Less traffic chaos hoped for at 2009 PNE

The carnival rides at Playland are ready, along with the exhibits, stage shows, concerts, and the dozens of shopping booths at the Marketplace. And that can mean only one thing — it's PNE time once again in Vancouver.

The 99th Fair at the Pacific National Exhibition opened Saturday and will run through Labour Day, Sept. 7. But before you try to win a stuffed animal or eat a candied apple, PNE fans are advised to think about the best way to get there.

There is a lot of additional bus service to the PNE at this time of year and now for the first time, visitors can also use the newly opened Canada Line to get to bus transfer points, TransLink spokesman Drew Snider told CBC News.

Many people choose to drive to the area of Hastings and Renfrew streets because they believe it's faster, but Snider said taking the bus is ultimately more convenient.

"You're not spending time driving, fighting traffic, finding parking, paying for the parking. That's more money you can spend on [rides] and mini-donuts," Snider said.

PNE parking expanded

People who do choose to drive will likely find heavy congestion in the area, according to Vancouver police spokeswoman Const. Jana McGuinness.

But there have been some improvements for drivers once they get onto the grounds, McGuinness said.

"PNE parking has been significantly increased this year, so there will be much more on-site parking available," McGuinness said.

McGuinness also reminded drivers and passengers to help keep thieves at bay by keeping valuables out of sight after finding a parking spot.