Counties seek feedback on regional transit
WELLINGTON COUNTY – Bruce, Dufferin, Grey, and Wellington County residents can provide feedback on the early findings of a Joint Regional Transit Study until April 14. The short survey is intended to help explore how to better connect and move residents across the counties.
Transit needs are growing across rural communities in the region, urged on by population growth, aging demographics and rising costs, states a news release.
The regional study is assessing if a unified transit network is possible, with the goal of making travel easier for passengers, identifying efficiencies through collaboration, and expanding transit service to areas that currently have limited transportation options.
The first round of engagement revealed opportunities now being explored further:
- transit corridors connecting settlements and key destinations, with services running a minimum of three to four times daily;
- expanded on-demand service through “SMART” to communities not currently served, including residents who do not qualify for specialized transit;
- integration with existing transit systems, including GO Transit, Owen Sound Transit, Guelph Transit, Colltrans, Simcoe LINX, Orangeville Transit and Ride Well, to allow for seamless travel; and
- private sector partnerships with taxis and ridesharing providers.
The follow-up survey asks residents to confirm whether these priorities reflect the needs of their communities. Results will inform a recommended plan to be presented to respective county councils next month.
The survey is available online until April 14 at surveymonkey.com/r/Round2-CommunityEngagement until April 14.
Paper copies of the survey are available at the four county administration buildings and some public libraries.
