Cambrian Mall to benefit from bridge bus traffic

The bridge bus will extend its route to include Cambrian Mall, former Mayor Jim McIntyre told City Council last night.

Appearing on behalf of the Joint International Bridge Authority, McIntyre (shown) persuaded Council to pick up 20 percent of the cost of operating the bus, whose future has been in doubt over the past year. Background

The City's expected to share the cost of continuing the service with similar contributions from the City of Sault Michigan, Lake Superior State University, the Joint International Bridge Authority and the Michigan Department of Transport.

Each of the five partners is expected to chip in approximately US$8,000 to ensure continued service between the twin Saults.

The cost-sharing agreement is for one year.

The bridge bus currently stops at the Queen Street terminal and at Station Mall, but McIntyre announced last night that the route will be extended to Cambrian Mall.

McIntyre said that the International Bridge is facing major financial pressures and cannot continue to subsidize the bus.

About 70 percent of those using the service are Canadian.

During the school year, 50 percent of bridge bus passengers are students.

In another urban-transit development, Council agreed to allow limited use of the Para Bus by people without wheelchairs.

Under new criteria approved by councillors last night, the Para Bus may now be used by people who can't climb or descend steps used on the regular City buses, and anyone who can't walk 175 metres. Background