Opaskwayak Cree Nation has marked a significant achievement with the acquisition of their custom-branded MCI bus, strengthening transportation access for all community members.
This milestone reflects the Nation's vision for inclusive community development, with Thom Brokerage & Consulting partnering to support their transportation infrastructure goals.
Enhancing Accessibility and Connection
The arrival of the MCI bus marks a milestone in Opaskwayak Cree Nation's commitment to inclusivity and enhanced mobility. As Chief Maureen Brown highlighted, a key feature is the improved wheelchair accessibility.
"What I was very impressed with was the accessibility for wheelchair access We do have to make that available to our members who are in wheelchairs and now they'll be able to join trips."
Chief Maureen Brown
Opaskwayak Cree Nation
"What I was very impressed with was the accessibility for wheelchair access," shared Chief Brown during the bus's welcome ceremony. "We do have to make that available to our members who are in wheelchairs and now they'll be able to join trips."
This inclusivity stands at the heart of Opaskwayak Cree Nation's community values and their ongoing commitment to ensuring all members can participate in cultural events, health initiatives, youth programs, and inter-community travel. The bus serves as a strategic investment in community infrastructure that will fulfill multiple purposes for years to come.
Strengthening Community Identity and Connection
The custom branding featuring "OPASKWAYAK CREE NATION" prominently displayed on the side of the bus carries significant meaning for the community.
As Chief Brown expressed, "It's so important that we have our name on the bus, Opaskwayak Cree Nation. It just signifies so many qualities that our community have exemplified over the years in building our community, a strong community, and we continue to grow, and it's just really exciting."
"It's so important that we have our name on the bus, Opaskwayak Cree Nation. It just signifies so many qualities that our community have exemplified over the years in building our community, a strong community, and we continue to grow, and it's just really exciting."
Chief Maureen Brown
Opaskwayak Cree Nation
The Nation already has plans for utilizing their new transportation resource, with potential trips including supporting their Junior B hockey team in Edmonton. This demonstrates how the bus will strengthen not only practical transportation needs but also community spirit and cultural connections across distances.
Through strategic planning and visionary leadership, Opaskwayak Cree Nation has secured a transportation solution that perfectly aligns with their community's values and long-term vision. The successful acquisition showcases what's possible when Indigenous leadership identifies and implements solutions tailored to their specific community priorities.
Thom Brokerage & Consulting is honored to have collaborated with the Opaskwayak Cree Nation’s Chief and Council on this initiative. We remain committed to working alongside Indigenous communities seeking to enhance their transportation infrastructure through similar projects.
Connect with us to explore how we can support your community's vision for accessible, community-centered transportation that meets your specific needs and priorities.
