Transit changes are coming to Sooke next year.
In January 2026, Sooke's Route 61 and 65 buses will be rerouted to provide service to and from Victoria. The new routes will see Route 65 service Church and Helgesen Roads. Two Route 61 trips will follow the new Route 65 route during peak times in the morning and evening, to service Church and Helgesen Road as well.
"These Route 61 and 65 trips will provide direct service to and from Victoria without the need of transfers, with travel time that is consistent with the existing service," said BC Transit, who explained that this new plan was supported by the Victoria Regional Transit Commission (VRTC), and the District of Sooke.
This plan was developed at the request of the VRTC last fall. BC Transit developed the new reroutes as a near-term, cost-neutral improvement to the 61 and 65 routes.
The near-term plan to update the 61 and 65 routes was supported by almost 70 per cent of respondents when BC Transit conducted a public engagement process through an online survey and in-person engagement at the Sooke Earth Day celebrations.
Throughout this process, BC Transit spoke with the public on potential for longer-term improvements to Sooke transit as well. These improvements were originally outlined in the 2020 Sooke Local Area Transit Plan.
Those potential improvements were supported by more than 60 per cent of respondents, and would include adjustments to the existing Route 63 and 64. They would also introduce local service the Broomhill, Sunriver and Whiffin Spit areas.
"This service change could take place as soon as 2027, but would require VRTC approval, funding, and the completion of the Wadams Way Exchange," said BC Transit. "BC Transit will continue to work with the VRTC and District of Sooke to enhance services in the region and meet increasing demand."
BC Transit confirmed specific details of service changes will be shared with customers closer to the date of implementation.
