First communities go live on a new digital handyDART system, bringing online booking and real-time trip tracking to handyDART riders across two B.C. regions.
CHILLIWACK, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA, September 10, 2026 /EINPresswire.com/ — Today, BC Transit and Spare announced the launch of a new technology to improve handyDART service in Chilliwack and the Central Fraser Valley, powered by Spare. This launch marks the first of 28 BC Transit handyDART communities that will transition to the new technology, ultimately giving riders in both urban and rural communities access to digital booking tools and real-time trip information.
Riders in Chilliwack and Central Fraser Valley can book, change, or cancel handyDART trips through a mobile app or online booking with no phone call required. The reservations line remains available for those who prefer it.
“Today’s launch in Chilliwack and Central Fraser Valley is the first step in modernizing the systems used to deliver handyDART service in 28 transit systems across the province.” said Kristoffer Vik Hansen, CEO and Co-founder of Spare. “For riders who depend on these services every day — to get to medical appointments, to work, to see family — an accessible booking experience matters. We’re proud to be delivering on that promise alongside BC Transit.”
The launch reflects a collaborative implementation approach built around operational readiness, local service needs and consistency across all handyDART systems.
Spare worked closely with BC Transit to configure the platform, support implementation planning and prepare for launch. Input from stakeholders was incorporated throughout the process to ensure the system reflects the realities of service delivery in Chilliwack and the Central Fraser Valley.
What the new system means for riders
handyDART riders in Chilliwack and the Central Fraser Valley now have access to:
Mobile and web booking — Book, modify or cancel trips anytime through the rider app or online, without waiting on hold
Real-time trip tracking — See vehicle location and estimated arrival times directly in the app
Accessible digital options — New tools and resources designed for riders with mobility, visual and hearing considerations
Simpler registration and trip management — New riders can apply online through a digital registration process
Caregiver access — Support for family members and caregivers to manage bookings on behalf of riders
For BC Transit staff and operators, the platform provides real-time dispatch visibility, automated scheduling, operational reporting, and a consistent approach to enhance service quality across the region.
About BC Transit
BC Transit is the provincial Crown agency charged with coordinating the delivery of public transportation across British Columbia, except for those areas serviced by TransLink (Metro Vancouver). More than 1.9 million British Columbians in over 130 communities across the province have access to BC Transit local and regional transit services. For more information, visit BCTransit.com.
About Spare
Vancouver-based Spare is the AI-native operations platform helping government agencies deliver more reliable, efficient and community-focused transit. Founded in British Columbia, Spare has deep roots in Canada, with founders and team members who live and work in the communities they serve. Spare brings together paratransit, microtransit, fixed route and asset management in a single configurable platform, giving agencies real-time visibility, better on-time performance and the flexibility to adapt services. Staff get tools that reduce manual work. Riders get digital self-service that meets today’s expectations. In Canada, Spare works with BC Transit, TransLink, Hamilton Street Railway, Oakville Transit, Regina Transit, Saint John Transit, Saskatoon Transit, Winnipeg Transit, and more. Learn more at www.spare.com.
Maria Osipova
Spare
+1 855-551-0585
maria.osipova@spare.com
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