Passengers unable to use the tap system at SkyTrain stations will be accommodated by a new solution TransLink has committed to have in place in approximately 18 months.

The workaround was approved by TransLink's board of directors at its annual general meeting Thursday.

"We've spent the last few months looking at a range of options and identifying the one that works well for our customers and makes the most technical and financial sense," TransLink CEO Kevin Desmond said in a statement Thursday.

TransLink has committed to having its solution in place within 18 months. (TransLink)

Disability and seniors' advocates had lobbied the transit authority to improve accessibility after the new tap system was found to prove impossible to use for some passengers.

The solution, TransLink said, will involve a long-range proximity sensor at a stand-alone door located at accessible entrances.

However, In the near term, TransLink says it will proceed with full gate closure by the end of July.

In the interim, customers unable to use tap, will be offered a number of options, including phoning in advance of their travel to arrange for assistance, and the provision of an assisted device to aid use of the tap.