Tuesday, June 9, 2020

VIA Service to and from Prince Rupert to be on once a week schedule

Passenger Train service to and from Prince Rupert will be reduced this summer as VIA Rail resumes its travels along the Northern mainline from Jasper to the Fairview Station on the Prince Rupert waterfront.

In their latest Operations update, VIA has advised its customers that when the first train in months rolls out of the Jasper station on July 5th it will be making its only run of the week, arriving in Prince Rupert on Monday evening at 8:25 if all remains on schedule.

The return trip east will leave the North Coast on Wednesday morning at 8 AM arriving in Prince George twelve hours later, departing for Jasper on Thursday.

The Revised scheduling is part of the Temporary timetable that was released by VIA on June 3rd.

There is no indication from VIA as to how long that schedule will remain in effect, or if they have plans to return to their three times a week service of the past at some point in the future.



In addition to the reduced frequency of the train, there will also be a reduced amount of seating as VIA implements a number of measures related to its COVID response program.

Capacity is to be limited in the Economy class to allow for proper social distancing measures, while the Touring class of service will not be available.

And access to the Dome Car will not be permitted and passengers will be encouraged to remain in their seats as much as possible to limit contact with other passengers and VIA employees.

All passengers will be required to wear a non-medical mask or face covering when it is not possible to respect the 2 metre distance from others.

Passengers will be denied boarding of the train if they experience any symptoms similar to a cold or flu or have been denied boarding for travel in the previous 14 days due to medical reasons related to COVID-19.

There will also be limited baggage space available on the trains.

A complimentary snack will be provided for passengers, but VIA advises that those travelling bring their own meals, with those with special dietary needs to plan accordingly.

The full regimen of travel guidelines can be reviewed here the full timetable is available here.

More notes related to Rail transportation in the Northwest can be reviewed here.

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