FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Middlesex County Connect: Bridging Communities with New Transit Route Launch
Middlesex County, April 8, 2024 – Today marks the launch of Middlesex County’s newest inter-community transit route, offering connectivity between Dorchester, London, and St. Thomas. The new Middlesex County Connect route aims to address the growing need for affordable, accessible, and convenient transportation options for residents and visitors alike, marking a significant milestone in enhancing regional mobility.
Reflecting on the significance of the new transit initiative, Middlesex County Warden Aina DeViet remarked, "Today marks a momentous occasion for Middlesex County and its neighbouring communities. By working together, we have created a vital link that will improve the lives of residents and contribute to the economic vitality of our region. With the inclusion of Dorchester, London, and St. Thomas route into a broader transit network, individuals can now enjoy enhanced convenience and mobility throughout the region.”
Echoing Warden DeViet's sentiments, St. Thomas Mayor Joe Preston expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This transformative transit route will seamlessly connect the region like never before, heralding a new era of accessibility, convenience, and progress for our residents. We thank Middlesex County for being such great partners in this initiative, which exemplifies a shared vision for sustainable growth, improved connectivity, and enhanced quality of life for everyone in our region.”
Mayor Josh Morgan of London highlighted the collaborative effort behind the initiative, stating, “Today's launch of the Middlesex County Connect route is a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven initiatives. This is a significant step forward in our shared commitment to enhancing regional mobility and connectivity. By bridging our communities with accessible transportation, we are fostering stronger bonds and opening up new opportunities for our residents to thrive."
Operated by Voyago, the new route will run Monday through Saturday, offering commuters four round trips per day, with two in the morning and two in the afternoon. Morning service will operate from 6:10 am to 10:25 am, while afternoon service will run from 3:00 pm to 7:10 pm on weekdays, and from 8:10 am to 12:25 pm and 3:00 pm to 7:10 pm on Saturdays. The route will begin at the FlightExec Centre in Dorchester, passing through London with stops at Wilton Grove Industrial Park and White Oaks Mall. Continuing towards St. Thomas, it will stop at Valleyview Home and the industrial area before reaching the Railway City Transit Hub. After completing the trip to St. Thomas, the route will offer a return trip.
Fares for a one-way trip on all Middlesex County Connect routes, including the new route, are set at $5. Children aged 5 and under, veterans, and support persons ride free of charge. Passengers can conveniently pay fares using cash or credit/debit payment on the bus. Additionally, passengers can take advantage of pre-booking and live tracking of the bus through the free Blaise Transit app. The bus is equipped with a wheelchair lift and features 16 seats, including 2 wheelchair-accessible spots.
More information regarding Middlesex County Connect routes, schedules, and fares can be found at www.middlesex.ca/ct
Note: The information provided in this news release is accurate as of the date of issuance and is subject to change as Middlesex County Connect services continue to evolve.
Middlesex County Connect
The Middlesex County Connect inter-community transit service has been operating since September 2020. It has been made possible through funding provided by the Government of Ontario's Community Transportation Grant Program.
Voyago, our service provider, currently operates the following Middlesex County Connect round-trip bus routes:
Route 1: Lucan, Ilderton, Arva, and London (weekdays only)
Route 2: Woodstock, Ingersoll, Putnam, Dorchester, and London (weekdays only)
Route 3: Dorchester, London, and St. Thomas (Monday to Saturday)
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MEDIA CONTACT:
Middlesex County Media Relations Legislative Services Division