Black Diamond residents have a new way of getting around.
The new transit service, the Sheep River Shuttle, launched officially with a ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 18.
“We’ve had ridership since January, and they’ve all been self-scheduled,” said Black Diamond CAO Sharlene Brown. “Not a lot considering we haven't done a full launch of the program, but a substantial number.
“Our Tuesday and Thursday runs have been successful, and we've got all of the operational tweaks worked out.”
The pilot project for the program wrapped up in January and the service is now fully operational.
The subsidized shuttle will operate on Tuesday and Thursday between 9 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., available to Black Diamond residents only. It offers transportation within Black Diamond, as well as to Turner Valley and Okotoks.
Mayor Ruth Goodwin was pleased to see another option for her town’s residents.
“I think it’s wonderful that we have started our Sheep River Shuttle,” Goodwin said at the launch ceremony.
“There has been a significant amount of input and consultation throughout the last seven years that have led to this project coming to fruition.”
Goodwin sees the shuttle as not just an option for residents, but a way of increasing the mobility for those who may not have the means to own a private vehicle.
“Especially during COVID when we've got a lot of people that can't transport themselves and can't afford the car and insurance and fuel and maintenance," she said.
The service is operated by the Boys and Girls Club of the Foothills, a regional non-profit organization.
Club CEO Shirley Puttock is enthusiastic to see the shuttle helping members of the community who may be without self-reliant mobility.
“This was just another project that we're happy to be part of to help the citizens that need transportation,” Puttock said.
“Transportation in rural areas is always challenging for our seniors and people with physical mobility issues that don't have their own transportation,” she continued. “The Boys and Girls Club is about helping everyone in the community.
“We have always enjoyed an excellent working relationship with the Town of Black Diamond.”
In a November meeting, it was indicated the program is projected to cost around $40,000 to operate for the first year, hopefully making $10,000 back in user fees.
Goodwin said following that November meeting that like any service or facility offered by the Town, the transit service isn’t meant to be a for-profit enterprise.
The service schedule may expand as use patterns are determined, read a statement from the Town.
A fare to Turner Valley or within black Diamond will cost $3 one-way, while fare to Okotoks from Black Diamond is $7 each way.
Door-to-door service will be provided for both service options first-come first-served basis for up to nine passengers.
The shuttle is equipped with a rear wheelchair lift with room for two wheelchairs.
Payment is accepted by debit card only, no cash or credit cards are accepted.
With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, passengers are required to wear masks while riding, boarding, and leaving the shuttle. Hand sanitizer is available on board.
Trips on the shuttle can be booked by calling 403-861-2081.
