Maroc - MYMUSKOKANOW.COM - A La Une - 13/Aug 15:59

District moving forward with demand-responsive transit system

The District of Muskoka has outlined the first phase of its new demand-responsive transit system.  Blaise Transit Ltd., a transit-focused software company from Saint-Hubert, Que., was chosen as the district's partner for the program earlier this year.  In a report discussed during the Aug. 8 district council meeting, Adele Gant, the district's transportation network and community grants coordinator, said they plan to launch the first phase of the program in September. Blaise would provide the software for the "test phase" with the district's existing contract with Hammond Transportation for the Corridor 11 bus amended to include the new demand-responsive system.  She explained a demand-responsive system is, "an alternative form of transit delivery where passengers' travel demands determine the vehicle routes rather than a traditional fixed-stop route."  Gant said the app will be available on the Apple or Google Play stores which will feature, among other things, an up-to-date tracking system that will let waiting passengers know about delays as soon as they happen. She added there will also be a website and a district-operated phone number that can be used to book a ride.  Gant outlined how, initially, the service will feature one vehicle and one driver through Hammond. It will primarily cover Bracebridge and Gravenhurst with connections to the Corridor 11 bus and Bracebridge Transit. Gant added it will run from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday to Friday.  Gant pointed out the existing transit routes will not be changed as part of the program's rollout. "What this is meant to do is just fill in the rural gaps where people are just waiting that can't get to the existing transit," she continued.  It will cost adults $5 per ride or $70 for a 30 pass while the price for anyone between 12 and 18 years old will be $3 per ride or $42 for a month-long pass. Both options will be free for children under 12 - so long as they're accompanied by an adult - and for a support person travelling with someone who has accessibility needs.  Gant said Blaise's system allows for rides to be paid for by a third-party, like a not-for-profit.  Gant explained the initial phase will continue until March 2025, which is when the district's existing contract with Hammond ends along with its funding through Ontario's Provincial Community Transportation Grant.  The second phase could see changes made to how much rides and passes cost, but Gant said that will be discussed at a future Community and Planning Service Committee meeting. She added they will also be eligible for more funding, which may allow them to have a district-operated fleet while Blaise handles the behind-the-scenes processes.  Gant detailed how they could receive close to $2 million through the federal government's Rural Transit Solutions program. She said the district is waiting for a response after applying in February.   She added district staff have been speaking with staff from the area municipalities, nearby First Nations, existing transit operators, and not-for-profits like Gravenhurst Against Poverty and Muskoka Seniors.  "We've been in meetings with Metrolinx who are very excited about this project," added Gant.  She estimates the initial six-month phase will cost the district just over $160,000 factoring in the new technology that will be installed on the buses and the roll-out of an advertising campaign with revenue projected to exceed $195,000.  However, Gant says council will have a more fulsome conversation about how much the project cost when they begin discussing next year's budget.  The post District moving forward with demand-responsive transit system appeared first on My Muskoka Now.