A new project, the Original Roseau City Bus Stop Map, was initiated in June 2024 to improve the accessibility of Dominica’s bus system for locals and tourists. Rashida Serrant-Davis, founder of Fifty-One Books, conceptualized the map, drawing inspiration from the Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) maps in New York City. Collaborating with Project Assistant Kytel Daniel and Graphic Designer Ayomidimeji, the team crafted a comprehensive map featured in the book “Greater Than a Tourist Dominica: 50 Travel Tips from a Local.”
The map aims to serve frequent bus travelers by providing up-to-date information on bus stop locations, destinations, notable landmarks, ATM locations, and free Wi-Fi hotspots in Roseau City. It also invites micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises to participate and gain visibility. Over 15 Dominican business owners have already joined the initiative.
Mrs. Davis expressed delight in collaborating with local business owners to understand their aspirations and narratives, inviting diverse sectors to gain visibility through this initiative. The project highlights Dominica’s public transportation system, primarily operated by private minibus drivers, emphasizing their economic significance. Davis encourages drivers to leverage the opportunity to showcase Dominica’s beauty to tourists and the diaspora. “The buses are a vital part of the nation’s economy. It’s time for the bus drivers to take in front—some tourists and diaspora like seeing Dominica by bus,” Davis stated.
During a conversation on Kairi FM’s Kairi Connections radio show, host Vanessa Bruno confirmed the bus network’s appeal to island visitors, particularly backpackers. “They don’t want to take a taxi, they just want to explore. That is a fun way of getting to know a place,” said Bruno.
The project plans for annual updates, new partnerships, and the distribution of 5,000 printed maps locally. A digital version will also be available on dominicabybus.com, which Davis developed herself, demonstrating her commitment to empowering small business owners through forthcoming webinars.
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