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: “Needs more work.”
Gives current transit system a letter grade of B-.
Operating funding: Funding must be increased for transit.
Current funding from the federal government is going to rapid transit when it should go to safety, reliability and implementation of a frequent service network.
Frequency: Would work to improve route scheduling, add more buses, create free passes for students, seniors, persons with disabilities and low-income earners.
Would work to secure adequate funding from province and apply for funding from federal government.
Supports implementing light rail transit.
Safety: Supports implementing automated fare collection to reduce fare disputes between operators and riders. Additionally, look into purchasing buses with side door escapes, driver shields, real time cameras and peace officers.
Will present a plan to the provincial government for additional funding.
Fully supports FTW’s three campaign priorities: increased operating funding, implementation of a frequent service network and improved safety.
Three words: Fair but stressed.
Gives current transit system a letter grade of B for really great service in River Heights, Crescentwood and Fort Garry. The BRT line will move riders faster and take buses off Pembina Highway reducing congestion.
Vision is to provide a transit that is as reliable, fast and convenient for users as taking a car.
Safety: Supports expanding the driver shield program across entire fleet. Have Transit supervisors and police that can intervene when situations arise on the bus.
Safety: Supports ongoing discussions about safety with riders and drivers
Operating funding: Supports improving, expanding and funding transit.
Garth Steek
Did not respond to questionnaire