The Comox Valley Regional District will greet morning commuters with hot beverages and festive treats on Friday, Dec. 8 in celebration of Transit Rider Appreciation Day.
“Regular bus riders are the backbone of our transit system,” said Michael Zbarsky, CVRD’s manager of transit and sustainability. “They are leading the way in our community by proving transit can be a viable option to get to work, school, shopping or other activities. And we want to show riders we value their commitment to our transit system.”
CVRD staff will greet transit riders at the downtown Courtenay transit exchange from 7:15 to 9:30 a.m. on Dec. 8. Transit riders unable to make the early morning commute can show a valid transit pass or proof of ridership and receive their beverage or treat at Mudsharks Coffee Bar (244 D 4th St.), Mary’s Café (101-1811 Comox Ave.) or Cumberland Village Bakery, (2747 Dunsmuir Ave.), while quantities last.
Riders are also advised to watch for a smiling Transit Elf, who will be riding the bus between 9:50 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. spreading holiday cheer to transit riders.
Rider Appreciation Day comes on the heels of information gathering sessions held by BC Transit and the CVRD to gain feedback on expanding and improving the Comox Valley Transit System. Members of the public can provide feedback through an online survey at www.bctransit.com/comox-valley/survey-outline, which will remain open until Dec. 15.
“We want transit to be more accessible to our community and are grateful for all the public feedback we receive”, adds Zbarsky. “There are so many benefits to incorporating transit into your weekly schedule, such as saving money, reducing greenhouse gas emissions or reading a good book. Plus, you don’t have to worry about scraping the ice off the car or driving in the wet winter conditions.”
For more information about Transit Rider Appreciation Day visit: www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/transitnews