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Transit service to launch Jan. 20
The Tri-Community Transit is getting ready for its launch, expected to take place on January 20.
The Transit – which is a pilot project running until the end of June - offers a rural service to take riders from designated pickup points in Carstairs, Cremona and Didsbury to appointments and activities in other eligible communities.
“This is a new satellite project of Rocky View Regional Handibus Society, providing an out of town shared ride service for those without transportation to appointments or social activities,” said Robbin Bowman, director of FCSS with the Town of Carstairs.
The fleet of 11 vehicles are wheelchair accessible, she added.
Fares vary with distance travelled and are calculated at a reasonable cost of $.30 per kilometre. “Exact price will be provided when making bookings,” said Bowman. “Additional subsidies may be available.”
For example, the mileage to travel to the Peter Lougheed hospital from Carstairs is approximately 130 kilometres, round trip.
“That would cost about $42,” said Bowman.
Riders will pay when their transportation begins. “Drivers can accept cash or cheque and receipts can be issued by dispatch,” she noted. “A fare may still be charged if there is a failure to cancel a trip with adequate notice.”
Carstairs resident Patti Tickell – who has multiple sclerosis - has been a “huge advocate” for the service, and has played a part in getting it on board.
“Most of my medical appointments are in Calgary, and I’ve had to depend upon my husband or friends to get me there,” Tickell said. “ This transportation service will really help with getting out.”
She said that on a good day, she can drive a distance of “maybe 20 minutes. During the last six months, I’ve been able to drive just in downtown Carstairs,” Tickell said.
“I would love to be the first person getting on that bus,” she added.
Another benefit of the service is that riders can maintain their sense of independence, without relying on others. “Some seniors don’t have family living close by to rely on,” said Tanya Shand, director of FCSS with the Village of Cremona. “This allows them to live on their own and get into the city for medical appointments, etcetera.
“Our hope for all three communities is to have it utilized on a regular basis.”
Pickup locations are: Carstairs town office, A Little Somethin’ Somethin’ Café & Bakery in Cremona and Didsbury Hospital.
Passengers must complete a registration form within 10 days of starting service. The form is available online at www.rockyviewbus.ca or by calling 1-877-389-2886.
Bookings can be made by calling toll-free 1-877-389-2886 between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. weekdays. “They require 24 hours notice to organize your trip and they take bookings up to three weeks in advance,” Bowman said.
At the end of June, the advisory committee will evaluate the progress on the pilot and make a decision as to whether to continue.
“The program’s success depends upon the usage numbers,” said Bowman.
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