Montego Bay Metro expands bus service to Green Pond, Green Island

The State-owned Montego Bay Metro Bus Company is reporting a "good turnout" from commuters as its expanded public transport services to Green Pond in St James and Green Island in Hanover started on Monday.

Despite some students sticking to their usual travel methods, the metro bus service commenced promptly at 6 a.m.

The service is set to benefit students attending Green Pond Primary School, Farm Primary and Junior High, Green Pond High in St James, and Green Island High School in Hanover. Two new buses have been added to the company's fleet, increasing the total to 20.

Acting General Manager Nashu Lelievre reported that “there was an influx of students and adults coming on the buses this morning, especially as it relates to the subsidised fare that they are traveling in air-conditioned buses equipped with Wi-Fi.”

“We have gotten a good turnout this morning. Equally [important] to know is that our rides are very convenient, on time, safe, reliable, and passengers are transported in AC buses,” Lelievre said.

He added: “There was a flock of students and adults coming on the buses this morning because the fares are extremely cheap. Typically, traveling to Green Pond High School from downtown Montego Bay costs around $140, but our fares are $50 for children, the disabled, and seniors, and $100 for adults. Because of the discount in fares, so we have gotten a good turnout this morning. Equally to know is that our rides are very convenient, on time, safe, reliable, and passengers are transported in air-conditioned buses,” Lelievre said.

The Gleaner observed that staff members had to work hard to convince some students to board the buses this morning.

The general manager said the company will continue engaging with parent-teachers associations, principals, and other stakeholders to boost uptake.

“We’ll be advertising in the media to ensure that stakeholders are aware of the services that we’re providing,” he added.

Heroy Clarke, Member of Parliament for St James Central, where Green Pond is located, praised the initiative by the bus company. “This is all in making sure that we support the transportation system as best as possible,” he said.

He noted that Transport Minister Daryl Vaz recently visited Montego Bay to explore expansion opportunities for the Metro Bus Company. "We saw the movement of kids in a timely, safe, and comfortable situation, so we are encouraging everyone to make sure that they take care of it, because the more we maintain the situation, the better it is going to be for us," Clarke said.

- Albert Ferguson

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