With the funding, the much-loved Mount Barker on-demand bus service in South Australia will be made permanent, with more than $2 million allocated annually to fund the service.
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Since its launch in January 2020, over half a million trips have been taken on the service by Mount Barker, Nairne and Littlehampton commuters, averaging about 8000 trips every month.
Keoride has maintained a 98 per cent customer satisfaction rating and is the fastest growing on demand public transport service in Australia.
“Hills residents have embraced the Keoride service since it began four years ago, whether as a dedicated transport option or a flexible ‘first mile/last mile’ service to connect to Adelaide Metro bus routes at the two Mount Barker Park ‘n’ Rides,” transport minister Tom Koutsantonis says.
“With such strong support and enthusiasm from both local Hills residents and commuters for this service, I am pleased to be able to lock it in as a permanent, ongoing Adelaide Metro service.”
Following the successful trial period, the Mount Barker on-demand service will be integrated into the Hills Metropolitan bus services contract.
A further $2.38 million has been locked in to upgrade the Mount Barker depot, including the purchase of six new electric buses.
“The additional six electric buses, which are expected to arrive by the end of the year, will help us to keep up with demand and cut down waiting times, ensuring a seamless, reliable and quick public transport option for all,” Koutsantonis says.
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