The government used the Transport Board’s 70th anniversary service to pledge sweeping reforms of public transport, with ministers to consider proposals on modernisation, sustainability and improved service by next week, acting Prime Minister and Minister of Transport and Works Santia Bradshaw said on Sunday.
She declared: “This reform is about building a stronger, more accountable institution and more efficient organisation that can better meet the needs of the Barbadian public.
“As minister, I want to reaffirm the government’s full commitment to the transformation. Reliable public transportation is a critical pillar of national development, whether it is education, whether it is in health care, whether it is in relation to our social services.”
The changes include transitioning to the Barbados Mass Transit Authority, which is expected to introduce modern governance structures, improve financial management, sharpen the focus on customer service, improve efficiency through technology, and support the enfranchisement of employees.
“These investments are not only just about replacing old vehicles, they are about building a modern, accessible and responsive system that can serve the needs of our people well into the future,” the transport minister said.
“On the current course, it is expected that the revised Cabinet paper will be before Cabinet by next week, and discussion will begin before the end of this month.”
She stressed: “This transition is going to be necessary if we are to deliver the kind of public transportation system that Barbadians deserve, one that is reliable, people-centred, and financially sustainable.”
As part of modernisation efforts, Bradshaw highlighted the expansion of the electric bus fleet. “This has been a bold step towards sustainable and climate-friendly transport and a commitment by the government to address longstanding issues for our commuters,” she said. “Today we have the largest electric bus fleet in this part of the Western Hemisphere.”
The state bus company’s EV fleet currently stands at 89, with another 35 buses expected by the end of the year.
Underscoring the government’s commitment to equity, Bradshaw said: “We are committed to ensuring that no Barbadian is disadvantaged simply because of where they live.”
“At the policy level, we are also exploring the possibility of a dedicated school bus service,” she said, adding that officials are actively reviewing and redesigning national bus routes to improve service in underserved and rural areas, reduce overcrowding, and cut delays during peak hours. Planned upgrades include the modernisation of bus terminals.
“We are exceedingly proud of the work that the members of the staff of the Transport Board do. I assure you that the work that is being done by our staff does not go unnoticed.”
Transport Board CEO Fabian Wharton also extended appreciation to staff. “You needed the support of the staff in order to get through the objectives and the day-to-day operations of the board,” he said. Wharton highlighted the contribution of the Barbados Workers’ Union.
He added, “I want to thank the public of Barbados for their patience. I have asked on many occasions at different forums, different locations across the country, for patience. We have been given that patience, we have started to deliver on some things, but we know we are not there yet. I assure you that we are laser-focused on delivering those things that we have to do, which is to move people safely, effectively and quickly.”
(STT)
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