Camera courtesy of Voth's Countrywide - Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1

A bigger government subsidy is on the way for the Saskatchewan Transportation Company.

The Crown bus company is anticipating a $9 million grant from the province this year, after 2009 saw declining ridership and revenues.  The subsidy is up from the $7.8 million that STC received in 2009.

STC saw net expenditures out-pace revenues by $11 million, and their buses carried slightly more than 258,000 passengers in 2009.  That number is down 4.25% from 2008.

There were a few positives for STC, however.  They introduced new amenities, such as wireless internet on some routes, and had a satisfaction rating of 91% from riders.  Also, a senior's seat sale in September increased ridership in that category by 227%.