Winnipeg, MB ‐ Winnipeg Transit’s recent service announcement for the Southwest Corridor is an exciting development for bus riders in Winnipeg, but there is potential for negative experiences to outweigh the positives.
High frequency service is key to making transit the most desirable mode of transportation and Functional Transit Winnipeg is pleased to see the city taking bold steps in service planning including the introduction of frequent service principles.
“FTW has long advocated higher frequency service in Winnipeg and this is an example of the beginning of the process. However, low frequency on feeder routes connecting to the corridor has the potential to create long waits if missed connections occur,” said Derek Koop, President of Functional Transit Winnipeg.
FTW is concerned about the effectiveness of this strategy if it is not funded and supported by transit friendly developments. FTW has consistently pointed to the location of the Southwest Corridor as highly problematic for riders given the low population density surrounding stations, and poor nearby walkability.
The lack of transit‐oriented development along the corridor, and fears that such principles will not be rigorously applied where development can occur are also concerns. Any service plan will struggle in this location, but with frequent feeder lines running away from the corridor, much of the location challenges could be mitigated.
Additionally, it must be remembered that frequent service is about expanding the purpose of transit beyond just commuting.
“Frequent service is about making transit oriented lifestyles possible. It’s not just about commuting to work, it’s about getting to grocery stores, daycares, hair dressers and all the places Winnipeggers travel to regularly,” said Koop. “We need to see frequent service connect homes to amenities on Pembina Highway, Kenaston, Taylor and Osborne.”
FTW welcomes the city’s new attempt to deliver a bold vision for Winnipeg’s Transit’s future, but a commitment to frequent feeder service during the evening and on the weekend are necessary for this plan to succeed