Iqaluit Transit Set for January Launch with New Bus Service

A new privately run bus service in Iqaluit is on track for a launch on January 19, 2024, according to Jacinto Marques, the owner of Nunavut Marketing. The company, which operates Iqaluit Transit, has faced various challenges since announcing the service last year, but Marques remains optimistic about its introduction.

In an interview, Marques stated, “We’re very serious about this service and we definitely want to help out the community. This is a long, long time coming, even with the obstacles.” The service aims to provide a vital transportation option for residents, many of whom currently rely on taxis, which charge $9.50 per ride.

As part of the preparations, Marques is working with the City of Iqaluit to finalize the specific route and stops for the bus service. The proposed route will connect the airport with Apex, but first, Marques needs to gain approval for the installation of signposts along the route. According to Geoff Byrne, the city’s spokesperson, the process for obtaining a development permit generally takes four to five weeks, although it does not require council approval unless a zoning variance is needed.

In March, the city council voted to grant Iqaluit Transit a permit to operate a vehicle-for-hire service. The company has recently acquired a second bus to complement its initial vehicle, a converted school bus that had been parked for much of the year following the destruction of Nunavut Marketing’s office in the Noble House fire in January. The newly acquired bus, which arrived last month, resembles city transit buses commonly found in southern regions and features buttons for passengers to request stops as well as a light-up panel to indicate whether the bus is heading toward the airport or Apex.

“It rides nicely,” Marques commented about the new vehicle, noting its enhanced power and durability necessary for the local roads. As the company moves forward, it has also listed a job opening for a bus driver, with Marques interviewing numerous applicants.

To encourage community use of the new service, Marques plans to offer free rides for the first two to three weeks after the launch. Following this introductory period, a fare of $5 per ride will be implemented, alongside a $189 monthly unlimited ride pass.

Marques stated, “Hopefully, those plans and those permits are finalized soon. Either way, we’re pretty dedicated to launching in January.” The introduction of Iqaluit Transit marks a significant step toward establishing a public transit system in Iqaluit, which has not had such a service since it was discontinued in 2005 due to low ridership. The renewed bus service aims to fill the gap for residents without personal vehicles, providing a more affordable and accessible transportation option within the city.