Transit System: Prince George
Prince George – BC Transit is planning the introduction of 2,500 new service hours in Prince George following public consultations in the Fall of 2016. The proposed expansion in September 2017 will be funded through a partnership between the City of Prince George, the Province of BC, and BC Transit.
“The Province of BC continues to work to expand and increase public transit options for all British Columbians, including right here in Prince George,” said Prince George Mackenzie MLA Mike Morris. “This announcement builds on the introduction of additional statutory holiday service late last year, and will improve transit connectivity for new and current transit users alike on these holidays.”
“These additional service hours are just one step we are taking to improve public transportation in Prince George,” said Prince George Valemount MLA Shirley Bond. “Infrastructure initiatives include a new operations and maintenance facility, while technology innovations include closed circuit television and automatic passenger counters. These investments represent a commitment to boosting the efficiency, safety and usability of our transit system.”
The recommendations suggest using the new hours to provide additional service on Sundays and statutory holidays. The recommendations also include minor route changes to improve efficiency, provide schedule consistency, and decrease travel time on some routes. The recommendations are subject to final approval by the City of Prince George.
“City Council wants to ensure there are sustainable, efficient, and effective transportation options for residents and visitors in Prince George, and enhancing the reliability and frequency of public transit is part of our strategy,” said Lyn Hall, Mayor of Prince George. “By establishing the most seamless transit experience possible, we are helping to achieve this goal.”
The recommended use of the new hours was created using information from public consultations in October 2016. The consultation included an online survey with 450 responses, and in-person feedback at transit exchanges and Talktober events hosted by the City of Prince George.
“Adding additional service allows us to support Prince George’s objective to build a more sustainable community,” said Manuel Achadinha, BC Transit President and Chief Executive Officer. “We look forward to working with our community partners to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of transit services to better connect people and the community.”
The conventional Prince George Transit System officially began operation in 1978 with 11 buses. The system has grown from providing 205,000 rides in 1984/1985 to approximately two million rides annually in 2015/2016 with 27 buses serving 16 bus routes and over 450 bus stops.
For more information on the Prince George Transit System, please visit bctransit.com/prince-george or call 250-563-0011.
Media Contacts:
Jonathon Dyck, BC Transit, communications manager
media@bctransit.com, 250-995-5720
