Middlesex County Connect Launches Employer Toolkit to Enhance Employee Commutes

Posted Date
March 1, 2024
Employer toolkit header

Middlesex County Connect Launches Employer Toolkit to Enhance Employee Commutes

Middlesex County, March 1, 2024 - Middlesex County Connect announces the launch of its innovative Employer Toolkit, aimed at assisting businesses in promoting sustainable commuting options among their employees.

To facilitate the integration of Middlesex County Connect into workplace environments, the toolkit provides resources and strategies for promoting awareness among staff, says Anum Maqsood, the Community Transportation Project Manager for Middlesex County. "From incorporating details into hiring events and employee orientation packages to prominently displaying route maps and schedules, the toolkit offers a comprehensive roadmap for fostering a transit-friendly workplace culture."

The Employer Toolkit includes:

  • An informative brochure detailing bus routes and schedules, providing employees with essential information for planning their commutes.
  • Eye-catching posters and engaging social media content highlighting the environmental and cost-saving advantages of public transportation, designed to raise awareness and encourage uptake.
  • Branded promotional items to enhance visibility and promote Middlesex County Connect within workplaces.
  • Complimentary fare passes to incentivize initial usage, allowing employees to experience the convenience and benefits of public transit firsthand.

"Businesses are increasingly recognizing the pivotal role of transit options in optimizing employee commutes," says Cara Finn, the Director of Economic Development for Middlesex County. "By embracing public transportation, employers not only alleviate financial strain on their workforce but also champion environmental sustainability."

The advantages of promoting Middlesex County Connect at the workplace are multifaceted. Shared transportation not only reduces solo driving but also mitigates parking expenses and carbon emissions. Moreover, companies that prioritize transit options cultivate a culture of environmental stewardship and employee well-being, positioning themselves as industry leaders in corporate social responsibility.

Cindy Howard, General Manager of Finance and Community Services at Middlesex County, adds, "Middlesex County Connect is dedicated to providing an affordable, reliable, and sustainable transportation option for the community. We encourage businesses to seize this opportunity to enhance employee commutes and environmental sustainability. Partner with us to collectively work towards creating a more connected and commuter-friendly community."

For businesses interested in offering free or subsidized transportation to employees, Middlesex County Connect offers bulk ticket purchases at corporate discounted rates. For inquiries and to request an employer toolkit, please contact Anum Maqsood at (519) 520-5886.

For more information, please visit 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. Provincial funding for Middlesex County Connect will be available until March 31, 2025. Voyago is the service provider operating two routes Monday to Friday. There is no service on weekends, statutory holidays, or civic holidays.

On May 29th, 2023, Middlesex County Connect replaced its existing routes with two new fixed routes:

Route 1: Lucan, Ilderton, Arva, London, and back.

Route 2: Woodstock, Ingersoll, Putnam, Dorchester, London, and back.

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MEDIA CONTACT:

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