Vancouver’s TransLink is accelerating the launch of the R2 RapidBus extension to Metrotown, bringing faster, more frequent service between the North Shore, Vancouver, and Burnaby.

Funded through the 2025 Investment Plan, the new R2 Marine–Willingdon RapidBus is expected to begin service in September, more than three months ahead of schedule.

The R2 RapidBus Extension

The extension of the existing R2 from Phibbs Exchange to Metrotown Station, via Hastings Street and Willingdon Avenue, will create a new direct connection across one of the region’s busiest transit corridors, said officials.

Demand through this corridor remains strong, with more than 14,000 daily transit trips between Phibbs Exchange and Metrotown. The upgraded R2 will serve key destinations, including Park Royal, Lonsdale Quay, Phibbs Exchange, Burnaby Heights, Hastings Park and the PNE, BCIT’s Burnaby Campus, Brentwood Town Center, and Metrotown.

The R2 RapidBus currently has more than 1.9 million boardings per year; this route extension will:

• Create a new direct connection between Park Royal and Metrotown, eliminating the need to transfer at Phibbs Exchange.
• Reduce wait times, with service every six to seven minutes during peak periods.
• Use larger 60-foot buses to add capacity and improve comfort.
• Strengthen connections to the Expo and Millennium SkyTrain lines.

Construction will begin at the end of April 2026 and continue throughout the summer. A total of 14 existing bus stops will be modified, with two additional bus shelters being built; three new bus stops will be added in Burnaby to improve accessibility.

Bringing Expanded Services

The new R2 Marine–Willingdon RapidBus will deliver immediate service improvements for customers and reflects both TransLink and the Mayors’ Council’s commitment to improving transit service in fast-growing parts of the region.

Planning for future bus rapid transit (BRT) and evaluating other possible rapid transit solutions in this part of the region will also continue. A decision on the final route option for BRT in Vancouver and Burnaby has not been made.

“This is an important upgrade for a corridor that connects people to jobs, services, and destinations across the region. Extending the R2 to Metrotown will give customers a more direct trip, more service throughout the day, and more room on board where it’s needed,” said Kevin Quinn, TransLink CEO.