Metrobus launching pilot project with routes to Paradise

Starting in June, the Metrobus service will be travelling a little farther west.

• Paradise Metrobus pilot project aims to help traffic congestion
• Paradise to partner with Metrobus for 2016 pilot project

Paradise Mayor Dan Bobbett and St. John's Mayor Dennis O'Keefe signed a memorandum of understanding Wednesday to establish a one-year public transit pilot project in Paradise running June 2016 to June 2017.

"We are pleased to be in a position to offer this Metrobus pilot project to the residents of Paradise," Bobbett said in a statement.

"Transportation, including access to public transit, is a top priority for our residents and we look forward to working with Metrobus to launch and evaluate this pilot project."

The final details of the new routes won't be finalized for a few more weeks, although it is expected that there will be routes throughout select areas of Paradise and a commuter route from Paradise to the Avalon Mall allowing for further connections.

The Town of Paradise will use the project to evaluate demand for a bus service in the community. It is investing $240,000 over the next year, and will explore further investment if there is sufficient demand.

St. John's Mayor Dennis O'Keefe said the Metrobus project is beneficial for people throughout the area of both communities.

"Adding the Town of Paradise to the Metrobus service area is a big step toward a regional public transit system, and it offers area residents more options for moving around the region," he said.