Tofino’s free summer shuttle service has gone electric.
The district has launched a new pilot project for its shuttle service which carts riders, surfboards and beach gear between the downtown core and Cox Bay Visitor Centre stopping at beaches and resort spots along the way.
The shuttle was first introduced in 2009 in an effort to reduce emissions, traffic congestion and parking challenges and this will be the first year an electric bus is used.
“We are encouraging visitors and residents to take advantage of this easy, stress-free way to get between major resorts, campgrounds, local beaches and the village core,” said Tofino Mayor Dan Law. “Due to COVID-19 we were unable to operate this service last year so it is even more exciting to be back with the pilot of an electric bus that will significantly reduce emissions on this route”
The district has budgeted $215,000 to operate the service this season, with the majority of the funding coming from Resort Municipality Initiative coffers and pay parking revenue.
This year’s shuttle began on June 28 and will run until mid-September. Schedule information is available at tourismtofino.com.
“Visitors come to Tofino for incredible experiences on the West Coast,” said Mid Island-Pacific Rim MLA and Minister of Municipal Affairs Josie Osborne. “The Tofino free shuttle helps provide that experience, and it’s so exciting to see Tofino making it even better by running an electric bus on the route. This is good for our community, visitors and the environment.”
The electric shuttle pilot came through a partnership between Vancouver Island based Wilson Transportation and BYD Canada.
“We at BYD Canada are thrilled to be part of the Zero Emissions shuttle bus for Tofino. Residents and tourists deserve to ride on a clean, quiet bus to and from their destination. We are proud to be part of Tofino and Ucluelet‘s exploration of public transit options to support their communities,” said BYD Canada Vice President Ted Dowling.
“The Wilson’s Group is committed to doing our part towards a sustainable future. We are honored to be a part of this pilot project and to be working alongside such great and innovative partners,” added Wilson Transportation President and CEO John Wilson.
andrew.bailey@westerlynews.ca
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