Government of Canada and Saskatoon Transit unveil three new articulated buses

SASKATOON, SK, June 4 /CNW Telbec/ - Thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada's Public Transit Capital Trust Fund, Saskatoon Transit unveiled three new articulated buses today that will be rolling down city streets soon. Saskatoon is the first city in Saskatchewan to put these buses on the road.

"The Government of Canada is proud to invest in modern infrastructure projects like this one that enhance the quality of life for residents and promote the use of public transit," said Brad Trost, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Humboldt. "By adding these articulated buses to Saskatoon's transit fleet, we hope more people will leave their cars at home and use these new transportation options."

"I congratulate Saskatoon Transit for the new additions to its fleet," said Saskatchewan Enterprise Minister Ken Cheveldayoff, on behalf of Municipal Affairs Minister Jeremy Harrison. "It shows that the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Transit are providing a service that responds to the needs of users.

Articulated buses are longer buses that are hinged in the middle, so they can carry more passengers, while still being able to navigate city streets. Saskatoon Transit has purchased three articulated buses, each with seating for 60 passengers and standing room for approximately another 60. Because of the higher capacity, these buses will be used on Direct Access Rapid Transit routes, which typically have the highest number of riders.

The Government of Canada, through the Public Transit Capital Trust 2008, contributed over $2 million toward the purchase of the buses. In Budget 2008, the Government of Canada provided $500 million for the Public Transit Capital Trust, which helps to fund public transit projects across the country, such as rapid transit, transit buses, and high-occupancy vehicle and bicycle lanes.

"We hope transit riders will enjoy these new buses," noted Mayor Donald Atchison. "It's quite the experience and I know it will certainly reduce overcrowding on some of the more popular bus routes. Our purchase of these buses just confirms our commitment to give transit a stronger presence in our community and encourage more people to take the bus."

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For further information: Mitch Riabko, Transit Manager, Saskatoon Transit, [phone]; Murray Heinzlmeir, Office of Brad Trost, MP, Saskatoon-Humboldt, [phone]; Media Relations, Transport Canada, Ottawa, [phone]; Jeff Welke, Saskatchewan Ministry of Municipal Affairs, [phone]