Demands for expanded transit have hit a dead-end because of staggering costs.
Vernon council has decided not to provide transit from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week because such a service would have a price tag of $12 million.
“It’s a worthy goal to work towards,” said Coun. Patrick Nicol, adding, though, that the cost makes such a service extension difficult at this time.
Of the $12 million, the city’s portion would be $6,418,000 while the remainder would be picked up by B.C. Transit and Coldstream.
Resident Winnifred Hibbert recently presented council with a 3,191-name petition demanding that transit run from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. seven days a week.
“It’s wonderful that she brought the issue forward,” said Nicol, who was impressed with Hibbert’s argument that improved transit would benefit people trying to get to work.
“Young working people with families can save money by living closer to the core and getting to work and that’s healthy for the community,” said Nicol.
Hibbert’s request will be considered by the city as it reviews the transit future plan and adopts a service strategy based on support from B.C. Transit and the financial ability of the community.
In a related matter, the city and B.C. Transit will review a request for expanded transit in the northeast area of East Hill. This request will be considered as part of determining realigned routes in the transit futures plan.
