How many have been damaged
Why other glass types have issues

Nearly 60 bus shelters have been destroyed throughout Kelowna and the repairs are both frustrating and costly for the city.

Officials estimate it’s had to sped at least $50,000 to replace damaged glass.

Kelowna’s Transit Service Coordinator, Mike Kittmer, told Kelowna10 that dealing with the latest round of vandalism has been discouraging.

“I think the individuals responsible don’t take into consideration the effect they have on others,” he said. “We provide these shelters, so our transit riders have a comfortable place to wait in inclement weather.”

The Kelowna RCMP are investigating 59 transit shelters that have been vandalized. During one incident, on Jan. 22, 2022, witnesses reported an old model blue Nissan/Datsun or Toyota car driving slowly past a bus shelter, and then what sounded like a high-powered air gun being fired before the shelter glass shattered.

The costs to repair ultimately trickles down to the taxpayer, and Kittmer said the process can be expensive. He said panels can range from $300 to $500 each, on top of instillation costs, which can be upwards of $200. The city does have a contract in place with a local glass company.

“It’s a considerable amount of coordination ordering the glass, keeping it in stock, and to make sure the contractor has time within their schedule to come out and deal with incidents that come up overly often recently,” he said.

Moving to plexiglass or Lexan glass is being considered, but comes with their own issues, such as UV damage, or creating low visibility for passengers and bus drivers.

Kittmer has a message to those who find the situation amusing.

“You’re having an effect on other people out there who rely on these transit shelters. You’re creating a safety risk, and obviously there’s a cost to the community to repair these things.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact the police or Crime Stoppers.

Here’s how much vandalized bus shelters are costing you

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