In November 2024, Translink sought input regarding the repurpose of the Mark I SkyTrain cars.

Abstract of our RFI submission

Public transit, is essential for the community. This project will create a lasting legacy by offering a place for business, gathering and entertainment, thus encouraging community engagement.  

1. Project overview:

All cars will undergo the same structural modification into a unique and innovative one-third, two-thirds configuration, thus providing separate access to a HUB and a SERVICE area. The interior designs of the HUB sections will be determined through a contest and subsequently awarded.

Ensure a streamlined process at financially attractive costs for as much of the Mark I fleet as possible, including but not limited to:

• vehicle structural modification (ref to section 4 for details),

• installation (transportation and structural support),

• short and long-term funding (sponsor, rental...),

• maintenance, and operation (with local resident committees and authorities).

Additionally, a number of modified vehicles could be available for purchase by business or for private use (ending Embrace Vancouver involvement).

Embrace Vancouver will be in charge for ensuring the financial feasibility/viability by initiating and supporting activities as outlined in the 'Proposed Use of Mark I SkyTrain Cars' section thanks to a unified management, online platform/app...

Proposed Use of Mark I SkyTrain Cars:

Usage will include but not limited to:

• a place of exchange between locals (HUB), under local committees initiative

• a small scale market place for artisans, artist, catering and other business (HUB)

• entertainment event (HUB) such as celebrations, block or park parties

Contractual installation in parks, public, or residential spaces for a foreseen period of 15 to 20 years.

In addition to responsibilities described above, Embrace Vancouver will be responsible for organizing four events per year for the whole fleet, coinciding with the solstices and equinoxes.

2. Implementation Details:

Anticipated Community Impact:

Embrace Vancouver will identify and shortlist as many public spaces as possible across Metro-Vancouver and engage with relevant authorities.

Foreseen process for installation in parks and public spaces:

• announcement of selected public spaces: seek resident feedback and authorities' final approval.

• committee creation (adopt a Mark I): "Some day-to-day management will be ensured by neighborhood resident committees following the bylaws and directives of authorities, with the support of Embrace Vancouver.

Benefits: perpetuate the unique Metro-Vancouver West Coast character and ambiance. 

If the committees are not operational, Embrace Vancouver shall take over the related tasks.

Financial Support and Contribution:

The initial contribution will come from sponsors, who will have an exclusive advertising space on the outer side, billboard-style using see-through window graphics, for the whole duration of the project. This contribution is intended to cover at least the structural modifications and transportation of the sponsored Mark I.

The installation costs are foreseen to be supported by the relevant authority and or public fundraising. A part of the profits made from the sale of modified Mark I to businesses and individuals can be allocated to recover installation costs.

The maintenance costs for the duration of the 15 to 20-year contract shall be covered by Embrace Vancouver through rental and event organization.

When installed in public spaces, the ownership of the Mark I will be returned to the relevant authority at the end of the 15 to 20-year contract.

3. Technical and Logistical Considerations:

Plans for Relocation of Vehicles:

• at the Translink facility: removal of the bogie and any traction, electrical system

• transport by truck from the Translink facility to the modification contractor site and from the modification contractor to the installation site.

Proposed Activation and Customization:

At the installation site, a standardized concrete base will ensure long-term stability and integrity.

Every car will undergo the same process:

• split into one-third: SERVICE section, and two-thirds: HUB section

• car’s sliding doors will be secured in lock position

• the interior will be mostly emptied, lateral seats might be kept in place in the HUB

• Following the design contest, the interior layout will be proposed in several variants or kits to accommodate the specific location's needs and deliver a cost competitive turnkey solution.

• An advanced access control system will be installed across the entire fleet to maximize usage time and insure site security.

  
  

The SERVICE section will be a limited access area dedicated too equipment and materials needed to operate location. It’s servicing the HUB through the concrete base structure. It can feature primary connections to the power grid (BC Hydro), solar panels management, connection to the water supply system. It will also serve as storage space and computer room. Windows will be secured by a back-plate.

The HUB section will be a public supervised access area. Refer to ‘Proposed Use of Mark I SkyTrain Cars’ under section 2 above.

Long-term Maintenance Strategy:

• Service and operation will be insured by:

• volunteers and donation through the ‘adopt a Mark I’ program

• Embrace Vancouver support through revenue generated by the global fleet such as rental for special celebrations, pop-up events as craft, art, entertainment...