Introducing GOVA Plus: An Improved Specialized Transit Option

The evolution of local public transit continues with City Council’s approval of improved travel options for persons with disabilities. Formerly known as Handi-Transit, GOVA Plus is a specialized transit option which now extends eligibility to more people, simplifies trip reservations and reduces wait times.

Today’s resolution of Council extends eligibility for specialized transit to persons with a disability as defined under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) and the Human Rights Code. 

Under AODA, disability is defined as any degree of physical disability, a condition of mental impairment or developmental disability, a learning disability or dysfunction using symbols or spoken language, a mental disorder, or an injury for which benefits were claimed or received through the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act.

The City of Greater Sudbury recently renewed its five-year contract with STC-Leuschen which provides specialized transit using smaller buses for door-to-door transportation. Service enhancements under the new contract include:

• Trip reservations with a live operator seven days a week, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., for easier and more flexible travel planning.
• Fifteen new low-floor buses to replace traditional hydraulic lift systems. Low-floor buses with automated wheelchair ramps have advantages over hydraulic lifts: reduced passenger loading and unloading times, greater passenger comfort and independence, and less downtime associated with equipment failure.

Ultimately, the goal of GOVA Plus is to expand horizons through an application process that identifies the unique abilities of each individual.

GOVA is Greater Sudbury Transit’s refreshed service which will be rolling out across the community on August 26, 2019. The transformation of Greater Sudbury Transit services under the Transit Action Plan: Better Routes. Better Schedules. Better Service is made possible by the Canada-Ontario Public Infrastructure Fund (PTIF).

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