All bus traffic in Skellefteå municipality should be free. The proposal is something the municipality will consider.
– This initiative is primarily for the benefit of the people of Skellefteå, says Jan Remmets, one of the proposal's proponents.
Remmets, a well-known figure in Skellefteå, has spent nearly two years advocating for free buses outside CK every Saturday.
– Many people approach me to discuss the idea, and I'm hearing increasingly positive feedback. People are recognizing the potential benefits, and most I've spoken with are enthusiastic.
Remmets, a former doctor, emphasizes the proposal's multifaceted advantages.
– This is about the environment, air quality, public health, and social equity. Clean air benefits everyone, and I've witnessed that first-hand in my medical practice.
He cites successful examples of fare-free public transportation in various locations.
– Municipalities in Sweden and European cities that have implemented this approach have seen reductions in carbon emissions, increased bus usage, and decreased car usage.
The proposal focuses on implementing free service within Skellefteå's municipal borders.
– We acknowledge that bus service isn't available everywhere, and we're not experts on all aspects of public transportation logistics, however, this proposal reflects a strong vision for the future.
He emphasizes the widespread benefits of the proposal.
– Even car-dependent individuals will ultimately gain from this. While essential car use will always exist, reducing overall traffic congestion will make commutes easier and faster for everyone. Hamburg, for example, saw a significant decrease in traffic jams after implementing free public transport, leading to 20-minute commute time reductions.
– Social and economic justice are also key considerations. Bus riders often include low-income earners, students, retirees, and newcomers to our community. Fare-free public transportation would represent a significant step toward greater social and economic equity.
Remmets argues that this proposal offers a readily achievable solution to climate change concerns.
– The ability to say 'Ride the bus for free here in Skellefteå' would make our municipality even more attractive, he concludes.
Norran investigated current ticket revenue for bus transportation within the municipality, encompassing both local Skellefteå Buss services and regionally contracted services.
– Ticket revenue from local traffic amounted to 34 million kronor last year, says CEO Marie Larsson. Regional traffic within the municipality, including school passes, generated an additional 24.5 million kronor.
