Vancouver Rundown Thursday April 17, 2025
Summary
It’s about to get easier for new drivers to get their licenses in B.C. The provincial government is changing the graduated licensing system, getting rid of a second road test. Instead, new drivers will have their records closely reviewed for the first 12 months. It’s hoped the changes will cut down on long wait times for those road tests.
Other news…
Another commercial truck has hit a Lower Mainland overpass and this time, it’s not the first time at a spot in Langley. A box truck failed to make-it under the 232 Street Overpass on Highway One early Wednesday morning. Police have had contact with the driver who didn’t initially stay at the scene. Damage to the overpass is minor.
The City of North Vancouver is increasing its pay parking in the most busy commercial area. The City has approved a new plan that will ding drivers for curb side parking in Central Lonsdale and Lower Lonsdale. The extra money is expected to bolster reserve revenues and ease increases in property taxes.
Those flying through Vancouver International have experienced a third day of significant delays. A shortage of staff including air traffic controllers has resulted in extra waits for both arrivals and departures. YVR had its second-most travelers last year - just over 26 million.
A few clouds but otherwise mainly sunny Thursday. Sunny Friday. A mix of sun and cloud for Saturday with the slight chance of showers. Here are the latest conditions from our private weather station in Surrey.
Top five stories to know
Global News: Changes to B.C.’s Graduated Licensing Program would remove 2nd road test
Vancouver Sun: Police investigating after truck strikes overpass in Langley
Daily Hive: Pay parking coming to Lonsdale streets in North Vancouver starting in September 2025
Surrey Now-Leader: Council votes not to support ALR exclusion for South Surrey golf course
CBC: Police seize 10 kilos of meth, arrest 6 accused of trafficking drugs from B.C. to Manitoba
Business stories to know
Globe & Mail: B.C. group warns that softwood tariffs could lead to soaring U.S. rebuilding costs
Business In Vancouver: Vancouver port sues two marine businesses for oil spill damages
Opinion
Business In Vancouver: Rob Shaw: Gutted org chart signals deeper B.C. health ministry upheaval
Journalism matters
Vancouver Sun: Inside the Mike de Jong insurgency — and how he can win as an independent
That’s cool
Daily Hive: Vancouver's brand-new pastry shop is a slice of Paris, complete with baguette sandwiches
Bonus