This week was the launch of the 2A South Regional Transit service, which connects communities together in Innisfail, Penhold, Springbrook and Red Deer.

It serves as a huge benefit for people wanting to be more connected with their friends, family or loved ones. Or maybe to simply visit somewhere other than their own community.

The bus will make several stops in each community daily, allowing for people to get where they want to go when they want to go.

The service is a great way for people to see what their fellow communities have to offer.

With four stops in Innisfail, six in Penhold and 10 in Springbrook, the bus then makes a stop at Bower Place where passengers can transfer onto Red Deer Transit to access all parts of the City.

A nice added benefit is that there will soon be a Transit App for riders to plan ahead, being able to track their schedules.

One doesn’t think too often about the importance of transportation until they are without it, but it can be crucial to one’s day, especially those who need to get to and from work.

Take the whole Greyhound Bus fiasco. With the cancellation of service, riders are left to fend for themselves, looking for other means of transportation or just cancelling their plans, figuring out what they are going to do.

It’s important to realize that it’s such a blessing to have transportation and that we should never take it for granted because it really does help us get to where we need to go, along with helping us continue to build relationships with those around us.

Rides are currently free now through to Feb. 8th. After this introductory period, the fare is $5 per ride and children five and under can ride for free.