A Synopsis of Accessibility Features of Skytrain-Vancouver’s Rapid TransitSystem BY KATHARINE M, HUNTER-ZAWORSKI

s ytrain is one of the most accessile—in terms of barrier-free access for elderly and handicapped passengers—rapid transit systems in the world. Accessibility is not merely a feature of design, but also part of operations and education, safety, and emergency procedures. Skytrain was initiated by the British Columbia provincial government in 1980. Construction began in 1982, and Phase I went into revenue service January 1, 1986. When it opened in 1986, Skytrain had a capacity of 6,000 passengers per hour; its current capacity is 10,000 passengers per hour. The rapid transit technology was developed by a Canadian corporation (Urban Transportation Development Corporation of Ontario). The computercontrolled intermediate capacity transit system (ICTS) is highly flexible and is able to respond quickly to changing passenger volumes. The system consists of automated aluminum cars that travel on standard-gauge steel rails on a fully separated dual guideway. Most of the 21.4km Phase 1 line between downtown Vancouver and New Westminster is elevated between 6 m and 8 m above ground. Uniformed operating staff members, equipped with two-way radios, are present at all times, roving through trains and stations to ensure security and provide information and assistance. They also make spot checks for tickets and handle supervisory tasks. Vancouver’s Skytrain is the heart of the Lower Mainland’s Transit System and is closely integrated with the buses, Handidart (paratransit), and SeaBus. Major stations have bus loops, and most bus routes have stops at Skytrain stations so passengers can transfer and continue their trips downtown or to one of greater Vancouver’s regional town centers.