New bus service 976 to provide commuters with additional travel option
 

The renewal of Bukit Panjang LRT (BPLRT) is on track for completion by 2024. Meanwhile, SMRT has intensified maintenance of the BPLRT, resulting in BPLRT’s higher reliability. Since April 2019, LTA, SMRT and system supplier Bombardier Transport have begun installing the new signalling system. Software testing for the new Communications-Based Train Control (CBTC) signalling system has also started in Bombardier Transportation’s overseas test laboratories.
 
2 Separately, LTA has reviewed the current transport services in Bukit Panjang and will implement a number of changes to further enhance service. The changes will take effect soon:
 
a. First, the existing peak-hour bus service BPS1 will be upgraded to a new full-day bus Service 976.  This will enhance connectivity between Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang and will commence from 10 November 2019. Service 976 will operate between Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang, and provides an additional travel option for commuters using the BPLRT network. This new service will also enhance connectivity from Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang to the schools along Bukit Panjang Ring Road, ITE College West, and other local amenities such as the upcoming polyclinic and hawker centre in Senja. This new service will operate daily (including public holidays) from 5.30am to 12.30am from Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange, and from 5.50am to 12.50am from Bukit Panjang Integrated Transport Hub (BPITH). Please refer here for more details of the service route and bus stops served by Service 976. 
 
b. Second, BPLRT will operate on one loop (counter-clockwise loop on Service B via Petir Station) during off-peak hours starting from 1 December 2019. This will better match supply with demand, without affecting service to commuters.
 
3 There will be no change to BPLRT services during morning and evening peak periods on weekdays. 
 
4 Announcements on the service change will be made at all LRT stations, and additional SMRT station staff will be deployed to provide assistance to commuters during the adjustment period. Updates will be available on SMRT’s website, Facebook page, Twitter feed, and the SMRTConnect app. Commuters are advised to cater for additional travel time when travelling during the affected time periods.
 
5 In addition to the LRT and Service 976, commuters can also take Services 67, 190, 974, 975 and 983 for their travels to and from Choa Chu Kang Bus Interchange / MRT Station.
 
6 We thank commuters for their patience as we work towards improving public transport journeys through the BPLRT renewal project.