By Aaron Mahoney (@Mahones93 on Twitter)

Provincial and federal governments helping fill the gaps in rural transport

Oct 31, 2018 | 11:40 AM

ALBERTA – With Greyhound bus service coming to an end on Wednesday, Oct. 31, in the province, rural communities throughout Alberta will have options when it comes to rural bus service.

More than 82 percent of Greyhound’s existing routes are being covered by private carriers that have already enhanced their operations to serve rural and urban communities.

Additionally, the provincial and federal governments will invest up to $2 million per year, over two years, to provide service to small and rural communities. 

A release from the province states the cost-sharing agreement between the two governments will act as an incentive to draw proposals from private carriers to fill remaining service gaps.

“For Albertans in rural, remote and Indigenous communities, bus services have been a lifeline to work, school, vital health care, family and friends,” Minister of Transportation Brian Mason said. “That’s why our government will be working with companies to ensure that service continues across the province. We said we will not leave people stranded by the side of the road.”

What's Happening in Lethbridge this weekend: April 19, 2024

6m ago

What's Happening in Lethbridge this week: April 15, 2024

Apr 15, 2024

Week-in-review: Street sweeping, policing in Coaldale and #SlowYourRoll

Apr 13, 2024

On July 9, Greyhound Canada announced it would end service across the West on Oct. 31, affecting bus service in more than 100 communities across Alberta.

Since then, several other private sector carriers have announced plans to expand their services along some of the more populated routes. 

These companies include:
–    Red Arrow/E-Bus (Diversified Transportation)
–    Northern Express Bus Line
–    Cold Shot
–    Rider Express

Six new pilot projects across the province have received funding through the Rural Transportation Pilot Program to provide more transportation options for people in rural Alberta.