The Ski Bus rides again
By Rossland Telegraph
Wondering what’s happening with the Ski Bus service this year? The ski bus – also known as the ski shuttle – is partially funded by the Resort Municipality (RMI) funding that Rossland receives, and some of its benefits are recognized in Rossland’s RMI strategy document: “The service alleviates vehicle traffic, lowers the environmental footprint of winter visitors, improves parking and helps reduce impaired driving.” All good results.
Local entrepreneur Natasha Lockey talks about the bus service, and also a delivery service from participating businesses to people’s homes. First, the Ski Bus:
“The Ski Bus has been a vital part of the community for the past 7 years. We have transported from 12000 to 20000 people a season over the years, to and from the Red Mountain Ski Resort in Rossland. The service normally operates from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, departing from downtown Rossland to Red Resort on the hour, or every half hour during peak times. This year we are looking for your support to continue the Ski Bus service. We are moving to a more digital approach this year, with the schedule accessible online through a QR code.”
(What’s a QR code? We see them everywhere now — here’s an example:)
Lockey explains further:
“We will continue to use the 15 passenger bus, which includes the driver. Based on Transport Canada’s guidelines the capacity will be 13 passengers, with face coverings, and it is recommended that they have their gloves and helmets on also. Additionally, the bus will be sanitized with a Fogger on each run, time dependent.”
Ski Bus Pass Pricing for riders during the 2020/2021 season:
Season Bus Pass = $100
10 Punch Pass = $20
1 ride token = $3
Local businesses can support the Ski Bus with advertising that will appear on the Ski Bus website, Facebook page and at the Kootenay Gateway Store on its digital screen.
Options for businesses and individuals to support the Ski Bus service:
Bus Stop – your logo on all marketing material, plus your name on the online schedule – the bus will stop at your business: $1000.00
Corporate Sponsor – your logo on all marketing material: $250.00
Logo on Bus – two sizes: $250.00 or $500.00, depending on available space
Community Supporter – if you just love the bus; your name will appear on the website: $100.00
Now, about the delivery service: “Rossland Eats.” Kootenay Gateway has already begun doing deliveries from The Flying Steamshovel and from Rossland Fine Wine and Spirits, to Rossland, Red Resort, and Redstone — and is interested in knowing whether there is demand for deliveries from other businesses in town. The system of payment divides the cost of the service between the business and the customer; a business can register to join the service for a fee, and can pay an additional fee to be a higher-priority delivery. Each resident also pays a fee per delivery. Deliveries are made from Wednesday to Sunday, from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm.
For more information on either service, readers can contact: natasha@kootenaygateway.com
