All candidates were sent a questionnaire put together by Functional Transit Winnipeg and given several weeks to reply. Responses have been summarized below. You can read each candidate’s full response and the questions we asked by following the link underneath each summary.
Functional Transit Winnipeg’s priorities for this election are increased operating funding for transit, implementation of a frequent service network and measures to address driver and passenger safety. We have noted comments related to those priorities in the summaries.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Can do better.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C-. Level of service is not getting better.
A stable, reliable and safe transit system can empower many people that live in our community.
Safety: Transit safety is not simply putting police officers on buses at random. We need a long-term strategy that will deliver positive results and be cost effective.
Need to push for a task force to review internal and external operational issues and needs. This task force needs to be a local group consisting of actual bus drivers, maintenance members, passengers, route/scheduling personal and an outside expert that can provide examples of alternative effective solutions.
A stronger focus on using current resources more effectively can help bring improvement to Transit. Would re-engage the provincial government for funding.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Antiquated, underutilized, unimaginative.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C+ due to lack of innovation and technological advances.
It is estimated that the extra cost for an electric bus will pay for itself in 7 years. They are also quieter and reduce pollution.
Ridership can be increased with a $2 fare.
Wants Transit Hubs (a place for a park and ride), especially in new developments.
Safety: The security of the drivers is paramount as they are responsible for the safe operation of the bus and for the safety of the passengers. The presence of Cadets or Transit Constables on buses could help increase safety.
Operating funding: Would push for more funding to bring our Transit system into the 21st century and be a world leader in public transportation.
While the city grows, so should Transit and other services. Would push for more funding for electric buses from Manitoba Hydro and the Provincial Government.
Supports extending transit service to Bell MTS Iceplex, Red River Exhibition and Assiniboia Downs
Supports improving service to Ridgeway South and other neighbourhoods north of the CN Rail mainline.
Operating funding: Supports expansion of service through expansion of transit’s budget.
Safety: Alter where buses end their shift to locations where supervisors are available to assist if needed
Safety: Would possibly support having undercover police officers on buses watching for incidents.
Safety: Would look into having alternate exits for drivers when new buses are purchased.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “More work required.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of C, as service is below average.
Supports promotion of an electric transit fleet made up of articulated buses.
Would like to implement park and rides at major entry points to the city near Perimeter Highway.
Safety: To address safety, would like to see transit shields continue to be installed and, where possible, installation of left door exits for drivers, LED distress lights on the exterior of buses and security on each bus if sustainable.
Funding is holding back our transit system. Funding should be found through lobbying the province and from the federal government for funding.