The Phibbs Exchange, a major transportation hub on the North Shore, has recently undergone a significant renovation. However, the new and improved facility has one notable omission – bathrooms.
The revamped Phibbs Exchange, which serves as a connection point for buses, shuttles, and the SeaBus, opened to the public on Monday. The $14.5 million project was completed by TransLink, in partnership with the City of North Vancouver and the District of North Vancouver.
The new facility boasts a modern design, with a spacious waiting area, improved lighting, and a new public art installation. It also features a new bike parkade, electric vehicle charging stations, and a new bus loop layout to improve traffic flow.
However, the lack of bathrooms has raised concerns among commuters and community members. The previous Phibbs Exchange had two public washrooms, but they were closed in 2019 due to safety concerns. The new facility was not built with any bathrooms, and TransLink has stated that there are no immediate plans to add them.
In response to the criticism, TransLink spokesperson Ben Murphy stated that the decision to not include bathrooms was made after careful consideration of safety and maintenance concerns. He also noted that there are public washrooms available nearby at the nearby Park and Tilford shopping centre.
Despite this, some commuters are disappointed with the lack of bathrooms at the Phibbs Exchange. North Vancouver resident, Sarah Jones, expressed her frustration, stating, “It’s a major transportation hub, and it’s unacceptable that there are no bathrooms available for commuters.”
In addition to the lack of bathrooms, some have also raised concerns about the accessibility of the new facility for individuals with disabilities. While the new design includes ramps and elevators, some have pointed out that the distance between the SeaBus terminal and the bus loop may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
TransLink has stated that they are open to feedback and will continue to monitor the situation at the Phibbs Exchange. They have also assured the public that they are committed to providing a safe and efficient transportation experience for all commuters.
In conclusion, while the revamped Phibbs Exchange offers many improvements, the absence of bathrooms has sparked criticism and raised concerns about accessibility. TransLink has stated that they will continue to evaluate the situation and make necessary adjustments to ensure the facility meets the needs of all commuters.
