STC HAS SECOND STRAIGHT YEAR OF GROWTH IN PASSENGER NUMBERS

The Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC) had its second straight year of growth in ridership, according to the company’s 2006 Annual Report, which was released today.  The continued growth is a positive sign and a significant improvement following several years of decline in passenger numbers.

“We are very encouraged to see more people using the bus system in this province,” Minister responsible for STC Eldon Lautermilch said.  “The increase of 4.5 per cent in ridership in 2006 builds on the 3.6 per cent increase seen in 2005.  This is not only good for STC’s bottom line; it is also good for the province’s environment, as bus transportation is the most environmentally-friendly form of inter-city transportation.”

Other highlights for the year, outlined in the report, include starting construction of a new $25.5 million passenger and freight depot and head office in Regina; a second successful year for the Youth Summer Excursion Pass; and the start of a 12-month test using a two per cent bio-diesel fuel mixture in about 50 per cent of STC’s coaches.

In 2006, STC travelled some 3.2 million miles, servicing 278 Saskatchewan communities and carrying more than 279,372 passengers, an increase of 11,987 over 2005.  The company saw increases to its passenger and express revenues during the year.  The company had been approved for a $5 million operational subsidy for 2006 but required only $4 million, with the other $1 million returned to CIC.

“STC has a mandate to provide the widest possible service to the people of Saskatchewan,” Lautermilch said.  “The company continues to run a number of routes that are important to communities but where the passenger count does not allow for cost recovery.  As a result, a subsidy is still required for its operations.  The STC remains committed to providing the best possible service while being a good steward of the public purse when it comes to that subsidy.”

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For more information, contact:

John Millar
STC
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6807
Email: jmillar@stc.com