submitted by Jill Sturdy, Municipality of NG
North Grenville’s Council has chosen a name and a logo for the new, on-demand public transit system: NGtransit.
“The name, NGtransit, clearly represents the expanded local service we are offering. The logo ties in key elements, such as the NG Green and the somewhat square shape of our Municipality,” said Mayor Nancy Peckford. “We really appreciate all the suggestions we received from the community!”
“Given the absence of any private taxi or rideshare options in North Grenville, and the size of our Municipality, expanding our current service makes sense. After extensive consultation with rural transit experts, we are thrilled to be launching NGtransit in the new year so that we can better respond to the needs of more residents and businesses,” emphasized Mayor Peckford.
Significant funding to support the municipal transit system operating costs comes from the provincial Gas Tax. As the system grows, the Province will provide more dollars based on ridership.
NGtransit will launch on January 15, 2024. It will significantly expand upon the current limited service that the Municipality has only been offering to seniors and persons with disabilities since 2019. The new service will be available seven days a week to residents of all ages and abilities who need to travel within North Grenville’s boundaries. Students 12 years of age and older will be able to ride independently.
Individuals will be able to book transit in three easy ways: by phone, online or through the new Blaise app (coming soon).
Pre-registration for the service is mandatory for anyone wishing to book, which can be done online or via phone effective January 8, 2024.
Riders may book their trip up to one (1) month in advance, and they must book no less than thirty (30) minutes in advance. All rides are subject to availability, and the Municipality is encouraging users to book well in advance. Same day trips will be accommodated as long as there is space. Riders will receive an initial confirmation as soon as they book their trip, with a re-confirmation of their trip details 30 minutes before their trip.
Fees are $5 per ride for adults and $3 for youth (ages 12 – 19). Youth aged 11 and under are free.
First Ride Free
The Municipality will be offering free passes for residents to use for their first ride. Registration is still required to use the pass. Passes will be available at the North Grenville Municipal Centre, North Grenville Public Library, Kemptville Youth Centre, Seniors Community Services and Community Living.
North Grenville’s current accessible transit service for seniors and persons with disabilities is still active and will continue to be offered to eligible users until the new system is launched.
Details about the transit system are available at www.northgrenville.ca/transit.
