Seeking public feedback on public transport

Public transport is in the spotlight as Horizons Regional Council asks residents whether it’s on track with the draft Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP).

The draft RPTP is out for consultation until 2 April 2015 with opportunities for people to speak to their submissions scheduled for Monday 20 and Tuesday 21st April.

It covers all aspects of the Region’s public transport network including bus services, health shuttles and the Total Mobility scheme providing discounted taxi services for people who are unable to use other forms of public transport.

Chair of Horizons’ Passenger Transport Committee Rachel Keedwell says revising the RPTP will bring it in line with Central Government’s Public Transport Operating Model (PTOM) under which services must be grouped into transport ‘units’ to be delivered by contracted providers.

Its review also provides an opportunity to include enhancements to the Palmerston North and Feilding bus networks, potential bus services between Wanganui and Palmerston North and Levin and Waikanae, and policy around Total Mobility services.

“Public transport is vital to the way we move as a Region. As a Council our long-term vision is to provide a land transport system that is environmentally sound, safe, efficient, sustainable and accessible. Public transport is a major part of that,” Ms Keedwell says.

“The draft Regional Public Transport Plan outlines our Region's essential transport services, the services Horizons will provide or financially support and any policies that apply to these services. It shapes the future of public transport in our Region and I encourage anyone with an interest to have a read and have their say.”

The full draft Regional Public Transport Plan and summary document are available to view via the passenger transport section of Horizons’ website www.horizons.govt.nz

Hard copies are also available from Horizons’ transport team. Requests for these documents can be made via toll free number 0508 800 800.

ENDS

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