Victoria to upgrade bus shelters citywide

Nearly 100 new bus shelters are being installed in Victoria by the end of 2026 – at no cost to the city.

For transit riders in Victoria, the experience of waiting for the bus is set to change, as the city moves ahead with a large-scale shelter replacement program.

Nearly 100 new bus shelters are planned across the city by the end of 2026, as part of an effort to modernize transit infrastructure and improve coverage at stops where shelters are needed.

Installation has already begun, and another 88 shelters are scheduled over the next two years. Many of the existing structures being replaced have been in place for more than 20 years, which the city identifies as the typical lifespan of a bus shelter.

In a statement, the City of Victoria said the upgrades are intended to improve safety, comfort and accessibility for transit users, while also supporting broader transportation and climate goals.

“We want to make it easier and safer for people to choose transit and other sustainable ways to get around the city,” said John Hicks, manager of transportation planning. “Modern shelters mean a more comfortable place to wait.”

The project is being delivered through a partnership between the City of Victoria, BC Transit and Astral Media Outdoor, and will not require direct capital funding from the municipality.

BC Transit will provide 20 shelters, while Astral Media Outdoor will install 78. The rollout includes standard shelters, along with two green-roof designs and 30 units featuring digital advertising panels.

According to the statement, the advertising-supported shelters are expected to generate revenue that can be reinvested into transit infrastructure.

The first digital advertising shelter was installed May 28 at Douglas Street near Yates Street.

BC Transit says shelters are an important part of the transit experience, particularly during periods of rain and cold weather when riders are waiting outdoors. Some will be wheelchair accessible, have seating and meet current accessibility standards.

The city also noted that transit stop amenities are one of several factors that can influence transit use, along with service frequency and overall travel time.

The initiative aligns with the City of Victoria’s Official Community Plan and its GoVictoria sustainable mobility strategy, which outline long-term priorities aimed at reducing emissions and increasing the use of public transit.

The Official Community Plan was adopted in 2025 after a two-year planning process and replaces the previous version from 2012.