Gothenburg’s extremely popular flex lines were introduced 13 years ago, and the system now operates 22 lines in all parts of the city, even on the southern islands of Styrso and Donso. The flex lines operate with low-floor mini buses, as the route network includes hilly areas that are home to many elderly and/or disabled persons. Stops have been moved closer to homes for the elderly, hospitals, service centres and social buildings. The timetable allows passengers to get seated before the driver starts, and there is a nice and friendly atmosphere.

The maximum distance between “meeting points” (i.e., stops) for most passengers is 150 metres. The flex lines increase opportunities for older people to maintain independence and a social life. Many older persons use the flex lines, even those who are not eligible for special transport service, which shows that there is a need for an adapted service that makes mobility easier for persons with disabilities or impairments.

During winter, when ferries in the southern archipelago run on a special timetable in icy conditions, the flex line on the islands Donso and Styrso make a few extra runs from the landing stage at Styrso Bratten to Styrso Tangen, as no ferry runs to Styrso Tangen at these times.

Author: Ragnar Domstad