A previous version of the story noted that the buses would be electric. Incorrect information was provided to CambridgeToday. The electric bus in the photo was just brought in for the event announcement.
Organizers for the Cambridge Canada Day celebrations at Riverside Park are focusing on sustainability this year.
In a "red, white and green" campaign, the Cambridge Canada Day Committee has decided to go eco-friendly and supply free transit to attendees of the event.
Christa Bailey, sponsorship coordinator for the committee notes that trying to leave Riverside Park after the event can be tiresome with lines of cars waiting to exit the one-way road through the park and clogging Preston streets.
"If anyone has tried to drive through Preston during rush hour you know what I'm talking about," said Bailey. "You might be waiting 90 minutes to leave the park and I think of all those cars idling and the mother with a two-year-old in the back seat."
This has led to the idea of getting busses to shuttle parkgoers from Cambridge Centre Mall to the Canada Day celebrations.
In partnership with Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada (TMMC), GFL Environmental, Grand River Cycling, with the support of the City of Cambridge and Heritage Canada the event can focus on a green Canada Day event.
"Toyota Motor Manufacturing Canada sees the Canada Day greening initiative as a perfect match," said Scott MacKenzie, director of external affairs at TMMC.
"As a mobility company embracing a sustainable future, TMMC is proud to be a member of this vibrant community and is pleased to provide free transportation to the festivities."
Two buses including a fully accessible bus will be donated by TMMC for the event. The buses will be available from the upper parking lot of the Cambridge Centre Mall to Riverside Park with return trips starting at 1 p.m. on July 1.
"We will run a few trips starting at 1 and then really ramp it up after 6 p.m.," said Bailey.
Grand River Cycling will also provide a free, secure valet bicycle parking service that encourages families to ride their bikes to the event.
GFL Environmental has donated a large bin for event staff to keep the park clean and will have volunteers, known as the "Team Green", present on the parade route and throughout the park.
"When this size of crowd gathers to celebrate, we take on the extra responsibility to help control litter," said the committee in a press release. "The Green Team" will bring up the end of the parade and will be present throughout the day, encouraging the community to pitch in and keep the park clean."
The Cambridge Canada Day celebration is the largest in the region is planned with an expected 70,000 people showing out to attend. The entire event is funded and delivered by a committee of volunteers who work year-round.
"It is made possible by the generosity of the corporate community, donations, and support, ensuring the event remains free for all attendees," noted Bailey.
The organization is still in desperate need of volunteers for the event. Those who are looking to join can visit the committee's website to find out how to donate or volunteer.
