Written By Olena Riznyk
LUCAN-BIDDULPH – Mayor Doug Cook of Lambton Shores and CAO Steve McAuley provided an in-depth update on the progress, challenges, and future of the Huron Shores Area Transit system, during the March 4 council meeting of Lucan-Biddulph. Established in 2020, the service has grown significantly despite the difficulties of launching during the pandemic. The initiative stemmed from community interest in rural transit, and a feasibility study – funded by the province – confirmed the project’s viability. The Municipality of Lambton Shores took on the responsibility of managing the system, with initial support from Community Transit (CT) funding.
Since its launch, the transit service has expanded to cover approximately 1,500 square kilometers, serving a population of around 37,000. It operates routes connecting Lambton Shores, South Huron, North Middlesex, Bluewater, and Kettle & Stony Point First Nation with major centers such as Sarnia, London, Goderich, and Strathroy. The system uses 20-passenger buses equipped for wheelchair access and bicycle transport. Ridership has grown substantially, quadrupling in recent years. Businesses, particularly in Grand Bend, have seen increased customer traffic due to the service. Specialized routes, including employment-focused transit and a summer beach bus, have contributed to its success. However, route adjustments are under review, including a possible discontinuation of Route 4 from Grand Bend to Strathroy due to low ridership.
Financially, the transit system has operated efficiently. Moving forward, it will rely on multiple revenue sources. Bus fares and advertising contribute about 20% of operating costs, a rate consistent with other rural transit models. The system also receives provincial gas tax funding, which is allocated based on population and ridership but requires municipal contributions to qualify. Additionally, the new Ontario Transit Investment Fund (OTIF), offering up to 50% funding over five years, aims to support new and gap-filling transit initiatives. To sustain operations and access provincial funding, municipal contributions will be essential.
The transition from full CT funding to a combination of revenue sources presents financial challenges. Because provincial gas tax funding is based on past municipal contributions, new transit systems receive lower initial allocations. Furthermore, securing a portion of the highly competitive OTIF grant remains uncertain, as many municipalities vie for the funding. Despite these challenges, council remains committed to finding sustainable financial solutions and optimizing routes to ensure long-term viability. Future updates will be provided as funding applications progress and strategic adjustments are implemented, ensuring the transit system continues to serve the community effectively while remaining financially stable.
