Sask. traffic board hearings begin for passenger bus service

The Highway Traffic Board (HTB) began hearing from applicants looking to run passenger bus service in the province. The HTB grants the operating authority to transportation companies.

Melville-based Di-Cal has applied to operate passenger service between Yorkton and Regina. It has been running parcel service there for seven years.

“We are more than capable of transporting passengers safely,” owner Diane Smith told the HTB panel.

But she did express frustration with the process. Several members of the public or those representing certain groups appeared before the panel citing safety concerns and issues with the government closing the Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC).

“Nobody from the Yorkton or Melville area is here, but like I said, seven years, people know us, they know we’ve been there and we do a good job,” Smith told reporters afterwards. “Our guys have taken 11 courses in de-escalation, recognizing the signs that someone is becoming agitated. We also have done standard first aid and CPR training.”

The HTB has 21 days to post its decision.

On Thursday, the HTB will hear from Rider Express Transportation that wants to provide game-day service between Regina and Saskatoon.

As well hearings will be held in Saskatoon on June 14.

STC ran it’s last passenger service on May 31.