The intercity transportation options for Red Deer residents continue to increase.
Greyhound announced on Tuesday that it is bringing its Greyhound Express service to Alberta — with Red Deer, Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray running as of Nov. 14.
Greyhound Express provides amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, expanded legroom and leather seats. Routes are either direct or have one stop only, and passengers have access to a private waiting area with guest services staff.
“All of the buses are new and passengers are guaranteed a seat,” added Jen Biddinger, a spokesperson with the U.S.-based company.
Biddinger said the arrival of Greyhound Express won’t impact Greyhound’s existing schedule in Red Deer.
“We’ll still keep the routes that we already have there. This is an added service.”
Greyhound Express was launched in the United States last December, and is now available in 30 markets. Alberta is the first Canadian province to be served by it.
“If this is a success, we always look for opportunities to bring the service to other areas,” said Biddinger.
Greyhound Express tickets are available at www.greyhound.ca/express, with online bookings available at a discounted price. Tickets can be printed directly by passengers.
Last month, Red Arrow Motorcoach introduced a discount “ebus” service between Calgary, Red Deer and Edmonton. Fares are cheaper than Red Arrow’s traditional service, but amenities like single seating, onboard movies and satellite radio aren’t available.
However, ebus passengers do have access to wireless Internet and power outlets.
The Alberta government deregulated long-haul bus service, effective Oct. 1. Previously, competition on some busy routes was restricted in exchange for carriers guaranteeing service on less-profitable runs.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com