TORONTO – Temporary high-occupancy lanes, extended transit hours and shuttle buses are part of the Ontario government’s $61-million plan to ferry thousands of athletes and spectators to and from events during next year’s Pan Am and Parapan Games.

The plan calls for a 1,500-kilometre route linking venues, airports and the athletes’ village and includes close to 200 kilometres of new, temporary high-occupancy lanes.

It also stresses the need for residents and spectators to carpool or leave their cars behind in order to reduce congestion.

Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca says people will need to plan ahead but he believes the plan will help keep the region moving during the Games.

Some 7,500 athletes and 1.4 million spectators are expected for the Games in July and August.