Have you tried the new bus yet?

Thanks for this, Olive!

HAVE YOU TRIED THE NEW BUS YET?
By Olive Bryanton

Yesterday I tried the new public transit bus for the first time. It was a wonderful experience and I will definitely use it at every opportunity. I boarded the bus at 11:25 am at UPEI (as the schedule said), and after a pleasant ride downtown arrived at the Confederation Centre at 11:50 am again on time according to the schedule. I joined my daughter for lunch and then did some shopping and was ready to catch the 2:00 pm bus back to UPEI. The bus was at the Confederation Centre about 1:45 pm but it does not leave until 2:00 pm, I got back to UPEI at 2:20 pm and again on time and again I enjoyed the experience.

Why did I enjoy the ride on the new public transit bus? I think it was a combinations of things: the relaxation of letting someone else do the driving, the friendliness and helpfulness of the bus driver and the other young man who was monitoring time, answering questions and handing out schedules. Also the passengers were obviously happy and enjoying the ride. Everyone was chatting and making the most of the experience. It was fun to see people standing waiting for the bus in the various locations, and hearing the positive comments and seeing their smiles as they boarded the bus.

One senior had gone on the bus circle to see where the bus stopped and how long it would take to get to where he would be likely to travel most times. When we stopped at various locations people were coming to have a look inside and also to get a schedule. Half of the people on the bus were seniors and they certainly seemed to be enjoying the experience. One senior lady talked about the freedom she now has because she can get from downtown to the Malls anytime she wants, and does not have to rely on family or friends.

I am involved with the Seniors Active Living Centre which is located at the MacLauchlan Arena side of the CARI building, and I look forward to the day when the public transit bus starts making the main door on that side of the CARI facility one of the regular bus stops. This will accommodate the needs of seniors who want to come or are coming to the Seniors Active Living Centre. The bus would not need to stop there in the early morning runs or the last run in each direction. The Centre opens at 9:00 am and closes at 4:00 pm so stops within those times would be very helpful.

It is wonderful to have public transportation and as a senior I really appreciate this option. I hope all seniors will take advantage of this new service. I know it is not perfect yet, but they are working toward a system that will be more frequent in the future. The bus is on time, is distinctive, has the daily newspaper so you can catch up on what is happening in the world or you can enjoy socializing with your fellow passengers both young and old. See you on the bus.