The first initiatives from Vancouver TransLink’s HandyDART Customer-First Plan will begin rolling out this month, with later service hours launching January 11 and Spare to deliver online booking and real-time trip tools.

Starting next week, HandyDART hours will extend to 2 a.m., improving service availability for customers and aligning more closely with SkyTrain operating hours. This gives customers more flexibility and better access to late-night transportation for work shifts, social outings, community events, concerts, sports games, and more, according to the agency.

TransLink Partners with Spare 

TransLink anticipates its partnership with Spare will deliver software upgrades that will significantly improve the overall customer experience.

The new software will:

• Allow HandyDART users or caregivers to book and cancel trips online via a smartphone app and/or website, 24 hours a day.

• The current HandyDART phone line will remain available for bookings.

• Show customers real-time vehicle locations.

• Improve customer communications, including trip notifications and alerts when vehicles are approaching their pickup location.

• Enable simpler customer feedback.

• Implement simpler HandyDART applications and registration.

Officials said the software is in development and is expected to launch in 2027.

“Extending HandyDART hours and advancing a new online booking tool are huge steps forward in our Customer-First Plan, which delivers what customers told us they want,” says TransLink CEO Kevin Quinn. “These improvements will make HandyDART easier to use and give customers more flexibility in their day.”

Continued Improvement of HandyDART

TransLink officials said the agency remains committed to enhancing customer experiences through the HandyDART Customer-First Plan. 

Recent improvements to service include implementing Compass on HandyDART vehicles, simplifying fare payments through age-based discounts for youth and seniors, and modernizing the cancellation policy to improve vehicle availability.