translink adding taxes to "support" itself, really?

:facepalm:

[cho]

Back in 08 got off work from sci world
Waited 2 hours at 6pm for a 3/8/19 heading east
Took the 19, didn't stop at my stop and went all the way to metro, stuck on the left turn before the loop for about 15 mins, bus floored it and went free, friends call and ask if I need a ride right when I get off -.-
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[Presto]

The year was 2000. Fresh out of highschool going to bcit for 1st day - orientation. I take the bus to nanaimo skytrain station to catch the #25 but got stranded there. "Wildcat strike". Skytrain not operational. No money to taxi, walked 10 blocks home. Fuck you translink.

You probably needed a walk, fat-ass. 10 blocks is nothing.

[JSALES]

i remember the one day i decided to take translink for the first time in a long time, the bus i was on gets in a little car accident. you know how some bus driver's get aggravated and think they're the shit and can squeeze into tight spaces. well yeah, this driver hit a car

[TomBox_N]

I always get bus-sick whenever I haven't taken the bus for a long time.
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[PiuYi]

I always get bus-sick whenever I haven't taken the bus for a long time.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

take the bus then, maybe you'll feel better

[Alby]

so just to play devils advocate, would everyone in here be happy IF translink was gone and no public transportation were in place until another company comes in?

people complain and complain, but they won't appreciate it until its gone.

[rexsomnii]

On a snowy day in 2008 I was waiting for the bus at commercial drive. The busses couldn't make it up the victoria drive hill. Had to walk from there all the way to knight and 49th in snow up to my ankles .. Sucked big time.
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[LsquareD]

i hate you translink!

been late for school + work so many times because of you + track jumpers.

[Oleophobic]

You probably needed a walk, fat-ass. 10 blocks is nothing.

no kidding
at my old place I had to pretty much walk 10 blocks everyday just to get to the bus stop to go to SFU....

[Euro7r]

The hell, bus fare costs $2.50 now. What the hell happened to $0.75 bus fare. Getting raped up in the ass by Translink. I guess I haven't taken the bus for a very long time.

[goo3]

buy a car!

[AzNightmare]

You guys are a bunch of whiners. So many people hate the bus and skytrain, yet depend on it. It's like the same people hating on the police.

[Gnomes]

You probably needed a walk, fat-ass. 10 blocks is nothing.

It's not the walking, it is missing the 1st day of school. Even though orientation day is not "important", there is still tons of info for freshman who needs this shit.

[illicitstylz]

You guys are a bunch of whiners. So many people hate the bus and skytrain, yet depend on it. It's like the same people hating on the police.
There's a difference.

People that rely on the bus should not "whine" or "bitch" about Translink service.

However, if you've worked hard to afford your own car/own method of transportation such that you don't have to deal with Translink and it's bullshit, then you should be free to whine and bitch all you want.

[alsex]

I haven't taken skytrain/bus for many years because I've had enough of it.

Well, bus I stopped taking because they stopped it ever since Canada Line skytrain went up. Even when it was running it was pretty much a lottery's chance of getting on before the last bus at 9am in the morning because it was so jam packed. Then I'll have to walk 15min to another bus stop to catch that bus or go back home grab my car and drive it to work. Eventually I gave up and just drove.

The Skytrain I stopped taking because from my previous years of exp when I used to live close to skytrain (expo line) I just remember that thing shutting down or running ultra slow all the time due to 'medical emergency' or other issues like the 1cm of snow we get or mechanical failure.

There was this one night I was taking skytrain (expo) home after work back in 1999 or 2000 and as the skytrain was arriving at the entrance of the Broadway station it felt like the skytrain hopped off of the tracks all of a sudden and everybody flew off their seats. It felt like driving over a speedbump at 50km/h. I was sitting in the forward section of the train in the first car. At the moment I thought it was derailed and the train would tip and fall into the alley behind Mcd's. It fell back onto the track and screeched to a stop. Doors stayed shut for a long time and then transit pollice came and escorted everybody out.
I think there was someone under there because no one was allowed to walk to the front of the train. Then the following day it happened again where the skytrain stopped because somebody got run over again on the tracks, but i wasnt on the train this time, I only heard from my friend.

[JSALES]

the thing i hate sometimes about translink is if i'm running for the bus and just about get in front of the door, the bus driver will still leave sometimes. that pisses me off especially if the buses run every 30 minutes

[nataku]

There are many ways to improve the transit system, true. However the riders don't always help either.

I drive the bus and the problem I find is that the public lack proper etiquette and common sense. Lets be honest, most people in vancouver are lazy. I have seen people who fear of the idea of walking across the street.

For example if you take the bus going east on 41st, when you arrive at Victoria there is a stop at both sides. Why does there need to be a stop at both sides? I let everyone off on the near side and I see that there is no one at the next stop across victoria. As soon as I have the green light and start moving someone rings the damn bell. I stop again for one person to get off. Now I have to wait for the person to figure out how to use the back doors. Next I sometimes would hear the person scream, driver open the door! I see them always slapping the door or pushing really hard on them or placing their hand on the door too soon. By the time they figure it out and I get the bus going again about traffic has begun moving again and I have to merge onto traffic again. Do this for about 8hrs a day and it does become a pisser. It is slow and tedious process operating the back doors on the new buses.

I'm gonna point out some things that annoy me while I am at work, see if any of these things sound familiar.

- Not having the fare ready. As soon as they come on they start rummaging through their bag or start to count change all the while people are waiting outside in the rain or snow.

- Not moving toward the back of the bus. This is a problem. There is room in the back, but no one moves. The bus is so long the driver cannot possibly see how much room there is. I stand out of my seat to check and then ask everyone to move back. Of course there is one fool who is standing in the middle with their Ipod on full blast and cannot care what else is happening to the world around him.

- People who think its cute to let their children put their fare in fare box. Kids who can actually see where they are inserting the fare are fine. While other kids are trying to guess where to put the fare, I am blocking 1 lane of traffic while a large group of people who just got off another bus want to come on are now waiting in the rain.

- people who wait at the bus stop to ask for directions. Yes there are people who do not want to take the bus, but wait at the stop for a bus to come and ask for directions. So I pull the bus into the stop for nothing.

- people who want the first bus. Yes, even when my bus is full people still force their way on even though there is another bus you can see is behind me with seats available. Some how they think I would be faster because I'm the first one.

- Those who complain that they have been waiting. I understand you have been waiting, but I am not at fault. Sometimes the bus in front is broken down and I manage to stay on time and I still get an earful.

- people who ask me what time a bus on a different route is coming. I am not a schedule. I do not have the entire systems schedule memorized. Sometimes the schedule is posted on the pole at the stop, have a look at it.

- people who want directions and stick a map in front of my face while I am driving. Are you crazy?

These are only some of the examples, I'll tell everyone some more some other time.

[CRS]

There are many ways to improve the transit system, true. However the riders don't always help either.

I drive the bus and the problem I find is that the public lack proper etiquette and common sense. Lets be honest, most people in vancouver are lazy. I have seen people who fear of the idea of walking across the street.

For example if you take the bus going east on 41st, when you arrive at Victoria there is a stop at both sides. Why does there need to be a stop at both sides? I let everyone off on the near side and I see that there is no one at the next stop across victoria. As soon as I have the green light and start moving someone rings the damn bell. I stop again for one person to get off. Now I have to wait for the person to figure out how to use the back doors. Next I sometimes would hear the person scream, driver open the door! I see them always slapping the door or pushing really hard on them or placing their hand on the door too soon. By the time they figure it out and I get the bus going again about traffic has begun moving again and I have to merge onto traffic again. Do this for about 8hrs a day and it does become a pisser. It is slow and tedious process operating the back doors on the new buses.

I'm gonna point out some things that annoy me while I am at work, see if any of these things sound familiar.

- Not having the fare ready. As soon as they come on they start rummaging through their bag or start to count change all the while people are waiting outside in the rain or snow.

- Not moving toward the back of the bus. This is a problem. There is room in the back, but no one moves. The bus is so long the driver cannot possibly see how much room there is. I stand out of my seat to check and then ask everyone to move back. Of course there is one fool who is standing in the middle with their Ipod on full blast and cannot care what else is happening to the world around him.

- People who think its cute to let their children put their fare in fare box. Kids who can actually see where they are inserting the fare are fine. While other kids are trying to guess where to put the fare, I am blocking 1 lane of traffic while a large group of people who just got off another bus want to come on are now waiting in the rain.

- people who wait at the bus stop to ask for directions. Yes there are people who do not want to take the bus, but wait at the stop for a bus to come and ask for directions. So I pull the bus into the stop for nothing.

- people who want the first bus. Yes, even when my bus is full people still force their way on even though there is another bus you can see is behind me with seats available. Some how they think I would be faster because I'm the first one.

- Those who complain that they have been waiting. I understand you have been waiting, but I am not at fault. Sometimes the bus in front is broken down and I manage to stay on time and I still get an earful.

- people who ask me what time a bus on a different route is coming. I am not a schedule. I do not have the entire systems schedule memorized. Sometimes the schedule is posted on the pole at the stop, have a look at it.

- people who want directions and stick a map in front of my face while I am driving. Are you crazy?

These are only some of the examples, I'll tell everyone some more some other time.

Awesome!

:thumbsup:

Glad to know that dealing with the public always has its fair share of stupid people.

[Gridlock]

We bitch about Translink, and its cost and some of the stupid decisions made on its behalf, but think for a second about the stupid fucks the drivers need to deal with.

I feel for you man, I can only imagine what your customers do to you on a daily basis. Think about how many cracked out wackos take the bus.

[tiger_handheld]

nataku - given your experience as a transit employee, how would you improve the system?

[nataku]

nataku - given your experience as a transit employee, how would you improve the system?


Well, first I would stop spending money I don't have and start spending the money I do have wisely. The bus is the most underfunded sub company of the Translink family. They should pay for existing projects before commiting to new ones. The company is millions or billions of dollars in the shit yet they still want to build the evergreen line. When they are short on money what do they look at first? Raising property taxes or fuel taxes. You know what I think? If they want to build the evergreen line through taxes, they should raise the property taxes of that municipality. I for one would not travel that far on the train often. If you take it often you should be the one to pay a higher price for it because you wanted it. The canada line is a joke. We transit employees and our families were the first to ride it on the soft run. We asked them why the stations are so small and why are there only two cars per train. They told us that was what they thought was enough capacity. We all started laughing at them said this was not going to work. I told them to think about it logically. You get rid of the 98 b-line which is already packed during the morning and afternoon rush. So people downtown have to ride the train with people on the major streets along cambie? They said It would be ok. It ended up being crap during and after the olympics. The one thing that would make the most change for the better is to stop allowing people who do not take transit to to run things and start listening to those who ride and operate the system to start making some suggestions.

I also believe a way to improve the bus service is to not put a stop every 2 blocks. If you can see the next stop, it is close enough for you to walk. I got more senarios but well leave those till later.

[nataku]

One of the things I would like to see, is public education on how to ride the system properly. It is sad but true. People don't know how to ride the system with courtesy to others.

An example would be talking on the phone on the bus. I can't do it while driving, why should those sitting or standing be allowed to? People do not need to be on the phone for anymore than 4min for something important. Say what you need and get off of it. Sitting next to a person squaking about how their hair looks like today is just useless and I don't want to hear it. People need to get off the goddamn phone. When did the phone become so important that the rest of the world doesn't matter. I had a passenger ask to be told when we arrived at main street. When we go there I announced it. I see this person is on the phone and I announce again main street over the P.A, Finally on more time I yelled main street! person is still on the phone. I said screw it and left. By the time I was near UBC that person on the comes and says where is main street, I said we have passed it quite a while ago.This person starts to yell and scream at me. She says she is late for a hair appointment because of me and that I should be fired for such lousy service. I felt enough is enough. I told her it was her fault as I did announce the stop 3 times and she missed it because she was on her phone. She tells me it was because she can't decide what style she wants and was getting suggestions. I told her I give less than a shit about what the call was about, she should be paying attention. She continues the yelling. I dropped her off and told her to take a bus back the other way to main street. She complained and I had a meeting with my managers. She won't be riding my bus again.

[twitchyzero]

so just to play devils advocate, would everyone in here be happy IF translink was gone and no public transportation were in place until another company comes in?

people complain and complain, but they won't appreciate it until its gone.obviously shit service is better than no service. :rolleyes:


For example if you take the bus going east on 41st, when you arrive at Victoria there is a stop at both sides. Why does there need to be a stop at both sides?
I agree..so it's poor planning on CoV/translink's part for having 2 stops at 1 intersection.


- Not moving toward the back of the bus. This is a problem. There is room in the back, but no one moves. The bus is so long the driver cannot possibly see how much room there is. I stand out of my seat to check and then ask everyone to move back. Of course there is one fool who is standing in the middle with their Ipod on full blast and cannot care what else is happening to the world around him.

yeah this is the most annoying thing about taking the bus. I dont know if you noticed this but the back of the newer buses don't have bars running all the way to the back so that's why it seems like they cant fit as many people as the older buses. i notice these little things cause i take the bus 6 days a week.


- people who want the first bus. Yes, even when my bus is full people still force their way on even though there is another bus you can see is behind me with seats available. Some how they think I would be faster because I'm the first one.

most likely because the bus before of you was full/never came? I'd be trying to force myself on to the bus if i was already 10 min late for work. Also, what if the bus you were driving was out to say UBC instead of dunbar..of course people would want to take your bus. Oh yeah, you guys needs to adopt entrance from back doors as well for those with pre-paid passes if you want to speed things up.

- Those who complain that they have been waiting. I understand you have been waiting, but I am not at fault. Sometimes the bus in front is broken down and I manage to stay on time and I still get an earful.
yeah im sure it totally sucks. Even if you are not at fault, you are a representative of Translink so of course you are going to get the unwelcoming comments/criticism. I'm sure you signed up for your position knowing it involves customer service skills. but how else would translink recieve feedback from the riders? I seriously doubt the feedback they get from their hotline/website are taken seriously. It isn't out of this world for bus drivers to be advocates for improving the system.


- people who ask me what time a bus on a different route is coming. I am not a schedule. I do not have the entire systems schedule memorized. Sometimes the schedule is posted on the pole at the stop, have a look at it.

majority of the stops dont have the schedule info. If it's on there..many times it's outdated. Majority of the riders dont know you can call the hotline to find the schedule info though.

I can understand that being a bus driver is a pretty stressful/tedious job. I think you guys are the ones that can totally make/break someone'sday. You can be nice and cheer someone up or give riders attitude and let them have a bad start to their long day. Regardless I think it will be more beneficial for Translink to have regular surveyors/planners figure out what needs more services/support. I think majority of the riders are unsatisfied because of the unreliable service and the increase hikes in fees when many don't see the improvements in service.

[insomniac]

They fucking need more busses in certain streets. I always wait for certaain busses for at least 15 minutes
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[illicitstylz]

When did the phone become so important that the rest of the world doesn't matter. I had a passenger ask to be told when we arrived at main street. When we go there I announced it. I see this person is on the phone and I announce again main street over the P.A, Finally on more time I yelled main street! person is still on the phone. I said screw it and left. By the time I was near UBC that person on the comes and says where is main street, I said we have passed it quite a while ago.This person starts to yell and scream at me. She says she is late for a hair appointment because of me and that I should be fired for such lousy service. I felt enough is enough. I told her it was her fault as I did announce the stop 3 times and she missed it because she was on her phone. She tells me it was because she can't decide what style she wants and was getting suggestions. I told her I give less than a shit about what the call was about, she should be paying attention. She continues the yelling. I dropped her off and told her to take a bus back the other way to main street. She complained and I had a meeting with my managers. She won't be riding my bus again.


Best story ever. Laughed out loud in my office at work.

[Rogue951]

yeah im sure it totally sucks. Even if you are not at fault, you are a representative of Translink so of course you are going to get the unwelcoming comments/criticism. but how else would translink recieve feedback from the riders? I seriously doubt the feedback they get from their hotline/website are taken seriously. It isn't out of this world for bus drivers to be advocates for improving the system.


Complaining to the driver does nothing. Driver does not pass on complaints. (ok maybe the odd one does but we're talking less than 1%)



I can understand that being a bus driver is a pretty stressful/tedious job. But I think it will be more beneficial for Translink to have regular surveyors/planners figure out what needs more services/support. I think majority of the riders are unsatisfied because of the unreliable service and the increase hikes in fees when many don't see the improvements in service.

- another point to consider with irregular service is city construction. This is not taken into account when the planners set the sched for a particular term. ( sched is adjusted 4 times a year) Because the construction is temporary they cannot change the sched for more frequent buses for 2 weeks and revert back to regular after. Yes there are reroutes and stop bulletins but those don't change the drive time.

- If the bus has ever left when you're running and you just get to the door, next time you're on the bus and see it happening, watch the drivers head. If the door is closing/has closed, they're looking left, to pull into traffic, not for more passengers.
If you miss the bus, you miss the bus, too bad. Do you scream and yell at the skytrain when the doors close half a step from you getting on? no.
Waiting those extra few seconds for that runner can end in a snowball effect delaying that bus minutes. (missing the light, more runners after the first etc.)


The system is light-years away from a perfect system but those who complain need to take a look at the flip side first sometimes.

[nack]

@ Nataku

just putting this out there, but you should put on Revscene stickers on the side of your bus :)

[Alby]

all this complaining about translink boils down to one point.

you wanting better service basically means more money coming out of tax payers money. are you willing to pay?

[nataku]

obviously shit service is better than no service. :rolleyes:


I agree..so it's poor planning on CoV/translink's part for having 2 stops at 1 intersection.


yeah this is the most annoying thing about taking the bus. I dont know if you noticed this but the back of the newer buses don't have bars running all the way to the back so that's why it seems like they cant fit as many people as the older buses.


most likely because the bus before of you never came? I'd be trying to force myself on to the bus if i was already 10 min late for work. Also, what if the bus you were driving was out to say UBC instead of dunbar..of course people would want to take your bus.


yeah im sure it totally sucks. Even if you are not at fault, you are a representative of Translink so of course you are going to get the unwelcoming comments/criticism. but how else would translink recieve feedback from the riders? I seriously doubt the feedback they get from their hotline/website are taken seriously. It isn't out of this world for bus drivers to be advocates for improving the system.



majority of the stops dont have the schedule info. If it's on there..many times it's outdated. Majority of the riders dont know you can call the hotline to find the schedule info though.



I can understand that being a bus driver is a pretty stressful/tedious job. But I think it will be more beneficial for Translink to have regular surveyors/planners figure out what needs more services/support. I think majority of the riders are unsatisfied because of the unreliable service and the increase hikes in fees when many don't see the improvements in service.



Translink does not take anyone seriously. Including their own. Yelling at the driver doesn't do anything but make us upset. I ride the bus and drive it. I know too well
how the public feels. But just because I am late doesn't mean I want to be. It is not in my best interest to be late. If the skytrain is late you don't see people yelling that the train themselves do you? Them system is pretty much automated except the Buses, Some drivers are assholes, I don't deny this fact. Most like myself do try our best everyday. I do not pull out of the stop and cut people off in their cars. I wait for people who are running to catch me, within reason of course. If you are across the street I'm not gonna wait and delay everyone else just for you. If you forgot your pass and it is night I will help you getting home, shit happens I know. You forget your pass and you are going somewhere else other than home? bite me.

I agree, they should release a free app that shows you a system wide schedule. I have suggested it months ago. Waiting to see what happens.

Service can be more reliable but lets be honest, they work like a dog. These vehicles are on the road most of the day. I pick up my bus in the morning at 5am and It does not come back to the yard until 1am. that is a lot of stop and go driving the bus takes. The old trolleys did this for nearly 30 years before they were replaced. The new buses are so far so good. If you consider the mileage a bus puts on in its life time and the amount of times it breaks down, its pretty reliable. The skytrain is not bad either. the only things I know that would stop a train is if there is a power out, a person jump onto the track or the trains senses a problem on itself. The trains are serviced everyday to ensure reliability and safety. There is a small 2 man car that runs along the track doing maintenance while the skytrain is shut down.


So the public wants to know why there is less bus service on the weekends and the train stops running so early? Its because that is maintenance time. These things don't fix themselves!

[Alby]

hey nataku, do you work out of VTC? if so, do you ever bring in the bus after 4:30pm to the yard? if so i may have serviced your bus before as a farebox attendant :)

[nataku]

@ Nataku

just putting this out there, but you should put on Revscene stickers on the side of your bus :)


Hey, that's a good idea. I think I will! HA HA

[nataku]

hey nataku, do you work out of VTC? if so, do you ever bring in the bus after 4:30pm to the yard? if so i may have serviced your bus before as a farebox attendant :)

No dude. I'm over at BTC. I moved before they relocated to VTC. I miss OTC :(

[tiger_handheld]

translink needs a 911/411 style number for schedule updates.

ie.

dial 711
enter stop code
press 1 for # 320
press 2 for # 19
1
next bus is at 8:40am , 9:00am, 9:30am.

not everyone has a schedule, and not everyone knows how to text.
8/10 people have a cell phone but does not know the translink # to call for assistance.

[Vansterdam]

On a snowy day in 2008 I was waiting for the bus at commercial drive. The busses couldn't make it up the victoria drive hill. Had to walk from there all the way to knight and 49th in snow up to my ankles .. Sucked big time.
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dude i think i was on the same bus as you LOL

did the bus break down at 12th/commercial? around 645-8am?

[Vansterdam]

translink needs a 911/411 style number for schedule updates.

ie.

dial 711
enter stop code
press 1 for # 320
press 2 for # 19
1
next bus is at 8:40am , 9:00am, 9:30am.

not everyone has a schedule, and not everyone knows how to text.
8/10 people have a cell phone but does not know the translink # to call for assistance.


you must be retarded to not see the 604-953-3333 number posted on EVERY busstop

although alot of people donno about the press "0" to talk to operator, or press 1 and then 1 and then dial the 5/ digit code for your stop , now thats annoying lol

[jeedee]

They fucking need more busses in certain streets. I always wait for certaain busses for at least 15 minutes
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Waiting 15 minutes for a bus is nothing...try missing a bus by a couple of seconds and waiting at the skytrain for 30 minutes for the next one....

For the discussion about "people not moving to the back of the bus" is the fact people have a paranoia that they won't get off the bus [to their destination]; resulting them in standing by the back door area.

It's also because, when your on the 20 Victoria/Downtown bus for an example, when it gets super packed, the bus driver will often forget to open the back BACK door... making you scream "BACK DOOR BACK DOOR" and everyone staring at you.

Also a big thumbsup to TransLink for implementing the Articulated buses for the 49UBC buses in the morning :thumbsup:

[Rogue951]

Also a big thumbsup to TransLink for implementing the "accordian buses" for the 49UBC buses in the morning :thumbsup:

Articulated buses.

[anti_rice]

It's also because, when your on the 20 Victoria/Downtown bus for an example, when it gets super packed, the bus driver will often forget to open the back BACK door... making you scream "BACK DOOR BACK DOOR" and everyone staring at you.


No ppl who scream "back door" are ppl who are too dumb to activate the back door. The so called. "Back back door" is activated with the middle doors.
So if the middle door is open then the back door should open. Impatient ppl are the ones who can't activate the new doors. Try waiting for the green light to come on before putting ur hand near it. If u try touching it before the green light comes on the sensor won't pick up ur motion. You don't even have to touch anything. Just wave your hand near the area that says "touch here"
It says "touch here" for a reason. So slapping it. Banging it and any other methods used won't work.
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[spades]

Do you know what really grinds my gears... Translink. That is all.
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[jeedee]

No ppl who scream "back door" are ppl who are too dumb to activate the back door. The so called. "Back back door" is activated with the middle doors.
So if the middle door is open then the back door should open. Impatient ppl are the ones who can't activate the new doors. Try waiting for the green light to come on before putting ur hand near it. If u try touching it before the green light comes on the sensor won't pick up ur motion. You don't even have to touch anything. Just wave your hand near the area that says "touch here"
It says "touch here" for a reason. So slapping it. Banging it and any other methods used won't work.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

Not necessarily... don't forget, bus drivers are human, not robots. There's always a chance they will forget to open up the back doors, and someone will scream "back door".

Same thing can happen on the 20 buses aswell, bus driver forgets to open the back doors, and when you yell "back door" you won't even be heard from all the way in the back..

Just from my experiences for 3 years with the 20 bus, never has happened to me though.

[Oleophobic]

No ppl who scream "back door" are ppl who are too dumb to activate the back door. The so called. "Back back door" is activated with the middle doors.
So if the middle door is open then the back door should open. Impatient ppl are the ones who can't activate the new doors. Try waiting for the green light to come on before putting ur hand near it. If u try touching it before the green light comes on the sensor won't pick up ur motion. You don't even have to touch anything. Just wave your hand near the area that says "touch here"
It says "touch here" for a reason. So slapping it. Banging it and any other methods used won't work.
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

On some buses the sensors aren't working properly and just waving your hand doesn't do anything (I've tested this) and you have to push. It's strange and rare but it has happened before. Luckily I know how it works and so if merely touching/waving doesn't result in a response I push.

And btw the green light only comes on when the bus drivers allows it to, so you have times when the bus driver forgets to turn that on and there's nothing you can do to open the door except to yell.

Other than that, yes I agree most times the passengers are retarded.

[misteranswer]

The best times on the bus are when the 145 going down from SFU accidentally turn off to head down Burnaby Mountain Parkway instead and then U-Turns back up. That was fun.

[Rogue951]

Ummmmm pushing on doors with the sonic sensors will NOT open them. If they open when u push it's cause the sensors finally tripped. A closed door will not open by force.
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[bcrdukes]

My only gripe with Translink are the idiot riders.

[anti_rice]

Let me educate some people on the back doors.

The green light on the top of the rear doors only comes on when the driver activates the door. When the new back doors came into effect on the new buses there were alot of issues with people not able to open the doors. So i decided to see what's up with it.
Is it driver error or passenger error? I can tell you it's 95% PASSENGER error. The only error that the driver can make that will screw up the functions of the back door is if the driver doesn't activate it at all or if they activate it before the bus comes to a complete stop. (green light will not come on in both events)
Errors passengers make:
The biggest reason why doors don't open properly is plain and simple. Passengers are impatient. You see passengers start banging on the back door before the driver even comes to a stop. Do you plan on doing the tuck and roll? if not then maybe wait till the bus stops. Old chinese ladies are slapping the back door like they are dusting off a carpet doesn't help with door operations either.

IF the GREEN LIGHT is on then that means the driver did everything right and the door SHOULD open. There is no fault on the drivers part if the green light is on. Whatever happens next is up to the passenger. If you put your hands where you are suppose to and the door doesn't open then it means that someone or something was in the sensor zone when the driver activated the door. When that happens the sensor thinks whatever is in the area was always there and therefore the door will not open. That is why i said earlier in this thread to wait for the green light before going near the door. look down there's an area painted yellow. Stay away from there. It's the sensor zone. If the door doesn't open the first time. STAND BACK wait and approach the door again. Yelling "BACK DOOR" isn't going to help the situation. We will just look at you and shake our head cuz all that goes thru our mind is "dumbass"

There is only 2 area that your hand should be when trying to open the door. right on top of the sticker on either door that says "TOUCH HERE". Not to the left of it...not to the right of it.. and NOT BETWEEN IT. when you hear a ringing sound go off as you touch the door. YOU ARE DOING IT WRONG! The ringing tells the driver there's an idiot trying to open the door. The door has feelings. DO NOT slap it, hit it, bang it and touch it in the wrong areas. It's sensitive and will only open to those who TOUCH it nicely.

People complain that drivers close the back door on people. let me make things clear.
The driver DOES NOT OPEN or CLOSE the doors. Unless it's the 99 bline then the driver does OPEN the door and only open. It closes like any other bus. Drivers only unlocks the door. The door closes on a timer. If no one exits the door within 3 seconds the doors will start to close. You have to trip the sensors again for it to rebound open.

Hope this clears up all the "BACK DOOR BACK DOOR" problems.

[illicitstylz]

Let me educate some people on the back doors.



Hope this clears up all the "BACK DOOR BACK DOOR" problems.

Well it didn't clear up the problems completely, how do I get her to say "yes" though? :troll:
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[taucool]

one time.. I was on the bus, and this girl kept screaming "back door, back door" "DRIVER!!!!!!!!!! back door" and kept trying to push the doors open. someone had to tell her, uhhh, we aren't at a stop yet. hahah

[jeedee]

one time.. I was on the bus, and this girl kept screaming "back door, back door" "DRIVER!!!!!!!!!! back door" and kept trying to push the doors open. someone had to tell her, uhhh, we aren't at a stop yet. hahah

LOL yeah, I see that alot on the bus

[JqC]

Let me educate some people on the back doors.

Hope this clears up all the "BACK DOOR BACK DOOR" problems.

Well it didn't clear up the problems completely, how do I get her to say "yes" though? :troll:
Posted via RS Mobile (http://www.revscene.net/forums/announcement.php?a=228)

You don't. Cause that's unimportant. :troll:

[OTG-ZR2]

I was on the bus going to high school, already late for finals... and the bus t-bones this c-lai making a left turn. :fuuuuu:

on a side note buses don't get damaged easily... the whole side of the mini van was crunched bad and only some scrapes on the bumper of the bus.

[AzNightmare]

Shouting back door isn't all loss.
If a door closes, the bus driver might take off.
Shouting back door may not exactly help get the door open, but at least
it indirectly alerts the driver more people still need to get out.

And when the bus is packed with idiots (that don't need to get off)
standing by the doors blocking everyone, it's possible that the doors may close before everyone can get out.

[l2_narain]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/Vancouver_BC_bus.jpg

good old Vancouver.

[Ikkaku]

Lol I remember this one time taking 43 express bus back from Joyce station, this one guy just took it because it was convenient. He didn't understand the meaning of an express bus and totally bitched out the driver when he wouldn't stop for him at the stop after Victoria. The bus driver kept saying "sir, this is the express bus, next stop is knight street" and the guy kept yelling fuck you stop the damn bus! It was funny seeing the guy slowly walking up back towards Victoria :lol
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[Alby]

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/7/7a/Vancouver_BC_bus.jpg

good old Vancouver.

i remember working on those buses. 2 co workers of mine got a nice jolt from a "hot coach". luckily they only got minor injuries. that thing can zap you at 600volts.

[goo3]

i agree stupid passengers are the problem, esp the ones who think transit is a limo service

[jeedee]

Some guy is talking to himself/making funny sounds on the bus right now LOLO

Transit fact: there's always atleast one crackhead on every bus!L
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[hotjoint]

I've never had any trouble with translink other then the fact that we're getting ripped off, I'm good :)

[illicitstylz]

I hate having to pay for the Upass when I never use it.

[Lomac]

I remembered back in the day when they took some of the routes the major buses took in South Langley and replaced them with C-Line buses. The C-Line had an even more infrequent pickup schedule (once an hour vs twice an hour) and because there were usually very little passengers to pick up, they passed by their stops often 10-15 minutes before the estimated time stated by the schedule. I had to take these buses after I wrote off my car and make my way to Commercial/Venables. Because of the way the bus schedule worked, if I missed the first C-Line bus, I'd not only have to wait another hour before the next one showed up, but then I'd have to wait an extra 30 minutes once I hit the Langley station before the next bus to Surrey Central left. If I ever came across that, I simply called in to work to tell 'em I wasn't coming in. A trip that would take me just a little over an hour to drive would end up taking 2.5 hours on transit, and that's on a good day where I managed to get onto every single bus on time.

Admittedly it's gotten better since then, but it was such a horrible enough experience that I've avoided transit as much as possible.

[trd2343]

edit: I'm really outdated :eek1: it already came to light in May
I don't know if it has been mentioned yet (didn't see any threads about this), but Translink is implementing the smart card system like London and HK. This was featured on today's 24.

They are taking submissions for name of the new system, and the winner gets an iPad.

[Ikkaku]

lets call it: itsaboutfuckingtime

[CRS]

http://www.translink.ca/contest

Link to the contest.

Already submitted Orca and Canuck Card.

Sorry boys, time to think up a new card name.

[misteranswer]

http://www.translink.ca/contest

Link to the contest.

Already submitted Orca and Canuck Card.

Sorry boys, time to think up a new card name.

I'm sure thousands are going to say Orca card and they're just going to draw from the pool.

[Rogue951]

Orca card already exists so I doubt they'll use it. Esp when its close to us. (geographically)

http://www.orcacard.com/ERG-Seattle/p1_001.do

[CRS]

I'm sure thousands are going to say Orca card and they're just going to draw from the pool.

:lol

I know that was probably the case as well.

Submitted Terry Fox card as well.

[Lomac]

:lol

I know that was probably the case as well.

Submitted Terry Fox card as well.

:lol

Was going to suggest that one. Yay Jeff O'Neil Show!

[hypediss]

named it VTECH <<

Vancouver Transportation Expense Charge Holder

>>

[goo3]

Orca card already exists so I doubt they'll use it. Esp when its close to us. (geographically)

http://www.orcacard.com/ERG-Seattle/p1_001.do

Vancouver, Washington existed before us too and nobody seemed to give a shit.

[Tapioca]

all this complaining about translink boils down to one point.

you wanting better service basically means more money coming out of tax payers money. are you willing to pay?

While more money would go a long way, it's not just money. There are other factors at play: "car culture", density, where jobs are concentrated, etc.

People look at other systems like Paris, Hong Kong, Tokyo, etc. and think, "Why can't we have service like that here?" People tend to become fixated on things like management salaries, when really, they're just a very small part of the problem. If we want better transit, we have to make difficult choices with respect to how we live, where we work, and how much we're willing to pay for service.

[jmvdesign]

http://www.translink.ca/contest

Link to the contest.

Already submitted Orca and Canuck Card.

Sorry boys, time to think up a new card name.

Orca and Canuck is a pretty obvious choice. I submitted "Echo Card" as orcas and other mammals use "echolocation" for navigation.

[Peanut Butter Jelly Time!]

Just wanted to give props to the Canada Line attendants for their fast response.

There was some issues w/ one guy saying that another guy was filming up a girl's skirt. The Canada Line approached the first station too fast for someone to respond, but right at the next station an attendant appeared to escort the witnesses, accused, accuser and victim off the train.

So, yeah the silent alarm does work.

[Girl]

So today the skytrain had some street person wearing Chanel No 5 which covered the usual piss smells.

The 41 bus to Joyce station likes to not stop for me.

[Gt-R R34]

took the Canada Line on Tuesday, for all you students. BE GOD DAMN more COURTEOUS and more bloody attentive.

Some indo-canadian family with 2 kids less then 6 and a stroller needed room to get everyone in during rush hour. Everyone moved except for this asian full of pimple 18 year old. The lady said excuses me at least 3 times and he still ignored her. Door was bout to shut and the stroller wasn't half in the train. I had enough, i took his backpack, yanked it pretty hard, to pull him back, he turns his head and smokes it into that centre yellow 4 pillar bar. And told him, be more fucking courteous to people.

lesson learn kid. BE COURTEOUS.

[twitchyzero]

so yeah...do the buses finally have winter tires this time 'round?

[Culverin]

lols, oh yeah, i never really thought about that.
I always just assumed busses suck in the snow.

But we get way less snow than elsewhere.

I wonder how much translink saves by leaving all seasons on the busses?

[Rogue951]

so yeah...do the buses finally have winter tires this time 'round?

Vancouver buses will NEVER get winter tires.
It's not worth the money.
We don't get enough snow.
City has to plow enough for buses to get through.

[palepilsenpin0y]

took the Canada Line on Tuesday, for all you students. BE GOD DAMN more COURTEOUS and more bloody attentive.

Some indo-canadian family with 2 kids less then 6 and a stroller needed room to get everyone in during rush hour. Everyone moved except for this asian full of pimple 18 year old. The lady said excuses me at least 3 times and he still ignored her. Door was bout to shut and the stroller wasn't half in the train. I had enough, i took his backpack, yanked it pretty hard, to pull him back, he turns his head and smokes it into that centre yellow 4 pillar bar. And told him, be more fucking courteous to people.

lesson learn kid. BE COURTEOUS.

BRAVO! :clap:

Good job man, ignorant pricks like those deserve to be taught a lesson.

So today the skytrain had some street person wearing Chanel No 5 which covered the usual piss smells.

The 41 bus to Joyce station likes to not stop for me.

I take the 41 almost everyday. They're a pain in the ass a lot of the time :banghead:

[hotjoint]

took the Canada Line on Tuesday, for all you students. BE GOD DAMN more COURTEOUS and more bloody attentive.

Some indo-canadian family with 2 kids less then 6 and a stroller needed room to get everyone in during rush hour. Everyone moved except for this asian full of pimple 18 year old. The lady said excuses me at least 3 times and he still ignored her. Door was bout to shut and the stroller wasn't half in the train. I had enough, i took his backpack, yanked it pretty hard, to pull him back, he turns his head and smokes it into that centre yellow 4 pillar bar. And told him, be more fucking courteous to people.

lesson learn kid. BE COURTEOUS.

good job :thumbsup:

[Not really racist!]

I hate mother fuckers that never move to the back of the bus. Pushes my buttons when people are denied onto the bus when its PISSING rain. Fuckers, yelling "MOVE TO THE BACK OF THE BUS" doesn't help either. You'll get off the fucking bus no matter where you are DAMMIT

Some people just don't get it :facepalm:

[Phat_R]

Translink is a bloated bureaucracy that needs to DIE

[BlacknJean]

took the Canada Line on Tuesday, for all you students. BE GOD DAMN more COURTEOUS and more bloody attentive.

Some indo-canadian family with 2 kids less then 6 and a stroller needed room to get everyone in during rush hour. Everyone moved except for this asian full of pimple 18 year old. The lady said excuses me at least 3 times and he still ignored her. Door was bout to shut and the stroller wasn't half in the train. I had enough, i took his backpack, yanked it pretty hard, to pull him back, he turns his head and smokes it into that centre yellow 4 pillar bar. And told him, be more fucking courteous to people.

lesson learn kid. BE COURTEOUS.

uhh no, maybe the god damn family should be more courteous since its a god damn rush hour! WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU BRINGING A GOD DAMN STROLLER DURING RUSH HOUR?!!!


this is so inconvenient since the old people had to get up and move back again and ppl had to get up and give them the normal seats. THESE god damn indian and flip immigrants always do that. sometimes they even bring two strollers on during rush hour. WTF FUCK YO BABIES! IMMA THROW YO KID THRU THE WINDOW!

[twitchyzero]

Is it unethical to enter from the backdoor if the bus is full and the next one won't come for 'nother 30 minutes and it's pissing rain?

[hotjoint]

Is it unethical to enter from the backdoor if the bus is full and the next one won't come for 'nother 30 minutes and it's pissing rain?

No, I see alot of people doing that

[Mr.HappySilp]

took the Canada Line on Tuesday, for all you students. BE GOD DAMN more COURTEOUS and more bloody attentive.

Some indo-canadian family with 2 kids less then 6 and a stroller needed room to get everyone in during rush hour. Everyone moved except for this asian full of pimple 18 year old. The lady said excuses me at least 3 times and he still ignored her. Door was bout to shut and the stroller wasn't half in the train. I had enough, i took his backpack, yanked it pretty hard, to pull him back, he turns his head and smokes it into that centre yellow 4 pillar bar. And told him, be more fucking courteous to people.

lesson learn kid. BE COURTEOUS.

UMMM no is rush hour that means a lot of ppl are going to work. Have you check out Boardway during rush hour? Most ppl have to wait 2 to 3 trains. So here comes a family with a stroller trying to push her way in. I am sorry but there is barely enough room to fit another person yet you want to shovel your god damma stroller in? Don't fucking use a stroller or take the skytrain earlier or a bit after the rush hour. So many times I seen ppl trying to push their strollers in and can't, train door close so because of your actions you can't get in and you wasted a good spot for 4 to 6 ppl to get in.

If you want to use a stroller during rush hour be prepare to wait for a long time coz most of the time there isn't enough room to fit one in. Also don't expect anyone to give up their spots for you since most ppl have to wait a few trains to get on. Instead take the skytrain like 20 to 30mins before the rush or after. If you are not being COURTEOUS by using your strollers and taking room good for 5 to 6 ppl to get on why should ppl be COURTEOUS to you? Again is rush hour ppl needs to go to work/school on time.

Happen to me once Sytrain was full and I mean everyone is pack to a point where you can't even move and comes a family with their strollers trying to push their way in. Some guy just start swearing at them telling them there is no more room and stop pushing their strollers over his shoes.

Now I like to see how the skytrain and bus will run this winter. Doesn't look like they are too prepare. Lucky for me I already plan other ways to get to work if the Skytrain is not working as it should (which 99% it will) during this winter.

[BlacknJean]

I absolutely hated taking the bus to Langara a few years back during the winter. I'm always late for my morning classes, the damn pole keeps falling off, everyone stinks in the bus, driver either did not turn on the heater or turn it too damn high, everyones packed like canned tuna, and by the time you get to your class, you're so burnt out you just dont give a fuck anymore.

[Mr.HappySilp]

O and don't yell at ppl for not taking off their backpacks. Coz you know sometimes we have our laptops, ipads..... in it and if we put it on the floor, someone kick it and it broke then who is going to pay for the repairs or get a new one? Pretty sure transitlink won't, the person who kick it won't so yea.

When I carry a backpack to work 90% of the time I have a laptop in it and I will not put it on the floor for it to get damage.

I always try to avoid the rush hours even though I work 9 to 5. I get to the skytrain 20mins earlier and leave work 30mins later. That way even if I miss a few Skytrain I will still be on time.

[murmur]

anyone just took the skytrain at 9:20pm (westbound - expo line)?

holy shit there was a 25 minutes delay
even if the announcer keep insisting the service is resumed
the train didn't even move a damn inch. :facepalm:

usually it takes 1 hour for me to get home from sfu.
it took me 2 hours to get home :(

what was the worst delay for you guys?

[nack]

couple days ago...


...downtown, with crowds reaching mosh pit status

[terkan]

uhh no, maybe the god damn family should be more courteous since its a god damn rush hour! WHY THE FUCK ARE YOU BRINGING A GOD DAMN STROLLER DURING RUSH HOUR?!!!


this is so inconvenient since the old people had to get up and move back again and ppl had to get up and give them the normal seats. THESE god damn indian and flip immigrants always do that. sometimes they even bring two strollers on during rush hour. WTF FUCK YO BABIES! IMMA THROW YO KID THRU THE WINDOW!

Totally agreed. There was this retarded fruitcake on a wheelchair (long haired speaks like a girl but is a dude), forced 30 people to get off the 99 at cambie so that he could get on, and just because he didn't have 2 feet of personal space around his "wheelchair area" he refused to get on after the bus driver grudgingly kicked off 30 people to give him room to come on. Wasted everyone's fucking time. Just because you're crippled doesn't mean the whole fucking world owes you. They give you common courtesy because they feel sorry for you, they don't owe you shit.

[Alphamale]

O and don't yell at ppl for not taking off their backpacks. Coz you know sometimes we have our laptops, ipads..... in it and if we put it on the floor, someone kick it and it broke then who is going to pay for the repairs or get a new one? Pretty sure transitlink won't, the person who kick it won't so yea.

When I carry a backpack to work 90% of the time I have a laptop in it and I will not put it on the floor for it to get damage.


You are retarded.

No, I see alot of people doing that

...and because other people do it, it's okay, right?

[yuusha]

I hate kids on transit.

I don't want your snot-nosed brats jumping up and down like a baboon on the seat beside me and running up and down the aisle. I don't want the musical chairs that ensues upon your fucking stroller entering the bus. I don't want to hear your baby crying at the top of its lungs because it's pouring rain and yet you decided to bring it along with you on your crack run and you forgot to bring its bottle.

But more than that, I hate their mothers who bring their children onto the bus instead of finding a babysitter or driving. Entire fucking families of these pests.

[stylez2k4]

O and don't yell at ppl for not taking off their backpacks. Coz you know sometimes we have our laptops, ipads..... in it and if we put it on the floor, someone kick it and it broke then who is going to pay for the repairs or get a new one? Pretty sure transitlink won't, the person who kick it won't so yea.

When I carry a backpack to work 90% of the time I have a laptop in it and I will not put it on the floor for it to get damage.

I always try to avoid the rush hours even though I work 9 to 5. I get to the skytrain 20mins earlier and leave work 30mins later. That way even if I miss a few Skytrain I will still be on time.

You know you can take your bag off your back and hold it with your hand right you bloody idiot

[jeedee]

O and don't yell at ppl for not taking off their backpacks. Coz you know sometimes we have our laptops, ipads..... in it and if we put it on the floor, someone kick it and it broke then who is going to pay for the repairs or get a new one? Pretty sure transitlink won't, the person who kick it won't so yea.

When I carry a backpack to work 90% of the time I have a laptop in it and I will not put it on the floor for it to get damage.

Thats why they make laptop bags for a reason..if you don't want your laptop/ipad to be broken, get a laptap bag. You can hold it by your side instead of wearing it on your back and taking up alot of space...


what was the worst delay for you guys?

Worst delay for me...last year. Apparently someone committed suicide/jumped on the tracks at Stadium station causing delays. This was around rush hour [so after school; 3PM] and huge lineups. Took me 2 hours just to get on a goddamn train

[twitchyzero]

i wear my backpack in front of me...usually not an issue unless you wanna be right up in my face (less than a foot away). The ground is very dirty especially when it's raining/snowing out.

only time i would take it off is when i'm on the skytrain or 99 b-line during rush hour and everyone PACKS right in.

[twitchyzero]

I hate kids on transit.

I don't want your snot-nosed brats jumping up and down like a baboon on the seat beside me and running up and down the aisle. I don't want the musical chairs that ensues upon your fucking stroller entering the bus. I don't want to hear your baby crying at the top of its lungs because it's pouring rain and yet you decided to bring it along with you on your crack run and you forgot to bring its bottle.

But more than that, I hate their mothers who bring their children onto the bus instead of finding a babysitter or driving. Entire fucking families of these pests.

Don't like it? Don't take the bus and just drive. If you can't afford to buy/sustain a car in this city then do you think that single mother has enough money to buy a car too?

[Inaii]

O and don't yell at ppl for not taking off their backpacks. Coz you know sometimes we have our laptops, ipads..... in it and if we put it on the floor, someone kick it and it broke then who is going to pay for the repairs or get a new one? Pretty sure transitlink won't, the person who kick it won't so yea.

When I carry a backpack to work 90% of the time I have a laptop in it and I will not put it on the floor for it to get damage.

I always try to avoid the rush hours even though I work 9 to 5. I get to the skytrain 20mins earlier and leave work 30mins later. That way even if I miss a few Skytrain I will still be on time.

90% of the people who wear their backpacks on the trains DON'T have a laptop in it. They're usually idiot high school or college kids who think they don't have to look out for anyone but themselves. News flash kid, take your pack off or someone will take it off for you.

[anti_rice]

Totally agreed. There was this retarded fruitcake on a wheelchair (long haired speaks like a girl but is a dude), forced 30 people to get off the 99 at cambie so that he could get on, and just because he didn't have 2 feet of personal space around his "wheelchair area" he refused to get on after the bus driver grudgingly kicked off 30 people to give him room to come on. Wasted everyone's fucking time. Just because you're crippled doesn't mean the whole fucking world owes you. They give you common courtesy because they feel sorry for you, they don't owe you shit.

I think i know who you're talking about. Does the person have glasses? if so then it's actually a SHE. She looks like a HE. She is actually banned from transit. She assaults passengers and drivers. She's been gone for a year or so and now she's back causing problems on the 99 bline.

[lgman]

Taking the Victoria 20 bus south from Commercial/broadway. Bus is usually packed rush hour right? So being the biggest guy and near the exits you move out to be courteous. I was helping an elderly lady get off the bus and the fucking guy closes the door on her leg. She trips out and (luckily) I caught her . This point my friend is holding the door open for me and I assist her away from the bus. Then he tries to close the door again. I squeeze back on and I ask him "what is your problem?" he says nothing and guns it with everyone holding on for fucking dear life. FUCK YOU TRANSLINK.

[Fappin]

Took the 20 bus going southbound on the day I had my midterm at school. Bus came 40 minutes late and I ended up being an hour late for class. Ended failing that course and because it was the 2nd midterm I could't drop the course. Lesson learned, don't take the bus on exam day.

[Oleophobic]

Totally agreed. There was this retarded fruitcake on a wheelchair (long haired speaks like a girl but is a dude), forced 30 people to get off the 99 at cambie so that he could get on, and just because he didn't have 2 feet of personal space around his "wheelchair area" he refused to get on after the bus driver grudgingly kicked off 30 people to give him room to come on. Wasted everyone's fucking time. Just because you're crippled doesn't mean the whole fucking world owes you. They give you common courtesy because they feel sorry for you, they don't owe you shit.


are you fucking kidding me? The bus driver actually kicks 10+ people out to make room for 1 guy in a wheelchair?
That's fucking retarded. If I were a passenger that was on the bus already standing near the front because it's packed there's no way in hell I'm getting off and the bus driver can kiss my ass if he think I'm gonna get off.

[twitchyzero]

Took the 20 bus going southbound on the day I had my midterm at school. Bus came 40 minutes late and I ended up being an hour late for class. Ended failing that course and because it was the 2nd midterm I could't drop the course. Lesson learned, don't take the bus on exam day.

you should leave 30 min on exam days if you are bussing

and DON'T BUS to your exams on WEEKENDS...30 minute every bus for 50-60+ students on one route means a lot of people are going to be left behind and fucked for their exams.

[CRS]

you should leave 30 min on exam days if you are bussing

and DON'T BUS to your exams on WEEKENDS...30 minute every bus for 50-60+ students on one route means a lot of people are going to be left behind and fucked for their exams.

This happened today at production.

Lots of people were faaked for their exam or got in super late because of the rotation of buses on weekend.

[Mr.HappySilp]

^^ lol not just weekends or exam days. Even during weekdays I leave 30mins early to catch my bus/ skytrain in case the bus is late or there is delays on the skytrain which happens very frequent.

[Tapioca]

As I ascended the escalators in Burrard Station, I was greeted with people who were handing out "Compass" buttons and dummy passes.

It appears that the new name for the farecard is "Compass". Keep in mind, other more interesting names like Otter and Umbrella were in the running until they were cut out from the final vote unexpectedly.

[Gumby]

Umbrella?! :lol

[ImpactZ]

testosterone levels exceeding capacity in thread

[Greenstoner]

Umbrella coporation is a nice name
http://wiki.urbandead.com/images/4/45/UmbrellaCorporation.jpg

[nack]

^
i see's monster inside le pic O_O

[woob]

It appears that the new name for the farecard is "Compass". Keep in mind, other more interesting names like Otter and Umbrella were in the running until they were cut out from the final vote unexpectedly.

The final names were Compass, Starfish, and TPass:

http://www.straight.com/article-384521/vancouver/compass-picked-winning-name-new-translink-fare-card

[TypeRNammer]

Anyone here currently employed by TransLink?

I believe there was a thread on it before but I can't find it in the search function.

[SoNaRWaVe]

what abouts it?

[TypeRNammer]

what abouts it?

Just in regards to the shuttle and conventional driver jobs, how long the hiring process takes.

[hotjoint]

Just in regards to the shuttle and conventional driver jobs, how long the hiring process takes.

The process itself for conventional bus driver takes roughly 2 1/2 to 3 months to complete. I started the process last April and finished early August because I was away on my honeymoon for 2 weeks in mid June. I've been waiting since August to start training. They've been slacking on their training classes but I have a few friends who are also bus drivers who are keeping me in the loop

[denham]

I applied near the beginning of last year for community shuttle, and I had a video test in September, interview in October, driving test and medical in November, along with a few other small things like references, getting my learners, etc. The last I heard from Translink was the beginning of December. I got in touch with them last week with no response, and I'm going to try them again this week. Just want to see if they have any updates or at least know that I'm still being considered for a position.

[Alby]

Just in regards to the shuttle and conventional driver jobs, how long the hiring process takes.

hiring process doesn't take too long, but the process to be fully hired and working is dead slow. they do everything pretty slow.

[SoNaRWaVe]

the paper work just keeps being passed from department to department if i am not wrong. your testing, interviews, references and all that probably isn't even handled by one person.

[TypeRNammer]

The process itself for conventional bus driver takes roughly 2 1/2 to 3 months to complete. I started the process last April and finished early August because I was away on my honeymoon for 2 weeks in mid June. I've been waiting since August to start training. They've been slacking on their training classes but I have a few friends who are also bus drivers who are keeping me in the loop

I applied near the beginning of last year for community shuttle, and I had a video test in September, interview in October, driving test and medical in November, along with a few other small things like references, getting my learners, etc. The last I heard from Translink was the beginning of December. I got in touch with them last week with no response, and I'm going to try them again this week. Just want to see if they have any updates or at least know that I'm still being considered for a position.

hiring process doesn't take too long, but the process to be fully hired and working is dead slow. they do everything pretty slow.

the paper work just keeps being passed from department to department if i am not wrong. your testing, interviews, references and all that probably isn't even handled by one person.

Awesome thanks for all the details! Yeah had a feeling it's going to be a tedious process from start to finished. I applied for the shuttle driver position back in November and just waiting to see what happens after that.

[Tapioca]

It takes a lot of balls for people on RS to admit that they work for or are seeking employment with Translink.

[SpeedStars]

They also http://i.imgur.com/g25vyt3.gif

[SoNaRWaVe]

it is what it is :okay:

[Alby]

nothing wrong working with Translink, unless you're the person making all the shitty decisions and making the company look bad :lawl:

[stdyfu]

Does anyone know how many to a signature?http://financenot.com/image/images/23.gif http://financenot.com/image/images/51.gif

[SoNaRWaVe]

wot?

[TypeRNammer]

Positions just opened up for the conventional driver position. When I tried applying for this position, I've encountered this message

You have already started or submitted another Transit Operator application.

You can only apply for 1 Transit Operator job opening (Transit Operator Trainee or Community Transit Service Operator Trainee) at a time. Please cancel this application and complete the application already in progress.

If you would like to change your application and apply for a different Transit Operator opening, please let the Employment Services department know if/when you come for an interview.

Because of the fact I applied for the shuttle position and won't be considered for the conventional position?

I'm planning to call their HR department for further clarification.

[Alby]

i believe you are only allowed one application for a transit operator at any given time, whether conventional or shuttle.

[denham]

I'm planning to call their HR department.
If you manage to talk to a real person please let me know what number you dialed and the name of the person you talked to! I appreciate it!

I've been trying to get in touch with them for weeks via email and phone to see if there's any update on my application, with no success. The last I heard from them was the beginning of December, and they said they'd be in touch again soon. It's getting ridiculous. It's simply always answer machine and no response to emails.

After all the time and money I've put out going through this process the least they could do is get back to me with some reassurance that I'm still being considered for a position with their company.

[TypeRNammer]

If you manage to talk to a real person please let me know what number you dialed and the name of the person you talked to! I appreciate it!

I've been trying to get in touch with them for weeks via email and phone to see if there's any update on my application, with no success. The last I heard from them was the beginning of December, and they said they'd be in touch again soon. It's getting ridiculous. It's simply always answer machine and no response to emails.

After all the time and money I've put out going through this process the least they could do is get back to me with some reassurance that I'm still being considered for a position with their company.

This is how I followed with them, I called the general Translink phone number at 604-953-3333 and asked them if they had a contact number that I can reach human resources at Coast Mountain Bus Company.

The phone number that was given to me was 778-375-7500 which directed me to their head office, from then on I was transferred to one of the HR reps.

After speaking to the HR rep about applying for the conventional position, he's gonna speak to one of the IT guys to see if they can over ride my shuttle bus application and put my conventional application as a priority.

It's a tedious process but just have to wait to see what happens when the HR rep follows up with it.

Hopefully that answers your question a bit!

And the rep that I spoke to, his name is Raj.

[hotjoint]

This is how I followed with them, I called the general Translink phone number at 604-953-3333 and asked them if they had a contact number that I can reach human resources at Coast Mountain Bus Company.

The phone number that was given to me was 778-375-7500 which directed me to their head office, from then on I was transferred to one of the HR reps.

After speaking to the HR rep about applying for the conventional position, he's gonna speak to one of the IT guys to see if they can over ride my shuttle bus application and put my conventional application as a priority.

It's a tedious process but just have to wait to see what happens when the HR rep follows up with it.

Hopefully that answers your question a bit!

And the rep that I spoke to, his name is Raj.

Raj Takhar is the person in HR that's keeping in touch with me. I have this direct # but I'm on the waiting list to start training. Are you on the list to start training as well Denham or are you still working your way through their testing/requirements?

[denham]

This is how I followed with them, I called the general Translink phone number at 604-953-3333 and asked them if they had a contact number that I can reach human resources at Coast Mountain Bus Company.

The phone number that was given to me was 778-375-7500 which directed me to their head office, from then on I was transferred to one of the HR reps.

After speaking to the HR rep about applying for the conventional position, he's gonna speak to one of the IT guys to see if they can over ride my shuttle bus application and put my conventional application as a priority.

It's a tedious process but just have to wait to see what happens when the HR rep follows up with it.

Hopefully that answers your question a bit!

And the rep that I spoke to, his name is Raj.
Thanks a lot, that's great. I will follow up and see what I can find out.

hotjoint: I had the video test in September, interview in October, then the driving test and medical and got my class 4 learners, references done, crim record check, etc. That's all finished now and I'm waiting to hear about training.

[SoNaRWaVe]

good luck to you all :) as shitty as a rep that translink has, its really not a bad company to work for.

[meowjinboo]

good luck to you all :) as shitty as a rep that translink has, its really not a bad company to work for.

no really. What gives it off. the insane benefits, the higher than average wage for barely having a skill or the massive vacation hours.

[Lomac]

no really. What gives it off. the insane benefits, the higher than average wage for barely having a skill or the massive vacation hours.

As a bus driver? Not as simple of a job as you may think. The "easy" routes are in high demand, so newer employees are given the shit end of the stick when it comes to routes. I have a couple friends who are bus drivers (both community shuttles and full size buses) and some of the horror stories they've talked about is insane. Let's just say that the amount of times you'll get spat on, sworn at, and threatened at needle point is far higher than you'd ever expect it to be.

[Alby]

being a bus driver is probably one of the most stressed out position in the company. from what i heard from my bus driver friends, they avoid passenger interaction as much as possible to reduce the shit that can happen to them.

[Mr.HappySilp]

As a bus driver? Not as simple of a job as you may think. The "easy" routes are in high demand, so newer employees are given the shit end of the stick when it comes to routes. I have a couple friends who are bus drivers (both community shuttles and full size buses) and some of the horror stories they've talked about is insane. Let's just say that the amount of times you'll get spat on, sworn at, and threatened at needle point is far higher than you'd ever expect it to be.

I guess that's why they are installing protection glass for the drivers seat? They should just install some barb wire as well with electric current though them so if anyone try to reach the drivers they get shock till they shit their pants.

[Verdasco]

lol @ you fools missing class because of the bus, either go 2 hours early or stop bitching. You know anything can happen...

That is why I drive :fuckthatshit: even though accidents and traffic can happen, always go
early!

[Gunsmokez]

Hello,

I'm a operator, if you have questions I can try to answer them for yah :)

FYI, the hiring process for me was over 8 months long.(Training was 6 or so weeks) There were I believe 7 stages to go through.
SO make sure you are working at the time and do not quit your current job at ALL! Until you get the letter or email from them stating training date.

[TypeRNammer]

Meanwhile in Richmond...

Bus crash in Richmond knocks out power to thousands of BC Hydro customers | News1130 (http://www.news1130.com/2015/02/07/bus-crash-in-richmond-knocks-out-power-to-thousands-of-bc-hydro-customers/)

[yray]

:suspicious:

how...

no passengers :lawl:

[E-40six]

Looks like there will be a new job opening! :lawl:

http://www.news1130.com/files/2015/02/B9RA3_gCYAEpJ0F-503x668.jpg

[Gunsmokez]

To some of you that are waiting for training dates, they still are training that is for sure.

Saw a bunch of training buses driving around on friday :P Heard that class was made up of 8 only. And about half of them were from Shuttle.

[TypeRNammer]

Here's a slight update. The HR followed up with my email in regards to my application for the conventional position. So pretty much my shuttle application had to be denied in order for the conventional application to go through. Got that done already.

One more thing he also said was the posting for the conventional position will be closing off at the end of the day today.

[hotjoint]

To some of you that are waiting for training dates, they still are training that is for sure.

Saw a bunch of training buses driving around on friday :P Heard that class was made up of 8 only. And about half of them were from Shuttle.

Wow, I've been waiting since mid Aug to start training

[Gunsmokez]

Wow, I've been waiting since mid Aug to start training

One thing with Trankslink is that they are SLOW!!!! I mean really slow. Seems like they want to test your ability to be patient some times.

In the mean time, make sure you are reading up on Air brakes! (There will be a test, and you have to know , how the air brake system works including a hauling a trailer)
http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/BCT-AirBrake-ppt.pdf

This is really good info! (Quick and short pdf version i found http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/8_Part_Air_Brake_Check%20102213%20_PTJ_.pdf)




Also this as well lol,

http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/RegionalP_PGuideFINAL11oct2012.pdf

[meowjinboo]

As a bus driver? Not as simple of a job as you may think. The "easy" routes are in high demand, so newer employees are given the shit end of the stick when it comes to routes. I have a couple friends who are bus drivers (both community shuttles and full size buses) and some of the horror stories they've talked about is insane. Let's just say that the amount of times you'll get spat on, sworn at, and threatened at needle point is far higher than you'd ever expect it to be.

big fucking deal. I've seen filipinos that work for minimum wage deal with way worse shit.

My post wasn't just bus drivers it was all translink employees. Their trades pay more than union shops for their jobs. And union shops are known to pay the most too.

[SoNaRWaVe]

well meowjin, it sounds like you are butt hurt about how much translink employees make. but that is just what the union and the company decides how much their employee is worth. and that is also why it looks more lucrative to work for translink. i suspect that is also a good recruiting tactic.

[TypeRNammer]

One thing with Trankslink is that they are SLOW!!!! I mean really slow. Seems like they want to test your ability to be patient some times.

In the mean time, make sure you are reading up on Air brakes! (There will be a test, and you have to know , how the air brake system works including a hauling a trailer)
http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/BCT-AirBrake-ppt.pdf

This is really good info! (Quick and short pdf version i found http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/8_Part_Air_Brake_Check%20102213%20_PTJ_.pdf)

Also, start memorizing how to do a Air pre trip. YOU will have to memorize this to the T!!!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VK-VxS-VQ6o&feature=youtu.be


Also this as well lol,

http://hub.bctransit.com/sst/pdf/RegionalP_PGuideFINAL11oct2012.pdf

Damn that's a lot of reading material but lots of information to refer to.

[Gunsmokez]

Yup it is a lot of reading. This is why I suggest if you are waiting for training date, read up on it now. At least get a understanding of how the air brake system works.

This is all crammed into your head in the first week and you need to pass CMBC test, As well as ICBC test. (Leave your current job on good terms!! just in case shit happens and you have back up)

[GLOW]

:suspicious:

how...

no passengers :lawl:

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/26/26bacd66a76d8b46e24b39b89760e4bef15b3df7bd19835fac cc971c7cd143d4.jpg

[shawnly1000]

TransLink interim CEO Doug Allen will earn $35,000/month. Outgoing CEO Ian Jarvis will continue to earn his original salary until June 2016.

TransLink board replaces CEO Ian Jarvis | News1130 (http://www.news1130.com/2015/02/11/translink-board-replaces-ceo-ian-jarvis/)

[TypeRNammer]

:suspicious:

how...

no passengers :lawl:

http://www.quickmeme.com/img/26/26bacd66a76d8b46e24b39b89760e4bef15b3df7bd19835fac cc971c7cd143d4.jpg


It was a Maintenance worker who had a medical emergency... Luckily he didn't hit anyone else... He ended up trapped in the bus for a period of time until the power was turned off too...

From another forum

[PiuYi]

TransLink CEO Doug Allen promises better transit signage, escalators
Interim CEO sidesteps questions on executive salaries, TransLink's biggest problem

TransLink's new interim CEO Doug Allen will improve Metro Vancouver transit services while finding more efficiencies, he told CBC Vancouver host Andrew Chang during a one-on-one interview on Wednesday.

"I'm an escalator-elevator guy. I like to spend a lot of time worrying about those being better, more reliable. It's a big deal in the transit system. So I hope our performance on escalators and elevators is up," said Allen.

Allen was appointed the interim CEO after a hastily called news conference last week during which the corporation's board of directors announced Ian Jarvis was stepping down as CEO.

The interim CEO said he also spends a lot of time worrying about signage.

"When I go into a station, or if I'm at a bus stop, I like to know that the signage is pretty good so you and I can figure out how we're going to travel through the system. And I hope the signage we see in the system generally will be better."

On TransLink's biggest problem

However, TransLink's problems go far beyond malfunctioning escalators and poor signage. A number of recent problems has lead to a loss of public confidence.

For example, the corporation is facing serious questions about its long-promised Compass Card program. The $200 million automated fare-gate system, which promised to save money by stopping fare evaders, was supposed to be up and running before 2012. However, the roll out date has been repeatedly delayed due to glitches with the system.

TransLink also came under fire last year following two system-wide SkyTrain meltdowns that left thousands of passengers stranded at the height of rush hour.

Chang asked Allen what he thinks is the biggest challenge facing the corporation, but he side-stepped the question.

"I'm not concerned about the biggest problem. I'm concerned about providing good leadership. That's my job," said Allen.

"You find out what's going on, what's working well and then you spend some time ensuring you know what isn't working well and you take action. And that's leadership. And you set the tone through the entire organization to move from A to something better called B."

Allen said he already has a lot of ideas about what can be improved and is spending time working through them. He didn't go into specifics, but he said he will be focusing on three factors necessary to securing public confidence: reliability, quality of service and safety.

He also said he will work on improving efficiency.

"It comes in how you deliver service, how you do it smarter, how you deliver more people with fewer vehicles," he said.

"In some cases you have to look at procurement — how we buy buses, how we maintain them. You have to do that smarter and cheaper."

Allen's appointment has brought to the fore another criticism of TransLink: high executive pay.

Last year, salary disclosure documents revealed Jarvis earned $468,015 in 2013, including $83,000 in bonuses.

While no longer CEO, Jarvis will stay on with TransLink as an adviser to its board of directors — receiving his full salary — until his contract expires next year.

Meanwhile, TransLink will also be paying Allen $35,000 every month until a permanent replacement is found.

When asked how the corporation rationalizes having two CEOs on its payroll, Allen deferred to the board.

"Andrew, you're going to have to go to the board for that answer," he told the CBC host.

"My job is to lead [TransLink] as I've described, and money management is a big part of that in terms of trying to deliver better, more, and more efficiently. That's a big task."

Allan did not answer questions about the kind of work Jarvis will be doing as an adviser either.

"I'm the CEO. I will lead the organization in all respects. His role is an adviser to the board. The board speaks to what that role is."

On the transit funding plebiscite

Allen stepped into his new role a month before Metro Vancouverites vote on a proposed 0.5 per cent sales tax that will go toward the Mayors' Council's 10-year, $7.5 billion dollar regional transportation plan.

He said he will leave the campaigning to the mayors, but will be voting 'yes' after ballots are mailed out on March 16.

"The region is growing particularly rapidly in Surrey and surrounding areas. Growth in the transit system is absolutely necessary if your personal well-being and mine are going to be enhanced. It's that simple."

TransLink has said it aims to have a permanent CEO in place by this fall.

TransLink CEO Doug Allen promises better transit signage, escalators - British Columbia - CBC News (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/translink-ceo-doug-allen-promises-better-transit-signage-escalators-1.2962661)



guy sounds like a real prick and doesn't have any idea what he's doing for $35,000 a month

[Vansterdam]

This Is Our Stop (http://thisisourstop.com/)

interesting site if you take the bus often

[subordinate]

What's the benefits at Translink like, curious.

[Alby]

from what i known and used, you get your basic health plan. extended health. covers 80% of dental. every 2 years you get to claim 80% up to 400$ worth of prescription glasses. covers 80% of the massage from a RMT. lots of other untapped resources that i've never used or bother to find out as i probably don't ever use them. that is from my union. other union will probably offer something similiar in benefits

[subordinate]

from what i known and used, you get your basic health plan. extended health. covers 80% of dental. every 2 years you get to claim 80% up to 400$ worth of prescription glasses. covers 80% of the massage from a RMT. lots of other untapped resources that i've never used or bother to find out as i probably don't ever use them. that is from my union. other union will probably offer something similiar in benefits

Thanks, sounds pretty standard benefits wise.

[DustinSidhu]

The driver for my bus yesterday honked at every intersection he drove through... I asked him why and he just stared at me and looked away LOL

[melloman]

^^
http://rs1img.memecdn.com/because-fuck-you_o_1107235.jpg

[hotjoint]

Translink just called and gave me a start date for training, April 20th! This whole process has taken over a year to get in so anyone interested, prepare to wait.

[minoru_tanaka]

So they've put up a bunch of those rubber hoses to count the traffic on Dunsmuir coming off the viaduct. Except the viaduct will be closed for two weeks for a movie shoot. I'm a little suspicious.....

[denham]

Translink just called and gave me a start date for training, April 20th! This whole process has taken over a year to get in so anyone interested, prepare to wait.
That's great about training! Are you for Community Shuttle or the regular buses?

I just heard back about training and I start next Monday April 13th for Community Shuttle. I think I applied last Feb or March, and my interview was in September.

[hotjoint]

That's great about training! Are you for Community Shuttle or the regular buses?

I just heard back about training and I start next Monday April 13th for Community Shuttle. I think I applied last Feb or March, and my interview was in September.

Regular bus. Good luck man. I have to go for a uniform fitting and documentation next week before I start on the 20th, can't wait!

[denham]

Nice. I got my uniform last week and had my documentation meeting yesterday.

[hchang]

Regular bus. Good luck man. I have to go for a uniform fitting and documentation next week before I start on the 20th, can't wait!

Are you hired FT?

[hotjoint]

Are you hired FT?

Yes

[FN-2199]

How have I not read any of this thread before? Translink is a great company to work for, despite their shitty rep.

Translink just called and gave me a start date for training, April 20th! This whole process has taken over a year to get in so anyone interested, prepare to wait.

Congrats, and good luck with training! It's pretty in-depth, so make sure you're awake throughout with lots of coffee.
The most tedious part that is still ingrained in my brain is the damn pretrip, as Gunsmokez mentioned. You will come to know it very well in training, and (probably) the rest of your career.

[hotjoint]

How have I not read any of this thread before? Translink is a great company to work for, despite their shitty rep.



Congrats, and good luck with training! It's pretty in-depth, so make sure you're awake throughout with lots of coffee.
The most tedious part that is still ingrained in my brain is the damn pretrip, as Gunsmokez mentioned. You will come to know it very well in training, and (probably) the rest of your career.

I already memorized the pre trip video that Gunsmokez posted on the page before :)

[Jmac]

Translink just called and gave me a start date for training, April 20th! This whole process has taken over a year to get in so anyone interested, prepare to wait.
Congrats Dave!

[Alby]

to all the future drivers out there, stay safe and hope it isn't that stressful for you.

[hotjoint]

Congrats Dave!

Thanks James!

[Gunsmokez]

Good luck , remember to have fun too. Get to know your classmates really well. You guys will be relying on each other while going through this whole process. They will also be life long friends throught out your career with CMBC.

Oh yah forgot, to mention. They have a kerig machine now on the 4th floor lunch room, sugar, and coffee whitener is supplied. Just bring your own k-cup.

The 4th floor will be the training dept floor. 1st floor being bus,2nd maintenance and service i think, 3 floor is the main floor (Bullpen,operations supervisors,Depot staff)

Some of the amenities there are pool table, queit rooms, air hockey,ping pong table, work out gym and shower washers all on third floor as well. (Had a class mate would go work out after every class because he lived in surrey and didnt want to hit traffic) Would also stay there and did his homework before going home.

Also, if you havent yet done ride alongs PLEASE do so. IT will help you out alot and maybe bring down some anxieties you might have of dealing with customers. Heard a story of a guy that quit when it came down to revenue service because he couldn't deal with passengers.

Ride the 3,8,14,16,20 evening shifts wouldl be ideal. Most drivers are very accomodating and will tell you what things to look out for and how to deal certain types.

Should say Congradulations as well!!! to both of you that made it. CMBC is an awesome company to work for.

[murd0c]

My buddy has been a bus driver for the past two years and he loves it. The drug test scared him but once he went clean with smoking for a couple months and passed hes been cronic since

[smoothie.]

^ LOL

[GLOW]

hot box the bus?

[murd0c]

hot box the bus?

he told me no problem if no one else is on it haha

[denham]

Well I just finished my first week of training for community shuttle. Monday was in Vancouver and we played with the DCU and fairbox stuff. The rest of the week has been in PoCo and we've had classroom stuff in the morning followed by some time driving later in the day. The hours are 6am-2pm. PoCo works great for me since I live in Pitt Meadows.

Driving the bus has been fun. It was pretty intimidating on the first day since I've never driven anything that big before, but it's a lot better now and I'm getting more confident. I can't imagine what it's like starting out on the conventional buses if you've never driven anything big! I'm glad I'm starting on the shuttle bus.

So far the experience has been pretty positive. Nice to be getting paid for training for sure. I almost wish training was more than 9 days to really get things figured out but I guess I'll be ok!

[SoNaRWaVe]

For you conventional guys, maybe I might see a couple of you going through the farebox hut :) Don't usually do it but sometimes there are pieces of OT that I pick up.

[hotjoint]

I spent a good 2 hours today doing ride alongs and talking to bus drivers. Asked a bunch of questions and they were all really nice to me :thumbsup:. Might do another few hours this weekend before training starts Monday, can't wait!

[Gunsmokez]

Good that you are doing ride alongs, it will help you a lot. Gives you a bit of what to expect and also tips from drivers are always helpful.

If you are not familiar with Vancouver routes, do more ride alongs so you won't get lost when it is time on your own. Trolley's just gotta follow the wire. But diesel on the other hand, you can make wrong turns and such.

22 (Knight,Dunbarloop),25 (Brentwood/UBC),33 (29th stn/UBC) ,41 (Joyce/UBC) ,100 22ndstn/Marople loop, 15/50 (Cambie/Granville Island) <---this one is fucking confusing first time around.

Or you can look at google maps and study it that way. After your are out of class, they kinda expect you to know the routes. You won't know what you are doing till 5 or 6pm the day before when you are on spareboard.

I've had it one time, where I finished a job at 2600. Took it back to the yard, and then went to look up to see what kinda work Im doing next day. Only to find out, I'm working in exactly 8 hours later on a piece I have no clue of where it goes. That day was special, because all the senior spareboard guys took all late work. So, I got bumped up to the earliest time I was allowed to work (8 hours later lol ) That was fucked up!

[denham]

I've had my first 3 shifts on the Community Shuttle bus this week. I prepared well by writing notes for directions and checking the route out on google maps so I didn't have to read the small text on the paddle. Every day has gone really well so far. I made one or two wrong turns but got back on route quickly. Monday and Tuesday I was in Burnaby and yesterday I was in Delta. Yesterday was a bit boring with almost no passengers but at least it was stress-free. Overall really enjoying the job so far.

[dragondragon99]

lol i hoe all the busses and trains

[hotjoint]

I've had my first 3 shifts on the Community Shuttle bus this week. I prepared well by writing notes for directions and checking the route out on google maps so I didn't have to read the small text on the paddle. Every day has gone really well so far. I made one or two wrong turns but got back on route quickly. Monday and Tuesday I was in Burnaby and yesterday I was in Delta. Yesterday was a bit boring with almost no passengers but at least it was stress-free. Overall really enjoying the job so far.

Good to hear man. Just finishing up week 2 tomorrow. It's been a VERY overwhelming and intense training course so far. Week 1 was deadly, all of us were second guessing if we still wanted to be bus drivers. CMBC expects you to learn, apply and retain a lot of information. This second week has been much more calm but in no way easier or relaxed. Passed my class 2 driving test, pre trip and air break adjustment tests today :fuckyea:

Do you guys call T-com when you make wrong turns or can you just figure out how to get back on route?

[Gunsmokez]

If running trolleys and make a wrong turn, you will either rip wires down. Or if you go straight instead of turning right. Example #20 EB on Hastings you go straight pass commercial drive instead of turning right. Yes you should call T-comm. Cause, you can't turn around just anywhere. In that case you need to go all the way to Kootney loop or right on renfrew left on broadway and turn around back from there.

Diesel on the other hand, If you are familiar with the roads. Then make a quick announcement and do it yourself. T-comm might call you once they notice why you are off track. But if during peak times, I highly doubt it.

Also, 1st week is the hardest part. The rest just gets easier! So you are almost there !!!!

[Alby]

when i was back in pulling farebox, this lady told me it was her first week on the road. she tore down the wires on granville bridge and was all beaten up and had waterfalls coming out of her eyes. i felt really bad. i hope that nightmare doesn't turn into a reality for any of you.

[hotjoint]

If running trolleys and make a wrong turn, you will either rip wires down. Or if you go straight instead of turning right. Example #20 EB on Hastings you go straight pass commercial drive instead of turning right. Yes you should call T-comm. Cause, you can't turn around just anywhere. In that case you need to go all the way to Kootney loop or right on renfrew left on broadway and turn around back from there.

Diesel on the other hand, If you are familiar with the roads. Then make a quick announcement and do it yourself. T-comm might call you once they notice why you are off track. But if during peak times, I highly doubt it.

Also, 1st week is the hardest part. The rest just gets easier! So you are almost there !!!!

Damn, the fuckin trollies are a lot of work. I could barely concentrate today because I kept looking up to make sure that I was going through the popo switches, power off, trailing frog and insulators correctly. I thought I was golden with the nova's now they switch it up and fuck with my head :lol

Yeah first week felt like death, this second week, I've had time to breathe. I think the air brake endorsement, brake adjustment, pre trip and road test are the hardest tests, going forward, it's all just in house tests and keeping that 80% average.

[Gunsmokez]

What I do when going through overhead is always look through the glass door when going overhead (insulators) . Use land marks to remember where exactly they are located. I use trees,garbage cans,buildings what ever works.

Had a 8 lol behind me today (must be new guy) didn't see the popo switch lol. He went through it so hard his polls fell off (this was a straight wire too ) Guess he saw me go so fast lol didn't realize.

[Gunsmokez]

when i was back in pulling farebox, this lady told me it was her first week on the road. she tore down the wires on granville bridge and was all beaten up and had waterfalls coming out of her eyes. i felt really bad. i hope that nightmare doesn't turn into a reality for any of you.

Actually, not the first time that has happened. Had a retiree on my bus this one time him with his wife. He told me he drove for 27 years. He also told me he ripped the Granville street wires down as well and caused a fire to boot. The whole bridge got shut down.

He was so shocked and embarrassed that he transferred to Surrey lol. Then he went on to say he was very impressed with VTC drivers operating the trolleys haha. That was a cool story.

[hotjoint]

What I do when going through overhead is always look through the glass door when going overhead (insulators) . Use land marks to remember where exactly they are located. I use trees,garbage cans,buildings what ever works.

Had a 8 lol behind me today (must be new guy) didn't see the popo switch lol. He went through it so hard his polls fell off (this was a straight wire too ) Guess he saw me go so fast lol didn't realize.

Yeah, my instructor said look at landmarks to remember where the switches are.


Actually, not the first time that has happened. Had a retiree on my bus this one time him with his wife. He told me he drove for 27 years. He also told me he ripped the Granville street wires down as well and caused a fire to boot. The whole bridge got shut down.

He was so shocked and embarrassed that he transferred to Surrey lol. Then he went on to say he was very impressed with VTC drivers operating the trolleys haha. That was a cool story.

That's my goal to get into Surrey. It's going to take a few years of doing shit work but in the end it'll pay off and I don't have to worry about trolley's once I'm outta Vancouver :lol

[SoNaRWaVe]

heh was fulling fareboxes one night. the trolley went through the overhead inspection. next thing you hear was a loud BANG, then TWANG. trolley bus hit a pole in the yard and ripped the wires down. was slack work for a couple of hours for the guys to fix it so traffic can go through again lol

[Armind]

Does the trip planner includes the traffic time? For instance, I will be taking the Skytrain to 22nd Station and will be taking the bus across the Queensborough bridge.

[jeedee]

Does the trip planner includes the traffic time? For instance, I will be taking the Skytrain to 22nd Station and will be taking the bus across the Queensborough bridge.

No it doesn't. Prepare and go 1 bus/trip earlier. If something can go wrong it will.

[Vansterdam]

I seen a rookie bus driver who was probably on his first day take out a street sign while pulling up to a stop on Commercial and 12 awhile back lol

[Armind]

Sidenote: What's the traffic on queensborough around 7:30Am?

[Inaii]

Anything after 6:45-7am is usually fucked from my experience.

[Armind]

:pokerface:

[hchang]

Sidenote: What's the traffic on queensborough around 7:30Am?

Anything after 6:45-7am is usually fucked from my experience.

Not sure which way inaii goes or what you guys consider "fucked" but I cross the queensborough northbound every morning 730-800 mon-fri and is usually fine.

Sometimes it backs up but buses take the exit and cut in line, or even if you just sit it out it only takes about 10 mins from pedestrian overpass to the bridge deck

Plan a 20 min leeway time and you'll be fine

[Armind]

Thanks guys. Don't wanna be late on my first day at le new job. :thumbs:

[Inaii]

Not sure which way inaii goes or what you guys consider "fucked" but I cross the queensborough northbound every morning 730-800 mon-fri and is usually fine.

Sometimes it backs up but buses take the exit and cut in line, or even if you just sit it out it only takes about 10 mins from pedestrian overpass to the bridge deck

Plan a 20 min leeway time and you'll be fine

Last time I went through there on my way into burnaby the line up for the bridge was all the way back into New West. That was around 7:20. And every other time I've gone through, it's been backed up at least to Stewardson with the idiots trying to jump the line using the Marine lane.

[hchang]

^ we're going opposite directions

[Inaii]

Ahh ya southbound is a gong show usually (which I think is the direction Armind will be travelling? At least that's how his post sounded to me).

[denham]

How's work going everyone? I'm a month into driving the shuttle buses now. The first two weeks were pretty shit. Lots of wrong turns, including one or two where I had no clue how to get back on route and ended up super late. A couple of passengers who concerned me. And just all kinds of little issues. And working casual has meant learning new routes every day for the first 2 or 3 weeks. Also had a shift finish at 9pm and the next one start at 5am. In that 8 hours I had to commute, eat, figure out my routes for the next day, and I only got 4 hours sleep. I was not too happy. I have had a few shifts where I really felt like giving up. Including the C23 down Davie which was really stressful and I was very late also.

But now things are going much better. I feel like I know what I'm doing most of the time, and I hardly ever take wrong turns, and overall the stress level is much lower. I'm glad I made it through the first month ok!

I got reduced (part time) this sign up and I'll be working 3 - 720pm Mon to Fri. I'm looking forward to getting full time, but for now I'm super happy to have got reduced so soon as a lot of people wait 6 months to a year. Getting my seniority number so soon is really good.

Hope you're all having fun!

[hotjoint]

I'm just finishing up my 2nd week out of class. I'm loving it. I'm on the spareboard but I signed and got a notice run that started today until the next sheet that starts on 6/22. Like you said, having random shifts wasn't appealing at all to me and I had enough of it. Got my notice run doing the #41 to joyce/ubc mid day and I'm off at 7:15 and working monday to friday!

I was able to sign some pretty decent work for the next sheet. Got Tues/Weds off so I'm working 9:30am - 7:30pm on weekedays, 6pm-1:30am on saturdays and 3pm-8:30pm on sundays. I've been able to meet the time quota pretty good. The #20 on a weekday at rush hour is the only one that's killed me. I was about 20 minutes late on that one but they short turned me so it was all good. Overall, I'm loving it. I'm very chill and relaxed so nothing bothers me. I just drive and get the passengers from point A to B in a safe manner. A lot of the passengers told me that it's nice to see some new young drivers out there :lol

[SoNaRWaVe]

I'm just finishing up my 2nd week out of class. I'm loving it. I'm on the spareboard but I signed and got a notice run that started today until the next sheet that starts on 6/22. Like you said, having random shifts wasn't appealing at all to me and I had enough of it. Got my notice run doing the #41 to joyce/ubc mid day and I'm off at 7:15 and working monday to friday!

I was able to sign some pretty decent work for the next sheet. Got Tues/Weds off so I'm working 9:30am - 7:30pm on weekedays, 6pm-1:30am on saturdays and 3pm-8:30pm on sundays. I've been able to meet the time quota pretty good. The #20 on a weekday at rush hour is the only one that's killed me. I was about 20 minutes late on that one but they short turned me so it was all good. Overall, I'm loving it. I'm very chill and relaxed so nothing bothers me. I just drive and get the passengers from point A to B in a safe manner. A lot of the passengers told me that it's nice to see some new young drivers out there :lol

it sounds like you got quite the busy routes!

[hotjoint]

it sounds like you got quite the busy routes!

http://i.imgur.com/7SqpSTH.jpg

Gonna get slammed on the #20 on Saturdays :(

EDIT: I'm actually doing a #20 tomorrow from 7pm-3am, I'll see how the crowd is so I know how to prepare for it once the new sheet starts.

[subordinate]

sounds like stressful gigs lol

[Spoon]

LOL Translink spent $5.8M to convince us to vote yes (http://www.vancourier.com/news/translink-spent-5-8-million-on-yes-campaign-1.1967973). :fuckthatshit:

The amount spent on the campaign totalled $5,814,851. Here's how that breaks down:

Advertising: $2.3 million
Voter canvassing (door-to-door, telephone town halls, mail): $2.1 million
Public events and online engagement: $539,146
Research and planning: $449,911
Operations (staff for call centre and administration): $414,412

[hotjoint]

sounds like stressful gigs lol

Nah, the job is what you make of it. If you choose to be stressed out then you're not going to have fun at all.

[Alby]

http://i.imgur.com/7SqpSTH.jpg

Gonna get slammed on the #20 on Saturdays :(

EDIT: I'm actually doing a #20 tomorrow from 7pm-3am, I'll see how the crowd is so I know how to prepare for it once the new sheet starts.

those split shifts :heckno:

[hotjoint]

those split shifts :heckno:

Only a little over 2 hour splits. I can work out, eat lunch and surf the net for a bit. Better than the 4 hour ones that I'm getting now :heckno:

[Alby]

Only a little over 2 hour splits. I can work out, eat lunch and surf the net for a bit. Better than the 4 hour ones that I'm getting now :heckno:

:heckno: :heckno: :heckno:

[SoNaRWaVe]

:heckno::heckno::heckno::heckno::heckno:

4 hours worst! 2 hours is good.

[hotjoint]

:heckno::heckno::heckno::heckno::heckno:

4 hours worst! 2 hours is good.

The #41 that I'm doing now until 6/22 has a 12 minute split, that's gangsta! :fuckyea:

[MG1]

Love it......... transit bus drivers on RS. And so many. I have so much respect for you guys.

Poor drivers who have to do the Powell Street run. The last time I rode a bus on that route, I nearly passed out from the smell.

[Gunsmokez]

I think I know how you look like now Hotjoint.

Saw the picture of the new recruits lol. I believe there was 4 from your class graduating only? whys that, seems awfully low.

[hotjoint]

Love it......... transit bus drivers on RS. And so many. I have so much respect for you guys.

Poor drivers who have to do the Powell Street run. The last time I rode a bus on that route, I nearly passed out from the smell.

I'm doing the powell street run as part of my 2nd piece on Mondays starting 6/22 :lol

I think I know how you look like now Hotjoint.

Saw the picture of the new recruits lol. I believe there was 4 from your class graduating only? whys that, seems awfully low.

Yeah that was my class. We started off with 6, 1 failed the road test of the icbc portion and another quit for personal reasons even after completing the 1st 2 weeks.

They had a class of 8 and another class of 12 after my class, training said that they're set to have training class every 2 weeks until the end of the year so we're not going to be junior very long :)

Come say hi to me if you see me around the depot :thumbsup:

[DC5-S]

Fuck split shifts. Id find a new job

[TypeRNammer]

Positions just opened up for the Community Shuttle.

Head over to the TransLink website and go to the careers section.

Also Sky train attendant positions are available also. Must have a level one first aid before applying for the job.

[Gucci Mane]

whats the rate of pay for community shuttle drivers? last i heard it was $22 or $23/hr correct?

[Gunsmokez]

Starts at somewhere from $18 to $25 max

[TypeRNammer]

whats the rate of pay for community shuttle drivers? last i heard it was $22 or $23/hr correct?

Trainee (9 Days training) $18.26
1st 8 months $19.45
2nd 8 months $21.88
Thereafter $24.31


As per translink website.

Skytrain attendant, once training is completed, pay is close to $30 an hour

[pinn3r]

I can't find the skytrain attendant job posting for the life of me. What are the other requirements of the position?

[GLOW]

high school and first aid?

[pinn3r]

high school and first aid?

Besides the obvious... like what kind of experience, how many years, specific certifications, or anything that'll make one's application stand out from the rest

[DC5-S]

Besides the obvious... like what kind of experience, how many years, specific certifications, or anything that'll make one's application stand out from the rest

giving good head

[Gucci Mane]

Trainee (9 Days training) $18.26
1st 8 months $19.45
2nd 8 months $21.88
Thereafter $24.31


As per translink website.

Skytrain attendant, once training is completed, pay is close to $30 an hour

yeah community shuttle driver isn't worth it for me. already make more than that and work is 7km from home.

considering the skytrain attendant position though..

[Alby]

Skytrain Attendant (STA) from the website

Qualifications
Education

High school graduation or equivalent
Valid BC driver’s licence
First aid training to St. John’s standard level 1 is required
Additional experience for faregate monitoring duties only: Basic computer skills, including
typing

Experience

Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
Demonstrated ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions
Demonstrated ability to deal courteously and effectively with others
Solid customer service skills
Additional experience for faregate monitoring duties only: Demonstrated knowledge and experience in SkyTrain field operations

the internal posting seems to be the same as the public one. only difference in information is the wage that is posted.

[TypeRNammer]

Skytrain is now looking for a full time parts driver.

Pay is about $24 an hour plus benefits.

Head over to the translink website and go to the careers section.

Transit Jobs NOW!!! Coast Mountain Bus is HIRING! | Page 44 - Forum Vancouver (http://www.forumvancouver.com/threads/transit-jobs-now-coast-mountain-bus-is-hiring.1890/page-44#post-29180)

Here's the thread I follow constantly to see if there's any updates in regards to hiring.

[subordinate]

These translink jobs and clean driving abstract.... Zero points is impossible these days!

[falcon]

No, it's really not.

[hotjoint]

These translink jobs and clean driving abstract.... Zero points is impossible these days!

You don't need a spotless driving abstract....

[TypeRNammer]

You don't need a spotless driving abstract....

Maximum of one infraction and cannot be more than 3 penalty points.