Regional Public Transport
The Northwest Regional Service Commission (NWRSC), in partnership with local governments and the rural district, is developing a regional transportation plan integrated at the provincial level.
This plan aims to create an affordable, accessible, and efficient transportation system, including for people with reduced mobility. It addresses the specific needs of rural areas, particularly by facilitating travel for workers, students, and newcomers. This service will contribute to socio-economic development by improving access to employment, healthcare, education, and recreational activities, while playing a key role in the retention of youth and newcomers. Deployment will occur in multiple phases, starting with the regions of Edmundston, Haut-Madawaska, and the Madawaska Maliseet First Nation, before expanding service to other areas such as Grand-Sault and Saint-Quentin. The project is based on studies conducted by Vecteur5 and specialized committees.
The Northwest Mobility Program, supported by the SIES with an annual budget of $50,000,** aims to improve transportation accessibility in the Northwest region to promote social and economic inclusion. Offering an affordable door-to-door transportation service, this program relies on a network of volunteer drivers, coordinated by Transport Urbain Rural, which manages routes and accounting.
This service is intended for seniors, low-income families, newcomers, and those without access to transportation, enabling them to reach medical appointments and other essential needs. Nominal fees apply, with reduced rates for low-income individuals. Volunteer drivers, recruited by the NWRSC and local partners, receive training, undergo background checks, and are reimbursed $0.50/km for using their own vehicles.