BC Transit is partnering with the City of Kelowna to move forward with an On-Demand service that will give transit customers in the Crawford neighbourhood the convenience of using a mobility app to book a pick-up by a BC Transit-operated vehicle. A phone-in option will also be available to book rides.
A negotiated request for proposals (NRFP) was issued as part of a competitive selection process to secure the technology system for the service. The NRFP will close on June 9, 2023, and a contract award for the system is anticipated this summer.
On-Demand is expected to be available in early 2024. The system will operate in a network of designated stops within the Crawford area to provide transit when customers need it. Once in service, customers can request a ride that begins and ends within the Crawford area, or to and from the Mission Rec Transit Exchange. Other benefits to customers could include:
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shorter wait and travel times;
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direct route trips;
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increased access to areas within the neighbourhood that have limited transit service; and
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increased service availability during off-peak times, particularly during the evenings and weekends.
BC Transit and the City of Kelowna will provide further engagement with the Crawford neighbourhood in the coming months.
On-Demand is being funded by BC Transit and the City of Kelowna. If successful, the service could expand to other locations and communities around the province.
Quotes below.
QUOTES:
Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure
“This On-Demand service will provide transit users in the Crawford neighbourhood with a travel option that reduces wait and commuting times, provides direct route trips within the neighbourhood and allows people to spend more time with family and friends. I’m pleased to see progress on this flexible and responsive service that will help expand public transit access for many people in the area.”
Erinn Pinkerton, BC Transit’s President and CEO
“On-Demand is BC Transit’s flexible transit option that offers on-request service, helping people save time and commute in a safe and affordable way. This service offers a daily convenience that will benefit so many people in the Crawford neighbourhood, and I’m excited to see the project move forward.”
Tom Dyas, Mayor, Kelowna
“One of Council’s priorities is to improve transportation in the city and that incudes transit service, so news of On-Demand coming to the Crawford neighbourhood could not come at a better time. Offering the ease and flexibility of this service will make public transit a more viable option for Kelowna residents which is something we are very excited about.”
For more information visit: https://www.bctransit.com
