More than 50 workplaces are subsidizing transit as a staff benefit 

VANCOUVER, BC – More Metro Vancouver employers are offering transit as a benefit to employees, to ensure their staff’s commute is easier and more affordable. Over 50 organizations are now participating in TransLink’s Transit-Friendly Employer program, with nearly 15,000 employees receiving subsidized Compass transit passes.

Through the program, employers can cover half the cost of a monthly or Stored Value Compass Pass, offering their employees a smarter, greener, and more affordable way to get to work. Certified employers can display the exclusive Transit-Friendly Employer stamp on their websites and job postings to attract talent and highlight their commitment to a cleaner environment.

Canada’s first-of-its-kind Transit-Friendly Employer program was launched in 2022. To be eligible for the program, large employers (defined as having 200 or more staff) must have at least 10 per cent employee participation and small employers (fewer than 200 staff) must meet at least 25 per cent participation.

Among the 54 participating organizations, 21 are large employers and 33 are small employers. Participants include YVR Vancouver Airport Authority, Lush Handmade Cosmetics, Vancouver Coastal Health, Fairmont Vancouver Airport, Rivian Automotive, Herschel Supply Co. Canada, Melanie Auld Jewelry, and Grouse Mountain. A full list of participating organizations is available at translink.ca/transitfriendlyemployer.

By helping employees switch to transit, certified employers are also playing a role in building a more sustainable region. Transportation is the largest source of carbon emissions in Metro Vancouver, and shifting even a portion of trips from car to transit can make a measurable difference:

• Riding a conventional bus reduces emissions by 60 per cent compared to a gas-powered car.
• Trips on SkyTrain or electric trolley buses reduce emissions by more than 99 per cent.

With the largest bus service expansion since 2018 now underway, TransLink is making it even easier for Metro Vancouverites to leave the car behind and choose transit for school, work, or leisure. This fall, TransLink has increased service on 53 routes, including 26 routes serving post-secondary institutions across the region.

Organizations interested in signing up to become the next Transit-Friendly Employer can learn more through the Transit-Friendly Employer program overview.

Quotes –

Kevin Quinn, CEO, TransLink –
“The Transit Friendly Employer program highlights how vital transit is to the success of our region. By supporting workers and connecting communities, we’re helping build a healthier, more sustainable future for everyone.”

Tim Waldrop, Senior Manager, Commute & Mobility Programs, Rivian Automotive –
"The TransLink Transit-Friendly Employer program is immensely valuable to surrounding communities as well as Rivian employees in Vancouver. Programs like Transit-Friendly Employer help to keep costs low, reduce traffic congestion and emissions, and provide a safe and efficient alternative to drive-alone commutes."

Geoff Roberts, Director of Parking, Access and Commuter Services, Fraser Health Authority –
"Employees who have taken advantage of the Transit-Friendly Employer program have told us how much they appreciate it. They feel supported, knowing that their workplace is doing what it can to provide more affordable transportation options. Some colleagues even share a bus ride or SkyTrain trip together."

More information:
Transit-Friendly Employer

Media contact:
media@translink.ca