An exact timeline of when the escalator at the bus loop outside Metropolis at Metrotown will be fixed is still unknown, according to the mall’s property manager.
Charles Fleck tells the NOW he understands that it’s taking longer than normal to fix the broken escalator, which has been out of service for more than six months. He says staff is “working diligently” with a third-party contractor and the B.C. Safety Authority, the body responsible for giving the final green light for an escalator or elevator to come back online.
“Until the safety authority actually says, ‘OK, it can open up,’ we don’t know the exact time,” explains Fleck. “Obviously they have very strict standards that have to be met.”
He notes the delay has been due to a “variety of factors.” The contractor, who is servicing and maintaining the equipment, has had issues sourcing the specific parts from suppliers. Asked where those parts are coming from, Fleck couldn’t say.
As an alternative, people can use an elevator roughly 30 feet away, located inside the mall. To accompany the morning rush of commuters and those travelling at night, mall doors to that elevator are being kept open longer. Doors open at 7 a.m. and close after 10 p.m.
Fleck adds he’s heard from a lot of people, including those with mobility issues.
“As soon as possible is what we’re working towards.”
