The Ministry of Transport is pleased to provide an update on investments made to enhance the Department of Public Transportation’s infrastructure and work-life experience.
The Ministry can advise that recent investments have been made to improve the existing bus fleet, including air conditioning upgrades, drivetrain refurbishments, and new driver seats. Funds have also been allocated towards infrastructure improvements, such as a new operators’ facility at the St. George’s depot and renovation of the garage staff facilities at the Ft. Langton depot, which are over 30 years old.
The Department of Public Transportation (DPT) Headquarters has also undergone improvements, which include extensive cleaning and pressure washing of the buildings, driveway repairs, as well as the removal and disposal of 13 disused buses. Also, where previously all buses had to be manually washed by staff members, repairs made to the Bus Washing Facility will save time and allow workers to focus their efforts on other tasks. Planning is underway for the refurbishment and upgrade of the staff cafeteria, spray paint booth, and bus washer.
As we make improvements to enhance the work lives of DPT staff, we also continue working toward modernizing public transportation by introducing digital fare media and new electric buses. These initiatives will improve the passenger experience and lower the amount of harmful emissions entering our atmosphere.
Concerning employment opportunities, the Ministry can also advise that the Department is in the process of ensuring that adequate human resources are being allocated to ensure that the department and subsequent bus service is running as efficiently as possible, and allows for all necessary adjustments to the current bus schedule which is 25 years old. In addition, all relevant staff members will undergo the necessary training to operate and maintain the new fleet of electric buses.
Lastly and most importantly, the Ministry of Transport wishes to thank the team at the Department of Public Transportation for their hard work, dedication, and for safely transporting passengers across our island.