Georgia Dubois
Director
Smoky River FCSS
Second FCSS bus is coming
The Smoky River Community Transportation began almost ten years ago and is unique to the Smoky River region.
General operating funds are derived through rider fees as well as the ongoing contributions from the municipalities of Donnelly, Falher, Girouxville and McLennan, plus the M.D. of Smoky River No. 130. It is the only program of its kind in Alberta..
The program is administered by Smoky River FCSS who do the scheduling, as well as hiring qualified drivers. We also have a maintenance person who ensures all maintenance and inspections are done. FCSS also schedules meetings with the Smoky River Transportation Committee, which is comprised of members from all five municipalities as well as personnel from SRFCSS and members at large. The committee meets three to four times a year to discuss any issues or concerns that may arise and to make decisions regarding upgrading and improvements to the program.
All residents in the M.D. of Smoky River No. 130 are eligible to ride on any of the trips to Grande Prairie and Peace River, which allow residents to attend doctor and specialist appointments. Trips also provide a chance to socialize and visit family, with special trips planned throughout the year that give people a chance to discover some of the wonders of the Peace Country, as well as enjoying entertainment in the region. Laughter is a key part of these trips and has helped cement a firm following of people in the area. The program also provides transportation for participants in the Summer Youth Program, as well as providing transportation for other youth who participate in FCSS programming. The community van can also be rented by individuals or organizations who reside within region, who have need of a wheelchair accessible vehicle.
Recently, the much awaited second vehicle – a smaller five-passenger van – was purchased and we are looking forward to getting this van up and running, meaning more trips and greater opportunities for people in the region to get out and see what’s happening and who’s going where.
Call our office at (780) 837-2220 if you would like a transportation schedule mailed to you, or if you would like to put your name on the list to take a trip!