The City of Pembroke is a few short days away from the first public transit system to hit the streets since 2014. Earlier this week the media and a handful of dignitaries got a chance to get a sneak peek at how the system is going to operate and to ask questions about how this solution is going to move the fine folks of Pembroke around in a way not yet seen in these parts.
Rather than the traditional exhaust belching buses that are usually put in place for similar transit systems, the service boasts three brand new Dodge ProMaster vehicles. These vans, which can accommodate up to eight passengers including two wheelchair spaces, are provided by Mobility Transportation Specialists (MTS.)
What’s particularly unique about this service is that it will feature “On Demand” ridership rather than the traditional standing at the bus stop type of service we have all experienced at some time or another. Users will download the Blaise Transit App to their phone (available at www.ortc.ca) and request a ride at at date and time that is required by the user. For those who are technically challenged or simply prefer to hear a friendly voice, the service can be ordered by calling 613-631-1766.
At a press conference held at Algonquin College; a fitting venue as students will be major benefactors from this long awaited alternative to hoofing it, Director of Corporate Services for the City of Pembroke and champion of the 5 year long planning stage Angela Lochtie along side Deputy Mayor Brian Abdallah laid out the plan.
Audio PlayerThe cost per use of the service is $5 per ride and each of the “virtual stops” along the route will be no more than a 400 metres or a 5 minute walk from the users final destination. Rides can be book a few minutes prior to need or days in advance and rather than wondering when the bus will arrive, users can track the vehicle’s progress on their phones right until the moment it stops for pick up.
Sophie Leblanc, Head of Business Development with Blaise transit who was awarded the contract for the service says that one of the advantages to the digital platform is the ability to track usage metrics and gauge who is using the service and who isn’t. This will be helpful when tweaking the plan as the pilot stage progresses:
Audio PlayerAmong those on hand was Kristen Nieme, Director of Education from the Renfrew County District School Board. Niemi praised the long awaited service saying that she sees it as a means of community strengthening.
Audio PlayerNieme says it could be a game changer when it comes to decisions students can now make about how to get to and from part time jobs or extracurricular activities:
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Pembroke Mayor Ron Gervais who has long supported the project is guardedly optimistic about the endeavour and is looking forward to seeing the metrics as they unfold during the pilot run:
Audio PlayerThe first bus hits the street on Tuesday, August 5th when this innovative and long awaited transit service will come to life for the first run.
Please head to www.ORTC.ca for all the information you will need regarding the service.
(Written By: Richard Evans)