The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg Council has approved funding of up to $600,000 to support the purchase of three accessible transit vehicles and related equipment for a new Demand Responsive Transit (DRT) service to be operated by Lunenburg County Wheels Express.
The new service is intended to enhance existing public transportation options by providing flexible, on-demand trips within a designated service area. The initiative will complement, not replace, the transportation services currently offered by Lunenburg County Wheels.
Under the proposed partnership, the Municipality will provide capital and annual operating funding, while Lunenburg County Wheels Express will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the service, including dispatching, scheduling, customer service, staffing, vehicle maintenance, and fleet operations.
Council's contribution will support the purchase of three accessible transit vans and associated equipment needed to launch the service, including security systems, bike racks, winter tires, tablets, and other operational equipment. Two vehicles are expected to operate daily, with a third vehicle available to provide service continuity during maintenance or periods of higher demand.
“This initiative is about expanding transportation choices for residents,” said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “By investing in Lunenburg County Wheels, we can build on services already available and help more people access employment, healthcare, shopping, recreation, and community services.”
The demand responsive transit service is being designed to improve mobility for residents who may not have access to a private vehicle, including seniors, persons with disabilities, youth, and lower-income residents. Vehicles will be fully accessible, and trips will be bookable online, through an app, or by telephone.
The initial phase of the service will focus on key destinations and travel corridors within a defined service area. While the service will not cover all of Lunenburg County at launch, this phased approach will allow the Municipality and its partners to evaluate demand, monitor usage patterns, and identify opportunities for future expansion.
The initiative supports Council’s priorities related to quality of life, affordability, accessibility, social inclusion, climate action, and regional economic development. Improved transportation connections can help residents access jobs, healthcare, education, and essential services while reducing transportation barriers in rural communities.
Additional details, including service areas, operating hours, booking information, and launch timelines, will be shared as implementation progresses.
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Posted October 1, 2026