YRT/Viva Snow Angels take to York Region streets to share the warmth of transit with commuters

York Region is encouraging residents to consider the convenience of transit during the final weeks of winter.

York Region Transit (YRT)/Viva Snow Angels have taken to the streets for three weeks starting March 5, armed with hot chocolate and shovels to bail out frozen commuters.

For riders already recognizing the benefits of YRT/Viva, Snow Angels will be offering complimentary hot chocolate along YRT/Viva routes.

To help those choosing to drive, Snow Angels will be shoveling driveways and offering complimentary YRT/Viva tickets for taking transit next time.

"Our extensive transit network offers convenient, reliable transportation for our residents," said Regional Chairman Bill Fisch. "YRT and Viva provide an excellent alternative to driving a car - in the winter or any time of year."

Public transit options, such as YRT/Viva, have been shown to ease commuting stress. By leaving the driving to someone else, YRT/Viva riders can read, chat with a friend, listen to music or just relax. With the help of the Snow Angels, existing riders will realize they have made the right choice and new riders will be inspired to forgo the stressful winter driving commute.

"It's important to thank our existing riders and encourage more York Region residents to try transit," said Regional Councillor Joyce Frustaglio of Vaughan, chair of the transit committee of Regional council. "What better way to do this than through a kind and thoughtful gesture?"

In the spirit of Snow Angel acts of kindness, residents are invited to share other inspiring stories with YRT/Viva at transitinfo@ york.ca Submit your experience observing or being a part of simple acts of kindness, such as giving up a bus seat for someone in need, opening a door or otherwise lending a hand. Submitted acts of kindness will be posted on www.yrt.ca

More than 18.2 million riders used YRT/Viva services in 2007, with nearly 73,000 trips made on average each day between Monday and Friday. Nearly 400 vehicles will make up the YRT/Viva fleet in 2008, including five diesel-electric hybrid vehicles. Pending final budget approval, all 90 Viva vehicles will be powered with a biodiesel fuel blend in 2008.