Stantec was involved in feasibility study and detailed design with the objective of conducting:

• Develop, and evaluate potential site and facility expansion options
• Reprogram existing space and functional deficiencies
• Develop a strategy for maximizing the existing OMC to accommodate the future fleet
• Develop an implementation and phasing plan
• A new heavy maintenance shop, Rail Infrastructure shop and warehouse.

Stantec delivered the VMS3 project through a collaborative, multistakeholder approach that supported effective coordination, decision making, and complex systems integration on a schedule critical program. The new VMS3 facility significantly increased maintenance capacity by enabling more trains to be serviced concurrently and by supporting heavy maintenance through specialized equipment. Construction was completed while maintaining continuous 24hour operations through careful phasing and coordination.

Central to the project is Manual Area B (MAB), the critical rail interface connecting VMS3 to the live OMC1 yard. (MAB) includes dual switch movements serving the VMS3 East guideway shop and VMS3 West maintenance bays, integrating running rail, high-voltage traction power, and linear induction motor infrastructure within an active yard. Delivering this interface demanded precise coordination of signaling power, controls, and operations. Stantec led the design, validation, and commissioning of this technically demanding interface, ensuring safe and reliable performance.

A key achievement was the implementation of a novel Yard Control System within MAB. This advanced route assistance and reservation system enables operators to position switches independently, enhancing efficiency, reducing human-factor risk, and creating a scalable foundation for future automation.

Stantec finalized the functional program and concept design, completed the detailed design, and provided tendering and construction administration support which included an addition to the OMC to improve the operational capability of the maintenance shop, in preparation for the arrival of new MKV rapid transit trains, by expanding the shop floor area to service more trains simultaneously and improve the support of shop related functions.

Our approach was a thorough understanding of transit operations, zoning and permitting requirements, and the operational constraints of maintaining active facilities during phased construction. This understanding is reflected in our work plan and deliverables and supports TransLink’s objective of delivering a modern, efficient, and resilient operation and maintenance facility and Manual Area B (MAB), the critical rail interface connecting VMS3 to the live OMC1 yard. A major accomplishment was the implementation of an innovative Yard Control System within MAB, providing advanced route assistance and reservation capabilities that allow operators to independently position switches, improving efficiency, reducing human factor risk, and enabling future automation.

The VMS3 facility significantly enhances maintenance capacity by enabling more trains to be serviced simultaneously and improving support functions. Using operational data, Stantec developed a maintenance capacity optimization model to evaluate performance, forecast demand, and define maximum capacity, reinforcing the delivery of safe, reliable, and cost effective transit operations that improve efficiency and rider experience.