IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 2, 2020 – After careful consideration, the Vancouver Island Connector & Tofino Bus will no longer service the route between Campbell River & Port Hardy. We understand the impact this decision may have; however, the route is not economically viable for the company to continue providing this service.

Formerly, Tofino Bus & All Island Express serviced the route between Campbell River & Port Hardy. When Tofino Bus underwent new ownership and re-branded as VI Connector & Tofino Bus, the company continued to service the route and quickly discovered the many challenges that our predecessors faced. We began to look at several options to make it viable including a reduction in vehicle size, days of operation, as well as subsidy opportunities with hope that we could continue the service. However, no option presented itself, and as a result the decision was made to eliminate the route.

This change is effective immediately as per a final decision made by the Passenger Transportation Board, who agreed that the route was not sustainable financially due to low ridership numbers.

We appreciate your understanding and recognize the complexities of this decision.

Sincerely,
Travis Wilson
General Manager, North Island Operations