The STO: A Partner in Community Mobility Since 40 Years!
A few words from the chairman
Since its very beginning, the STO has contributed to the quality of life of citizens in the region by offering a sustainable, greener alternative to driving alone in a car. Over the years, the region has given itself the freedom to travel within the community by promoting mobility for everyone.
Over the last 40 years, the STO has helped shape the city of Gatineau by taking an active part in its economic and social development, and land use planning. The STO has been part of the daily lives of residents for 40 years. This is certainly something worth mentioning! After all, we are celebrating 40 years of shared history!
Some history
The Outaouais Regional Community Transit Commission (CTCRO) was created in 1971 with the issuing of its letters patent. Prior to this, public transit was provided by the public sector.
- In 1972, the CTCRO acquired all the shares of the three public transit companies operating in the area, which were Hull City Transport, Transport Hull métropolitain and Transport d'écoliers du nord de l'Outaouais, for $2.25 million. It took possession of the administrative premises at 54 Front in Hull.
- The logo, as it appears today, was adopted in 1972.
- In 1973, the CTCRO purchased 13½ acres of land in the industrial park from the Société d'aménagement de l'Outaouais for $136,147!
- The CTCRO inaugurated its new premises at 111 Jean-Proulx in 1977 and set up the Information service. It also awarded the contract to provide transportation for persons with disabilities to Trans-Spec. The CTCRO stopped providing school transportation in the same year.
- In 1991, the CTCRO became the Société de transport de l'Outaouais, or the STO.
Progress so far
1971 | 2011 | |
|---|---|---|
Trips | 2.2 million | 19.2 million |
Bus fleet | 50 | 302 |
Employees | 125 including 75 drivers | 730 including 438 drivers |
Basic fare | $0.30 | $2.95 |
Distance travelled | 724,185 km | 13.4 million km |
Population served | 137,000 (esimated) | 270,654 |
40 years of history in photos
Open house a great success
On May 15, 2011, more than 900 people came to learn about the STO’s different activities.
The public was invited to visit the control and dispatch centre, mechanical shops, bus garage and much more. A display of archive photos, activities for children, draws and a BBQ organized by the social club delighted young and old.
In addition, the Shave-A-Thon organized as one of the day’s events helped to raise $17,300 for the Canadian Cancer Society. To show their solidarity with a colleague battling this disease, about 40 drivers and many other employees proved what they were made of and had their heads shaved... Congratulations!
Special publication and a few words from the general manager
Over the years, the STO has frequently distinguished itself. Many innovative projects have made the STO a leading figure in its field in Quebec and even North America! Things such as the first reserved lane, the first incentive parking facility, the smart card, and now the Rapibus.
If the past is a guide for the future, I predict that the STO will write some fascinating new chapters for its history, which is summarized in this souvenir publication.
