Town of Coaldale welcomes a new accessible bus

Sunny South News Photo Submitted. RIBBON CUTTING: Community members, local officials, and key supporters joined the Coaldale and District Handi-Ride Association (CHRA) as it unveiled its new, accessible handi-bus with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Feb. 17. The new handi-bus features adaptable seating, access ramp and doubles capacity from the previous vehicle.

• New handi-bus features adaptable seating, access ramp and doubles capacity

By Kristine Jean
Sunny South News

Community members, local officials, and key supporters joined the Coaldale and District Handi-Ride Association (CHRA) as it unveiled its new, accessible handi-bus with ribbon cutting ceremony on Feb. 17. 

With an upgraded design, the new bus features an access ramp instead of a lift, making boarding easier for individuals using walkers or wheelchairs. It also includes a winch system for safe and controlled entry, particularly in winter conditions. The seating is highly adaptable, accommodating up to sixteen passengers and one wheelchair, or twelve passengers with three wheelchairs—more than doubling the capacity of the previous vehicle.

The purchase of the new bus was made possible through a generous $182,400 contribution from the Government of Canada’s rural transit solutions rund, along with a $25,000 contribution from the Coaldale Community Wellness Association, a $10,000 contribution from the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, and a $5,000 community grant from the Town of Coaldale. 

“Today’s ribbon-cutting marks an exciting step forward in the CHRA’s mission to provide accessible transportation for those who need it most”, said CHRA president, Tim Janzen. “With more capacity, improved accessibility, and greater flexibility, the new bus will ensure that Coaldale residents continue to have a reliable and inclusive transit option for years to come.”

Town of Coaldale mayor, Jack Van Rijn, extended gratitude to the Government of Canada on behalf of the town, for their generous support in making the project possible and was grateful for the collaboration and generosity that made the new handi-bus a reality.  

“In particular, we are incredibly thankful to Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada for recognizing the importance of accessible transportation in rural communities and for helping to fund this vital service through the Government of Canada’ s rural transit solutions fund,” said Van Rijn. “I also want to express our deep appreciation to the Coaldale Community Wellness Association, the Kinsmen Club of Coaldale, and the Town of Coaldale for their financial contributions. Their commitment to the well-being of our residents is what makes Coaldale such a strong and caring community,” he added, noting the new bus will provide greater independence and mobility for those who need it most. 

“We are committed to better connecting all communities across the country – rural and urban,” said George Chahal, Member of Parliament for Calgary Skyview, on behalf of the Honourable Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities. “Expanding public transit options through vehicle purchases, such as the Coaldale and district handi-bus, will help all residents navigate their communities and access essential services with more ease.”

The CHRA continues to provide rides on weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some flexibility for medical appointments such as dialysis treatments. Riders are encouraged to book their trips at least two days in advance by calling 403-360-5917.