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: “Focused on improvement.”
A reliable, safe transit system is important to every city.
Supported Winnipeg Transit’s current budget including transit review.
Supports long term strategic plan for Winnipeg Transit.
Winnipeg’s transit system in three words: “Unreliable, infrequent, frustrating.”
Frequency: Gives current transit system a letter grade of C due to lack of frequency during off-peak times, and lack of busses to add service and alleviate crowding during rush hours. A frequent service network and modernized route network will better serve our city’s needs.
Transit is important to Winnipeggers due to growing traffic congestion and rising cost of car ownership. People recognize Winnipeg Transit as a service that could be excellent but is not quite there yet.
Safety: Safety issues can be resolved by separating driving duties from fare enforcement duties and reducing transfer times at isolated bus stations.
It is crucial that we work towards restoring the 50/50 funding agreement with the Province.
Shawn Dobson
Did not respond to questionnaire