County Connector ridership increases since launch in December

Feb 19, 2019 | 4:30 AM

The County Connector has been busy transporting residents of the Peace since it began service in December.

Director of Community Living for the City Arlen Miller provided an update on the service during Tuesday’s committee meeting.

Miller says the Connector is picking up more riders every month, and residents are asking for expanded services.

“For the month of December there were 77 riders who took a trip to the north and back into the city,” says Miller. “For January it was 164 riders, and as of February 8th, it was 53 riders. So, the trend is upward, and ridership is increasing.”

Miller explains some of the most popular spots where the Connector loads up on riders are on 99th Street and 101 Avenue in Clairmont, along with the Lakeview Senior Home. In Sexsmith, 100 Avenue was a popular pick-up location, as well as 103 Street at Heritage Point.

Miller notes that residents have been asking about if the service will be expanded.

“It is positive feedback we’re hearing, and they’re actually asking if we’d consider expanding the service, including weekend service and more regular trips to Sexsmith, and earlier trips to Sexsmith so that would allow people who work in the city to jump on the bus and make it to work on time – and also, service to Whispering Ridge.”

On March 12, the Regional Advisory Committee will have a meeting to discuss how the service is doing, and how the Connector might be expanded.

Another update on the service will be provided in late March.

by Justin Dionne