On 8 December 2014, GO GEORGE buses will start operating on four routes in the first trial phase of George’s new scheduled public transport system.
After several years in the making, the vision of a reliable, safe and affordable public transport system for George – and eventually an inter-town service – is about to be realised. GO GEORGE is the result of a historic partnership that includes the George Municipality, the Western Cape Government and public transport operators from the George area, with financial support from national government.
Having a quality service with extended hours, properly managed and monitored, is expected to benefit both residents and visitors, boost the local economy, make George more attractive for businesses and investors and improve the lives of people.
For the many elderly people living in George, children and those with special needs, the features of the GO GEORGE system will provide a new level of independence. Level boarding from bus stops, tactile paving to direct the partially sighted, and spaces for wheelchairs are some of the design elements that make the system among the most universally accessible in the country.
There will be a range of buses used on the routes, suited to the type of area and levels of passenger demand. On the larger buses, there will be space for luggage and other items such as prams, although animals are not welcome unless they are guide dogs. Initially, large buses will be used on the first routes, which may be replaced on some routes with smaller buses once they arrive from the manufacturers in the first half of 2015
‘This flagship public transport network will change the face and image of our city considerably. It is indeed one of the game changers and catalysts that will not only enhance mobility, but will ignite our City’s economic growth. I want to congratulate and thank all the different role-players who have worked relentlessly and with sustained effort in ensuring that this transport network becomes a reality.’ – Executive Mayor Charles Standers
