New Transit buses

Cornwall Transit has received delivery of three new 30-foot conventional buses, and the buses have been immediately pressed into service. “These low-floor, fully accessible buses are a step forward in our goals of eventually making all conventional bus routes fully accessible for passengers with disabilities,” said Len Tapp, division manager of Cornwall Transit. “Cornwall Transit’s programs and services are in place to help all Cornwall residents, as well as visitors to this city, enjoy freedom of travel throughout the community.”

These buses are the first in Cornwall to be low-floor, fully accessible with a capacity to carry up to two passengers in wheelchairs. When the wheelchair positions are not occupied, the seating capacity will accommodate 32 seated passengers. The lower deck of the buses located between the front and rear doors have 15 passenger seats and the upper deck has 17 passenger seats. An additional 10 standees can be accommodated in the lower deck area only.

The buses are also equipped with passenger-friendly bike racks that can accommodate up to two bikes at a time. This feature is located at the front bumper for best driver attention and will be available for approximately eight months of the year.

Other passenger friendly features include non-skid flooring, a curb height front ramp, kneeling device, yellow padded stanchion bars, blue padded vandal resistant seating, a modernized climate control system, easy-access yellow pull cords and next stop buttons, next stop light and programmable digital destination signs. There is an alarm that automatically asks passengers standing too close to the rear doors while the bus is in motion to stand back for safety reasons.

The new buses are manufactured by ElDorado National and weigh approximately 6,000 lbs. less than a regular 40-foot conventional bus. Each bus has an ISB, 280-horse power, diesel Cummings engine with a regeneration system. This will reduce fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

Public input during the Comprehensive Review of Cornwall suggested that smaller conventional buses be utilized to better accommodate ridership needs during low peak times. The Transit Committee also recommended 30-foot buses and were instrumental in moving this project forward. The new 30-foot buses will replace three aging 40-foot buses (circa 1994) that had a seating capacity of 45 passengers. “The implementation of the very successful 30-minute service has allowed Cornwall Transit ridership to grow by ten percent in the last year,” added Mr. Tapp. “The new buses will further enhance the service.”

City Council supported the use of 30 foot buses and endorsed the purchase at a cost of $335,000 each. The buses are fully funded by different funds available from the provincial and federal governments.

Cornwall Transit’s Asset Management Plan includes the purchase of an additional three 30-foot buses that is pending Council approval of the 2009 budget. Alternate fuel options are being explored. Again, the full cost of the buses is expected to be covered by available provincial and federal funds.

Experience the New Buses for Yourself!

Each of Cornwall Transit’s three routes will have a 30-foot bus in service (one of two buses in service on each route). Passengers began boarding the new 30-foot bus beginning on Earth Day, Wednesday April 22, 2009.

Citizens interested in getting more information on the Cornwall Transit’s new buses, or any services offered are encouraged to visit www.cornwall.ca for further details or call 613-930-2636.