B.C. calls for bids for driver education program on Highway of Tears
The province is moving ahead with its plan to improve transportation on Highway 16 with a search for contractors to develop and deliver a program to train drivers from First Nation communities.
At least 18 women and girls have been murdered or have disappeared since 1969 along the notorious stretch between Prince Rupert and Prince George, known as the Highway of Tears; many were hitchhiking.
The B.C. Ministry of Transportation, in partnership with the Ministry of Aboriginal Relations and Reconciliation, posted a request for proposals on the B.C. Bids website this week, with a closing date of Aug. 12.
The RFP said the government is looking for a contractor "to develop and deliver a culturally relevant driver training program focused on First Nation communities in the Highway 16 corridor between Prince George and Prince Rupert."
Bid part of $5-million plan
The RFP states the province is looking for a program that will support testing and licensing for Class 5 and 7 licences, as well as Class 4 — a license to drive buses with a maximum seating capacity of 25 people, as well as taxis, limousines, and other specialized vehicles.
A previous version of the RFP closed July 15, but the province cancelled it to make some clarifications and improvements before posting a new one on July 27.
The RFP is part of a now $5-million transportation action plan that the province first announced in December 2015, promising regular B.C. Transit service and programs to train bus drivers from First Nation communities in the area.
In June, the B.C. government said agreements among 16 communities along the highway will allow B.C. Transit to operate a scheduled bus service, slated to start at the end of the year.
The government also created a webpage for First Nations communities, Aboriginal organizations, and other groups can apply for funding for community vehicles and operating grants.
It's been three years since the Missing Women's Inquiry highlighted the need for better public transit in northern communities.
With files from Maryse Zeidler
