Metrolinx to ‘reconsider’ cancellation of two Bolton GO Transit bus routes

Written By JULIA LLOYD

Caledon Mayor Allan Thompson finally heard some good news regarding the cancellation of bus routes 38 and 38A at the final council meeting of the summer. 

On June 25, Caledon Council received a report from Dominic Pallotta, manager and project administrator at Go Transit, who said he spoke with Metrolinx and got them to revisit the cancellation and consider reduced service. 

“I believe things are a little bit more encouraging today than they were two days ago,” said Pallotta.

The report showed detrimental numbers pertaining to the importance of the bus routes to Caledon residents. 

“I conducted a survey a week ago and about 40 per cent of people who use the service are from Caledon,” said Pallotta. 

The survey revealed that 74 per cent of people from Caledon who use those bus routes, as of right now, have no alternative option if the routes are cancelled. 

With almost half of the ridership on the 38 and 38A being Caledon residents, the cancelation would leave those residents stranded — especially if over half don't have another way of getting to their destination.

The survey revealed that, in Caledon and Bolton, residents own an average of two vehicles. Some people were asked about their alternative commute options and some said a car. But in Pallotta's report only 16 per cent of people considered car-pooling. 

As well, he mentioned that if residents did choose to commute with the use of a car, it would affect the town of Caledon's car traffic and that could become a concern down the road. 

Many riders have been very loyal to the Metrolinx service. The report showed that 14.5 per cent of riders having been using go transit for over 10 years.

“Kind or unfortunate, a lot of them are a bit upset that some of that loyalty wasn't shared the other way,” said Pallotta. 

He told council he met with VP of planning at Metrolinx, which definitely pressured them into revisiting the issue. However, Metrolinx has not come back with any proposed solution — yet. 

Pallotta also wanted to “highlight,” for council staff that if they cut Bolton, they will most likely cut the Orangeville service. 

As of right now, Council still does not have confirmation whether the buses will run next week. Pallotta believes the town won't get an answer until the last minute. 

Mayor Thompson seemed more hopeful then he did the day before. Regional Coun., of Ward 5, Annette Groves showed concern that the final decision is being made this Saturday with no confirmation of an alternative solution. 

“June 29 — is around the corner,” she stressed. 

Mayor Thompson said he would keep councillors informed about any updates in the next few days, as well he said will keep pressuring officials to delay the final decision.