EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The need for a rural public transit system in Lunenburg County has been identified frequently by community groups and local businesses, through formal research and by citizen participation at public meetings.

Citizens for Public Transit is a community group of concerned individuals originating in 2006 expressly to promote the development of a public transit system in Lunenburg County. Committee members take great pleasure in presenting this Business Plan for a three year pilot project to establish a system of rural public transit which is affordable, accessible and efficient.

The initial core route proposed is the loop connecting Riverport, Bridgewater, Mahone Bay and Lunenburg. Two buses would operate Monday through Saturday on a set schedule, stopping at established locations and running five (5) times per day in both directions along this route.

The transit system's success would depend on a partnership of the Municipal Councils. Significant financial or in-kind resources are anticipated from Community Services. Additional commitment is being explored with the Federal Rural Secretariat, Green Municipal Fund, and through the Federal Public Transit Capital Trust.

It is proposed that the contract to run the Transit services would be put out to tender to established firms.

The public bus system will have widespread benefit for local business, senior citizens, students, tourists, and rural families currently lacking affordable transportation. Expected outcomes include economic growth and the improved physical, mental and social status of residents. Access to affordable transportation is a key factor in attracting families to move to our communities, and is a primary force in retaining residents, especially young families, youth, and senior citizens within this rural region.