Image Credit: Northern Development
transportation study

Transportation study hears challenges from Northerners

Aug 29, 2023 | 1:42 PM

PRINCE GEORGE — The Northern BC Inter-Community Transportation Study was initiated by Northern Development to gather feedback on existing transportation options available in Northern B.C. and to seek input on what additional transportation priorities should be considered. The study focused on the connections between Northern B.C. communities and in rural areas not served by existing public transportation.

One key facet of this study is finding out what respondents thought are the gaps in the system, and there were three main concerns. Lack of affordable transportation options and lack of frequency and connection to neighbouring communities were indicated as the top three significant challenges.

In this study, there were six aspects of service that had the highest levels of dissatisfaction, according to survey respondents.

The six aspects were:

  • Trip or service frequency,
  • Days of the week of operation,
  • Closeness of transportation services (origin & destination),
  • Accessibility for people with a disability, and
  • Access to information on services.

Awareness and education of the existing services was also something that was highlighted in the study, and this map shows existing services in the North.

Image Credit: Northern Development

Medical services were also a key concern among respondents, with respondents saying there is not enough service, making it hard to meet appointments or return home.

Northern Development says that several actions could be undertaken to address the challenges and opportunities identified in the study including improving communication and coordination. To access the full study, it is available on Northern Development’s website and can be found HERE.

Twitter: @AdamBerls

Email: Adam.Berls@pattisonmedia.com