Ontario Northland is closing two bus stations and laying off eight employees in efforts to contain costs and increase efficiency.
“Both Matheson and Englehart had low sales,” said Rebecca McGlynn, director of marketing and communications for the company.
There are no changes anticipated to North Bay, Moosenee and Cochrane.
“Those are our central hubs,” explained McGlynn.
The closing of the two stations, and cutbacks in hours of service in other towns is expected to save in excess of $600,000 per year.
“That’s in labour costs and capital and ongoing operational costs,” McGlynn said.
A news release states that “Our motor coach services are vital to Northern Ontario and we need to streamline our services in order to be sustainable.
“As part of transformation, Ontario Northland will be closing the Englehart and Matheson stations this May. Ticketing, parcel services and passenger pick up and drop off will be performed by a combination of agency support and online solutions (e-ticketing). Tickets can be purchased online at www.ontarionorthland.ca or by calling 1-800-461-8558.”
Also as part of transformation, operating hours at the New Liskeard, Kirkland Lake and Sudbury stations will be reduced:
- New Liskeard: 10 am to 7 pm, Monday to Friday
- Kirkland Lake: 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday
- Sudbury: 9 am to 6 pm, Monday to Friday
These changes will take effect May 22.
Ontario Northland has said the information about the changes will be available on its website, but it will also be holding community information sessions to update affected communities.
