New Start for Transit in Port Alberni

PORT ALBERNI – Starting August 26, 2012 public transit in Port Alberni will be more streamlined and convenient. BC Transit will introduce a completely revamped system offering direct routes, more trips and timed transit connections.

Port Alberni’s new system has been designed so that buses meet at the new BC Transit exchange at Redford and 12 Avenue, which gives passengers time to transfer before all three buses continue on their routes. The changes will also improve the frequency of trips from the current 60 minutes to 45 minutes, allowing for more travel options Monday through Saturday.

The transit improvements in Port Alberni will include a fourth route to bolster consistency on evenings and on Sundays.

Two new shelters will be installed at the BC Transit exchange at Redford and 12 Avenue. The covered shelters have benches and relevant signage to keep passengers well informed on major destinations.

“The new system marks a positive step forward for the people of Port Alberni,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Blair Lekstrom. “Our goal is to make public transit a more convenient and affordable alternative than driving.”

“Our transit schedule improvements come at no extra cost to taxpayers and the shelters we are building at the new exchange will draw more awareness and greater ridership to the already well-used Port Alberni transit system,” said Mayor John Douglas.

“Port Alberni is one of BC Transit’s strongest performers in customers per hour,” said BC Transit President and CEO Manuel Achadinha. “The new schedule will increase frequency for our passengers and will make transit more efficient and effective than ever in Port Alberni.”

Advisory Highlights:
>New system with 45 minute frequency
>New transit exchange at Redford and 12th Avenue

For more information on transit in Port Alberni consult our website www.bctransit/regions/pta or call 250.723.2441.

Media Contact:

Meribeth Burton
Corporate Spokesperson | BC Transit
d: 250.995.5720
c: 250.507.8145
meribeth_burton@bctransit.com
www.bctransit.com