Happy Valley-Goose Bay launches its first-ever public transit service

Photo credit: The Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay

The vibrant and multicultural community of Happy Valley-Goose Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, has entered a new era of clean, renewable transportation with the launch of its very first public transit service in June 2025.

This milestone was made possible with investments from the Rural Transit Solutions Fund, alongside the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay. With this funding, the Town was able to purchase an 18-seat electric, accessible bus, install charging infrastructure, and launch a user-friendly on-demand transit app.

Before its launch, residents faced a major transportation challenge with limited and costly transportation options. Many relied on taxis, which created barriers for people trying to reach work, school, and essential services. Developed through extensive community feedback and surveys, the service reflects the needs of those who depend on access mobility.

The community now has a modern, affordable, and sustainable electric bus service which runs from Monday to Saturday, with convenient advance booking available through an online on-demand system.

Since its launch, feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Residents appreciate the safe, accessible, and reliable service, using it to attend appointments, get to school, or connect with friends and family. Many commuters also use the service to travel to and from work at a reduced cost, making daily travel more affordable and sustainable. Younger riders are especially enthusiastic—many say they plan to keep using the service, while hoping to see more buses and expanded routes in the future.

The introduction of public transit in Happy Valley-Goose Bay marks an exciting step forward in building an inclusive, sustainable community that supports residents today while investing in future generations.

Quick facts

• The Happy Valley-Goose Bay bus route is able to loop through town in 90 minutes and operates four times on weekdays and twice on Saturdays.
• The federal government invested $672,000 in this project through the Rural Transit Solutions Fund (RTSF), the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador contributed $100,000, and the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay contributed $168,800.
• Launched in 2021, the RTSF supports initiatives that enhance access to public transit, helping residents of rural, remote, Indigenous and Northern communities conduct their day-to-day activities. By improving the availability and reliability of public transit options, the RTSF helps build stronger, more connected communities across the country.
• The RTSF supports a range of public transit models, including fixed-routes transit, flex-route transit, demand-response transit, community shuttles and mobility-as-a-service. In addition to supporting rolling stocks, the RTSF funds fixed infrastructure related to transit including transit hubs, pathways, bus stops and more.

For more information

• Happy Valley-Goose Bay on the road to a new public transit system
• Public Transit - Town of Happy Valley Goose Bay
• Rural Transit Solutions Fund