News release

Expanded Transit Service on Eastern Shore

Municipal Affairs (April 2014 - May 2019)

Residents of the Eastern Shore now have expanded transit service thanks to $59,042 in provincial funding for a pilot project.

The MusGo Rider Valley-Sheet Harbour Cooperative Ltd. launched door-to-door transit service this month, using a van to provide rides for people from East Ship Harbour to Ecum Secum and the Musquodoboit Valley.

"Public transit is an important service in many of our small towns and rural communities across the province," said Natural Resources Minister Lloyd Hines on behalf of Municipal Affairs Minister Zach Churchill. "Through our funding programs we help make these transit services accessible and able to meet the needs of citizens."

The new service works in partnership with its sister organization, MusGo Rider Cooperative Ltd. which has been operating from Preston and Lawrencetown to Ship Harbour since 2012.

Both organizations provide pre-booked, wheelchair-accessible service to help people get to medical appointments, grocery stores, family and community events, and more.

"Provincial funding helped us develop a comprehensive business plan and launch the service on a firm financial footing, taking us through the first several months of growth," said David Kerr, board chair for MusGo Rider Valley-Sheet Harbour Cooperative Ltd. "The funding is important to ensure future success of our transit service."

The funding is from the Nova Scotia Transit Research Incentive Program. It funds projects that generate new and improved public transit services in rural areas and underserviced urban areas. This year, the program is investing $167,292 in 12 projects around the province.