The Provincial Government is taking the first step to bring Island communities together. Hon Carolyn Bertram, Minister of Communities, Cultural Affairs and Labour announced this morning a new transit project which will link Charlottetown and Summerside.
“Islanders have said that they are interested in a regional public transit system; we are very pleased to be able to support this bus route as a response to that call from Islanders,” said Minister Bertram. “Based on forecasted demand, we are confident in both the short-term and long-term success of this initiative. We will look forward to reviewing the project with Trius Tours in 12 months.”
Trius Tours will operate the new service, entitled the 7.5.3 County Line Express, which is scheduled to begin October 27, 2008. The service will run along the main commuter corridor, Highway 2, and connect to Summerside via Route 11. Two buses will be on route, providing timely runs each direction in the morning and afternoon peak periods. The bus will run Monday through Friday, with fares of $7, $5, and $3 one-way, depending on pick-up and drop-off locations.
The service will offer major pick-up / drop-off locations in Charlottetown, Hunter River, Kensington, Summerside and Slemon Park. For customer convenience, there will be additional flag stop location such as Winsloe, Milton, Brookfield, Fredericton, Summerfield and New Annan. Exact times and locations will be announced at a later date.
“This new service will enhance community access and mobility for Islanders,” added Minister Bertram. “This fixed route service will especially be beneficial to those who commute to work, university students, seniors and visitors to Prince Edward Island.”
The benefits of public transit will be seen by both the users and the entire community; benefits include increased mobility, economic and employment access, reduction of green house gas emissions, cleaner air, reduced congestion and saving in many areas.