MERRITT – The City of Merritt and BC Transit are delighted to announce
ridership is on the rise – up 16.2% over last year. In its recently published
annual report, BC Transit recorded 58,959 passenger trips in 2012/13 compared
with 50,728 trips in 2011/12.
In 2012 Merritt Transit celebrated its 5th anniversary. The system continues
to grow both in ridership and coverage. Two years ago, evening weekday and Saturday
service were introduced delivering 15 service hours daily. Customers have responded
to the service expansion and have relied more heavily on public transportation.
“We are encouraged by the strong and steady growth of the transit system
in Merritt,” said BC Transit President and CEO Manuel Achadinha. “Together
with our partners the City of Merritt, the Thompson Nicola Regional District
and the Lower Nicola Indian Band, we see the increased passenger trips as a
validation that our continued effort to make public transit efficient and effective
is working.”
“These increases in transit ridership will help drive business and industry
in our community,” said Merritt Mayor Susan Roline. “We are delighted
to see that with the support and encouragement of our Council, a robust transit
system is proving to be a valued service to the citizens of Merritt.”
“Local residents clearly appreciate the expanded transit services we’ve
seen in the past couple of years,” said Fraser-Nicola MLA Jackie Tegart.
“I’m pleased to see more and more people take advantage of this efficient,
reliable, and environmentally-friendly transit option.”
For more information on routes and schedules please call 250.378.4080 or consult
www.bctransit.com/regions/mer
Media Contact:
Meribeth Burton
Corporate Spokesperson | BC Transit
250.995.5720
meribeth_burton@bctransit.com
