Good afternoon everyone and thank you for coming,
The Department of Public Transportation (DPT) is announcing that effective Monday, 29 April, 2019, the public bus schedule will revert to the one used prior to 18 March, 2019, whilst adjustments are made.
After six weeks of operating the new 2019 bus schedule it has been determined that the change is necessary to thoroughly address concerns with scheduled trip times and rest times for bus operators.
DPT has consolidated feedback from the public and operators on the performance of the 2019 fifty bus schedule, noting challenges with the service frequency and insufficient capacity. The reports include inadequate service during morning and afternoon peak times, over and above what was experienced in the previous schedule. In response, Barnes Corner and Grotto Bay buses will be reinstated, providing additional lift to and from Hamilton.
Additionally, the new schedule did not provide sufficient rest time between trips, presenting health and safety concerns for bus operators and the traveling public, which must be addressed immediately.
This decision was not taken lightly, but is the only recourse to address the concerns and safety of our operators and passengers.
Adjustments were made to the new 2019 schedule to provide additional lift, however, this requires daily coordination of unscheduled work and does not address the issue of rest times for bus operators. A new cut of the schedule is the fastest and proper way to achieve the necessary changes. The reassessment process will take several months to complete, and it is not anticipated that any further changes will occur prior to September 2019.
Restoring the bus fleet remains a priority for DPT in order to mitigate cancellations and meet the demands of the public, our students and visitors. Over the past year the average in service bus count has increased from 50 buses to 65 buses. This was accomplished through a combination of new bus purchases, mid-life refits and out of service repairs. In addition DPT have recently concluded an RFI and is preparing an RFP for the purchase of additional new buses.
Further announcements will be made in due course. The Department of Public Transportation is grateful for your understanding and apologizes for any inconvenience caused.
Thank you.