Metrotown SkyTrain elevator to close for renovations

SkyTrain riders who rely on the elevator at the Metrotown station are used to long waits, but they may find themselves needing even more time to get around as the lift will close in a few weeks while the station undergoes year-long renovations.

Anyone needing elevator access will have to go to Patterson station by a shuttle that runs every 20 minutes. Regular buses also run between Metrotown and Patterson.

Disability advocate Craig Langston says the shuttles have capacity issues as they can only accommodate four wheelchairs or strollers at one time.

“Waiting 20 minutes with another 15 or 20 minutes of getting in and out of that vehicle, you now prolong someone’s trip at least another half-hour or 45 minutes,” says Langston.

The closure of the elevator doesn’t just impact those in wheelchairs. Metrotown station doesn’t have full escalator access on one side of the street so people who have trouble negotiating stairs may also end up going to Patterson.

“We certainly understand that this is an impact,” says Jeff Busby of TransLink. “We’re asking for their patience. We think the end product is really going to be worth it. The existing elevator is being replaced with three high-speed elevators, which will greatly improve the accessibility of Metrowtown station.”

-with files from Elaine Yong