MEDIA RELEASE

Bus Interchange anniversary today

Nearly 1.7 million people have caught a bus from Christchurch’s Bus Interchange since it opened a year ago today.

The $53 million facility opened in stages last year. The first stage opened on May 25 with half of the 16 bus bays operational while construction continued in the second stage area. The remaining bus bays became operational in early October.

Environment Canterbury commissioner Rex Williams said public transport was an important part of creating a modern, vibrant, people-friendly city. “It’s great to see people embracing public transport. Since the complex opened, nearly 1.7 million people have taken the opportunity to board a bus there.”

Williams said more and more people were catching buses.

“We’re starting to see signs of the drop in patronage easing with a growth of 5.8 per cent in April 2016 compared to April 2015. Overall, for January to April this year, patronage is down 0.7 per cent compared to the same time last year. The drop is flattening off and we are seeing consistent increases.”

“I’d like to thank everyone who catches the bus, even if it is only once every so often,” he said. “You’re supporting the regeneration of Christchurch and your bus trips free up the roads.”

ENDS

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