'I'm usually out all day running around': Fraser Valley transit strike closing in on B.C. record

A transit strike impacting communities in the eastern Fraser Valley could soon set a record for the longest transit strike in provincial history.

A transit strike impacting communities in the eastern Fraser Valley could soon set a record for the longest transit strike in provincial history.

BC Transit drivers have been off the job since March 20 -- and in the nearly four months since-- have been at an impasse with First Transit, the private company contracted to run bus service in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Hope and points in between.

In early June, the province appointed mediator Vince Ready to help the two sides resolve the dispute, but the two sides don't appear any closer to a deal.

For many who relied on the service for everything from school to work to medical appointments, the only option they have now is to walk.

"Errands, trying to go to work, that kind of thing. It's been really difficult. And walking around in this heat has been more so," said 62-year-old Chilliwack resident Joanne Michalce, who says it's not uncommon for her to walk for hours in temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius.

The impacted communities are not known for their walkability -- and there are vast distances between them.

When Shameelah Samut had a baby seven months ago, she relied on transit for appointments, groceries and baby supplies.