A total of 20,264 people used the Galway City Council’s park and ride service over the Christmas period, an increase of 2,042 people from last year.
Figures from City Hall show that the Christmas park and ride service increased from 18,222 passengers in 2008 to 20,264 in 2009, an 11 per cent increase which served to offset an equivalent drop in the number of cars presenting at Galway Racecourse.
In response to customer feedback the service began at the earlier time of 7am rather than 7.30am and survey results indicate that this change in time induced a 20 per cent increase in the numbers availing of the service.
The service also incorporated a free onward bus journey to Galway Shopping Centre, which was well received by customers who commented that it provided a further bonus to availing of the park and ride service.
“In the current economic climate an 11 per cent increase in the total number of passengers carried is very welcome,” said Joe Tansey, head of the Galway Transportation Unit, “as is the increase in car-sharing from an average of two to 2.4 persons per car. We were also delighted to see a significant increase in the number of workers availing of the service this year.”
