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By Shaun Penner

Second phase of County Connector to begin Monday

Jan 30, 2019 | 4:30 AM

The second phase of the County Connector is set to roll out on Monday, February 4th, with transit services extending to Hythe, Beaverlodge and Wembley.

The project, which officially launched on December 5th with service running between Sexsmith, Clairmont and Grande Prairie, received very positive feedback from the public, says County of Grande Prairie Reeve Leanne Beaupre.

“It’s been a positive experience, and we have certainly had a lot of discussion and questions asked about when the second phase was going to roll out, because there has been a lot of interest in the second phase.”

The pilot project is slated to continue over a two-year period, and an advisory group within the county was established to oversee its viability. Beaupre notes that the committee is always looking for input.

“That group will go through the statistics, as well as go through the comments that we have received back. So, if there is any feedback, we would certainly like to hear about it. From there, we will be making some decisions.”

Beaupre also stated that the county is eager to help residents break down barriers to travelling within the county, especially during winter months when people may not necessarily want to drive on local highways. It can also be useful to people who may not be able to drive.

“For example, (citizens) can go from Beaverlodge to the senior’s home in Lakeview and see neighbours or family. So, it really creates that connection for the whole County of Grande Prairie.”

The project is part the Alberta Transportation Rural Transportation Pilot Program and has already received $640,000 in provincial funding for its operational costs.

“Our government is excited to see the second phase of this important project launch, connecting even more communities in the Grande Prairie region to family and friends, jobs, shopping and medical appointments.” Said Alberta Minister of Transportation, Brian Mason, in a release. “The County Connector is a great example of how our Rural Transportation Pilot Project grant program is helping to provide rural Albertans with affordable, efficient and environmentally-sustainable transportation options.”

Service for phase two will run on Monday, Wednesday and Friday each week. On Monday and Friday, the morning service will begin in Beaverlodge at 9:18 AM, making a stop in Wembley before continuing to Grande Prairie for a 10:08 AM arrival. Afternoon service will begin at 3:00 PM from Grande Prairie, stopping in Wembley before ending in Beaverlodge at 3:52 PM. Wednesdays, service will begin in Hythe at 9:00 AM, and end there at 4:10 PM.

The schedule for phase one remains unchanged.

A one-way ride on the County Connector will cost $5 for anyone 12-years-old and up. Kids 11-and-under ride for free.

For more information about routes, schedules and ticketing, please visit their website.

by Shaun Penner