A member of the city council in Winnipeg has raised concerns about the lack of fairness in the city’s revamped bus network, citing reduced services in certain neighborhoods. Councilor Sherri Rollins from Fort Rouge-East Fort Garry highlighted criticisms from various stakeholders, including riders, labor representatives, and community advocates, regarding the new transit system. The updated network has seen approximately 1,200 fewer stops, with a disproportionate removal of stops from lower-income areas. Rollins emphasized the need for a system that caters to the needs of the community.
The recent overhaul of Winnipeg Transit’s routes in late June aimed to streamline services by adopting a new “spine-and-feeder” model, departing from the previous “hub-and-spoke” approach. While the goal was to enhance frequency and reliability, feedback from passengers following the changes has been largely negative. Commuters have expressed frustrations over longer travel times, crowded buses, and inconvenient schedules, particularly affecting those returning home late at night.
Jeff Lieberman, the president of the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg, shared the challenges faced by cleaning staff at a local community campus due to altered bus routes. Workers now have to endure a 20-minute walk after their shifts end, affecting their safety and well-being, especially during harsh weather conditions. Similarly, David Kron, the executive director of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba, highlighted the added difficulties for individuals with mobility issues due to longer walking distances to reach bus stops.
Despite ongoing feedback, Winnipeg Transit has announced minor adjustments in response to rider concerns, with more comprehensive changes slated for November. While acknowledging some improvements in the new network, Chris Scott, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1505, acknowledged the disconnect between the system’s design and its impact on commuters. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the needs of riders in future revisions.
Mayor Scott Gillingham reassured the public that Transit officials are actively reviewing feedback and considering further modifications to address the identified issues. He encouraged continued engagement from commuters to help shape a more responsive and inclusive transit system. Expanding on-demand services to areas with limited bus routes operating at late hours was proposed as an immediate solution to enhance accessibility for residents in affected neighborhoods.
