Saskatoon transit rolls out automatic stop announcements, other accessibility features

The City of Saskatoon has rolled out a number of transit upgrades aimed at making buses more accessible, and thus, increasing ridership.

Among the biggest upgrades is an automatic announcement system, which says out-loud which stop riders are approaching for the benefit of the visually impaired.

Saskatoon Transit said the system is already active on 95 per cent of buses on regular routes, (about 140 vehicles) at a cost of roughly $12,000 apiece. Further upgrades will announce adjoining connections as well.

New buses also come equipped with extra-wide entrances, extendable flip-up ramps for wheelchairs and walkers, a front kneeling system, and other accessibility features.

The initiative is being done in partnership with the Saskatchewan Human Rights Commission.

The official announcement comes one day after Regina Transit announced a series of similar features.