Yesterday in Council, Mayor Jenny Shattock and Councillors acknowledged the South Waikato Public Transport Steering Group for its work and dedication over the past few years, work that has put the Urban Connector into service for our community as well as helping a local health shuttle get off the ground.
"Public transport is a concern for many councils, but with the dedication of the Steering Group and funding from Council, we have been able to achieve together something that we can be mighty proud of," commented Mayor Jenny. "This is a true success story of community minded people joining together with Council to deliver a much needed service to our people. Council recognises and gives thanks to the Group for its dedication and volunteer hours given to this project."
The Urban Connector made its maiden voyage in June of 2015 and the service has gone from strength to strength with a consistent upward trend of passengers since its launch.
"The $200,000 that Council committed to this project was a game changer," said Norm Barker, project leader for the Public Transport Steering Group. "Our thanks go to Council for this funding and for its continued support and guidance."
Mayor Jenny presented certificates to the Public Transport Steering Group, made up of representatives from Tokoroa City Lions, Putāruru Rotary, South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services, Putāruru Lions, Red Cross, Tokoroa Council of Social Services, and South Waikato Grey Power. Thanks also mentioned Waikato Regional Council and Council staff for their involvement in the project.
"I would like to thank Council for supporting us in this project, it took a significant level of boldness but Council had the confidence in us to deliver this project to our people," said Akarere Henry, South Waikato Pacific Islands Community Services CE and Public Transport Steering Group Chair.
Council will continue to play an active role in public transport in our district, looking at integration across districts and working on enhancing systems already in place.
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