By Rosalind Russell – Last year, an Elliot Lake researcher, Rachel Barber, conducted a study of Elliot Lake’s public bus service with a focus on adult healthcare access via public transportation in the city.
During the online presentation, she says for older adults who are unable to drive, barrier-free public transportation to healthcare facilities is crucial in ensuring they can access healthcare appointments.
For example, she pointed out that walking to a bus stop is often overlooked when considering transportation and its access to the public.
She adds while this winter has been relatively mild, the clearing of snow continues to be an issue raised by the public adding the handi-bus access is separate from the municipal bus system, but users must provide advance notice, which makes the service inaccessible for some.
Barber concludes despite urban shrinkage; Elliot Lake provides a transit service with excellent coverage and many age-friendly features.
On Feb. 27, 2023, Elliot Lake City Council authorized the purchase of three new buses for $439,500 plus HST, which arrived a few weeks ago.
Last July, Elliot Lake City council also authorized the expenditure of $57,588.00 plus HST for a consultant’s transit review, which will utilize the information provided through Barber’s study.
It was pointed out that review is not connected to Barber’s study.
Photo: Busing in Elliot Lake gets an excellent mark, but there is still room for improvement, such as access at bus stops and snow removal. Photo provided by City of Elliot Lake.
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