Flexiride woodend bus service expanded

The Andrews Labor Government is expanding Woodend’s FlexiRide bus service as part of a 12-month trial that will improve operating hours, connections with trains, booking options, accessibility, stop locations and the service area.

The bus service operates on an as-booked basis and travels to select FlexiRide bus hub stops in and around Woodend with no fixed route.

Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said the initiative is focused on creating fairer journeys for all Victorians and the expansion will provide Woodend passengers with more opportunity to catch the bus.

Under the trial that begins on Sunday, 31 October, buses will start earlier – operating between 8.15am and 4.15pm on weekdays – to allow for more students and commuters to use the service in the morning and improve connections for passengers to Woodend Station.

The service area will also be expanded with buses available in Woodend between Honeysuckle Lane and Tweedle Lane.

Passengers will be able to book, cancel and track their trips in real-time using the FlexiRide app.

Bookings can also still be made by calling 03 5422 1634.

Passengers with mobility needs will be able to pre-book a tailored door-to-door service making travel more accessible. Passengers can also use the app to let the driver know if wheelchair access is required.

Selected existing bus stops within the service area will be used as FlexiRide Bus Hub stops and several virtual stops will also be added. Four existing FlexiRide Woodend bus stops will be temporarily closed for the duration of the trial to allow for more direct journeys.

Victoria’s Bus Plan outlines how the government will deliver a modern, productive, environmentally sustainable bus network that increases the number of passengers.

The changes will be considered for permanent implementation following the 12-month trial.

For more information visit ptv.vic.gov.au/FlexiRideWoodend

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas
"The FlexiRide service expansion will make it easier for Woodend residents to get the bus where they need it, when they need it."

"Passengers with accessibility needs who may not be able to get to a bus stop will be able to prebook a tailored door-to-door service."

“We hope the extended flexible service will result in more people catching a bus in and around Woodend, and even encourage people to start using buses for the first time.