The High Park trackless train (above) is retiring in October and a new electric shuttle bus service may soon take its place.
A new shuttle bus service is being proposed to help move throngs of nature-loving visitors through High Park, now that vehicles are banned.
The shuttle bus would replace the park’s existing ‘trackless train’, which take fun lovers on a scenic 30-minute drive through nature.
The new buses have been recommended by the City’s Park and Recreation staff and will utilize electric buses if approved. The service could begin by December if approved by City council
The vehicles will take visitors for a fee to destinations in High Park in large TTC type buses than can hold up to 70 people each.
Large electric buses similar to these will be shuttling nature lovers to destinations in High Park.
The buses “allows visitors to access key destinations within High Park without the use of personal vehicles,” according to the report. The vehicles will ‘also provide access to locations in the park that are not accessible to vehicles.”
“High Park is one of Toronto’s most treasured parks,” according to City officials. “The park is a unique greenspace that spans over 160 hectares, much of which is recognized for its environmental significance.”
It accommodates a wide range of activities, amenities, and ecological, recreational, and cultural functions, according to the report. The park is the largest in Toronto.
This woman is delighted by a planned new High Park shuttle service.
Many elderly or challenged park lovers and businesses have repeatedly complained about a traffic ban imposed at High Park and claim the park is mostly used by cyclists and nature lovers. The businesses have complained about a drop in sales due to a lack of cars.
The City will earn 15 per cent of gross revenue of the amount of passengers on the buses and signs will also be installed and shuttle stops displayed in the park.
The buses in peak season would operate on weekdays from 10 a.m to 6 p.m., with service available once every 30 minutes. On weekends, it is proposed to run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and would be available every 15 minutes.
The service would cost under $9 for adults and $6.19 for seniors and $6 for children. It would operate more frequently during the cherry blossom season.
The service could begin by December should the proposal be approved by city council