A transit shelter located on 34th Street near the Wholesale Club in Vernon has been removed following concerns over multiple small fires that required responses from Vernon Fire Rescue Services.
A video captured last January shows two individuals using a burning roll of newspaper at the 34th Street bus shelter during a cold snap.
Reports of two fires at the shelter earlier in the year prompted Vernon City Council to investigate the matter further.
During an April 8, 2024 meeting, council requested updates regarding the shelter’s safety.
An administration report presented on April 22 confirmed the fires and noted ongoing discussions with BC Transit, which had co-funded the shelter.
According to an update from June 24, BC Transit approved the shelter's relocation to South Vernon Drive, where it will be installed at a Route 5 stop.
The 34th Street transit stop will continue to operate with a standard pole and sign, ensuring public transit access remains available at the location.
For more details about the BC Transit Shelter Program, visit BC Transit Shelter Program.
From City Hall Minutes: ADMINISTRATION UPDATES JUNE 24, 2024 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING PLANNING AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
"Regular - Administration Updates June 24, 2024 Transit Shelter at Wholesale Club At the April 8, 2024 Regular Meeting, Council inquired about the safety and fires in the transit shelter on 34th Street at the Wholesale Club. Administration submitted an administration update at the April 22, 2024 Regular Meeting, that there had been two fires in that shelter. Since then, Administration has confirmed with BC Transit, who co-funded the shelter, that it can be moved. Administration will move the shelter to a stop on Route 5 on South Vernon Drive, when there is availability in the summer construction schedule. The bus stop location on 34th Street will remain with a typical pole and sign."
Vernon Transit Shelter Removed After Safety Concerns