FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Warden and Deputy Warden ride County Connect bus with morning commuters
MIDDLESEX COUNTY, on the morning of Thursday, June 29, 2023, Cathy Burghardt-Jesson, Warden and Aina DeViet, Deputy Warden of Middlesex County hopped on the County Connect bus on route 1 that runs between Lucan, Ilderton, Arva, and London. They visited different stops throughout the route to gain first-hand experience of the County Connect bus service. The pair talked to riders and gathered feedback and ideas to help improve the system. "We are excited to offer the new and improved routes that will better connect our County residents to places near and far," said Warden Cathy Burghardt-Jesson. "I encourage residents to take advantage of the service and make the most of the affordable and accessible transportation option."
Deputy Warden Aina DeViet was in agreement with the Warden and further stated, "It is amazing to see how the bus routes bring convenience, comfort and increased access to post-secondary institutions, employment, medical appointments, social programs and more. It really is a great and affordable way to get in and around the County." The Warden and Deputy Warden are proud to be a part of this important initiative and encourage residents to come out and experience County Connect first-hand.
Middlesex County Connect contributes to the economic development, health, and quality of life for the entire County, bridging the gaps between its towns and cities. “This will create access to previously unavailable job markets and increased participation in the arts and educational opportunities. Seniors can also enjoy its benefits as this is also a great opportunity for them to partake in leisure activities and appointments.” said Cara Finn, Director of Economic Development.
“It was a great honor for us to have the Warden and Deputy Warden test the route and join us on the County Connect bus. Their show of support for the service sends a strong message to the rest of the community," said Cindy Howard, General Manager of Finance and Community Services. “We recognize the role connectivity plays in community well-being, and we are thrilled to be improving the services that our residents can enjoy. We look forward to exploring new opportunities for affordable and convenient transportation options throughout the community." Howard encourages all residents to utilize the inter-community transit service and experience its benefits for themselves.
Fares are $5 for a one-way ride for all routes. Children under five years of age, support persons and veterans ride free. County Connect buses are wheelchair accessible and bike friendly. Middlesex County is currently working on launching an app that would allow County Connect riders to pre-book a trip, pre-pay bus fare, track buses in real time, and receive service alerts, all from their mobile device or internet browser.
More information regarding routes, schedules, and fares can be found at www.middlesex.ca/ct.
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Middlesex County Connect
The County Connect transit service has been made possible through funding provided by the Government of Ontario's Community Transportation Grant Program. Provincial funding for County Connect will be available until March 31, 2025. Voyago is the service provider operating two (2) routes Monday to Friday. There is no service on weekends, statutory holidays or civic holidays.
County Connect has been operating since September 2020 and launched its two new routes on Monday, May 29, 2023:
Route 1: Lucan, Ilderton, Arva, London, and back. This is a new route.
Route 2: Woodstock, Ingersoll, Putnam, Dorchester, London, and back. This route replaced the two routes that existed prior.
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations Legislative Services Division
