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Approximately 30,000 travelers annually rely on the two city buses operating within Speng

Community Transport Bus Association Has Been Operating in Spenge for a Quarter-Century, Distinctively Offering Service Across Ostwestfalen with Up to Two Buses.

Annually, around 30,000 commuters rely on the two city buses operating in Speng.
Annually, around 30,000 commuters rely on the two city buses operating in Speng.

Approximately 30,000 travelers annually rely on the two city buses operating within Speng

In the picturesque Ostwestphalian town of Spenge, a unique Bürgerbus service continues to flourish, connecting four districts with the city centre and providing a valuable supplement to regular public transport.

The association, which was founded by Hans-Egon Kirchhoff in 2000, has grown steadily over the years, making it the only Bürgerbus Association in Ostwestfalen-Lippe to have two vehicles. The latest addition to their fleet, a new bus purchased for 120,000 euros, is testament to their success.

Hans-Egon, who has been driving for the association since its inception, plans to retire from driving after one more year. His wife, Ilse, led the association for 23 years before being honoured at the anniversary festival with a large bouquet of flowers. The couple's commitment to the service has been recognised with the Federal Cross of Merit.

The new chairman of the Spenger Bürgerbus Association is Hans-Jürgen Krain, a retired Bielefeld public transport worker. Krain expresses his enthusiasm for the Bürgerbus service, saying, "I've always believed in the importance of community transport, and I'm thrilled to be part of an organisation that makes such a difference in people's lives."

The association's success is not confined to its growing fleet. It also boasts a dedicated team of volunteers, including Helga Krazewski, a former teacher, who volunteers to drive one of the buses, taking two to three shifts a month. The association has no problem finding volunteers, a testament to the positive impact it has on the community.

Last year, the Spenger Bürgerbuses transported over 30,000 passengers, and they are approaching the 300,000th passenger in their history. The service is a vital lifeline for many residents, particularly the elderly and those without access to regular public transport.

As the association looks to the future, it continues to operate as described, connecting four districts with the city centre, Monday to Friday from morning to evening and Saturday from morning to midday. The Spenger Bürgerbus Association remains a shining example of community spirit and commitment.

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