With temperatures predicted to reach into the mid-30s this long weekend, the Resort Municipality of Whistler (RMOW) is urging visitors to choose "quick and cool" free local transit this weekend as a way to beat the heat.
In a release Friday, July 29, the local government said it is preparing for the influx of tourists to the community, who they hope will take advantage of the free local transit that is in place until after Labour Day as a way to drive ridership following the more than four-month-long Sea to Sky transit strike that finally ended in June. Ridership is "critical to meet the community's Big Moves 2030 sustainability goals to reduce GHGs, and helps manage visitor volumes during peak periods, like summer long weekends," the RMOW went on.
“Given our incredible lake-side parks and natural settings, we anticipate, and look forward to welcoming guests from the Lower Mainland this weekend," said Mayor Jack Crompton in the release. “We have our free air-conditioned transit and park shuttles on the ready, in addition to our signature bike and gear storage at our larger parks. From Function Junction to Emerald Estates, we’ll take you there!”
The free Lost Lake shuttle runs between the village and Lost Lake Park daily through Sept. 5, every 20 minutes from 11 a.m to 6 p.m. View the schedule here.
The free Rainbow Park shuttle runs through Labour Day on weekends and statutory holidays, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It also runs every 20 minutes. View the schedule here.
“Choosing to travel by shuttle or transit will play an important role in managing congestion on the highway and on side streets this weekend, making for a great Whistler experience” Crompton continued in the release. “Not only is this really convenient, but it also helps our guests reduce their personal and the resorts carbon footprint. It’s a win-win.”
For transit, shuttle and bike and gear storage information, visit whister.ca/ParkAndPlay.
The RMOW also offered some tips on beating the heat this weekend, with an extreme heat warning in place for Whistler through July 30. The hottest time of day will be late afternoon into early evening, and residents and visitors are encouraged to take heat breaks throughout the day, to drink plenty of water, "even when not thirsty." Visit whistler.ca/WaterFountains for a map of local water fountains.
The Whistler Public Library, located at 4329 Main Street, and Meadow Park Sports Centre, located at 8625 Highway 99, are cool, air-conditioned spots the public can also visit for a heat break.
For more information, visit whistler.ca/extremeheat.
For extreme heat preparedness and tips visit PreparedBC.
