Nick enquired about any future route changes. Staff relayed that Burlington Transit (BT) was in the process of hiring drivers as there is currently a shortage. Once driver complement increases, increase in bus frequency will be introduced.
Staff relayed that they are currently looking at ridership projections for the Bateman facility.
Alex enquired about the on-demand transit service that was being piloted. Staff relayed that the project is delayed due to challenges with staffing and technology.
Andrea commented that bus times do not coincide with secondary school bell times. Specifically M.M. Robinson where public transit gets students to school 5 minutes after the bell. Staff will bring the feedback to BT to compare bus times and school bell times.
Members discussed transit buses speeding in school zones. As public servants, they set an example for the public.
Thomas asked about passenger safety on BT given recent situations in the GTA. Staff relayed that at this time there were no concerns to report and field supervisors continue to work closely with drivers to support and create safe public transit.
Members enquired about free transit. Members support free public transit and are pleased to hear that youth are being offered free transit in off peak times (evenings and weekends), with the intention of expanding this to free overall. Councillor Stolte added that there are members of Council that would also like to see free transit expanded. Staff relayed that as bus capacity increases, they can consider increasing free options for riders.
Andrea suggested collaborating with school boards and student eco teams to promote free transit options for youth, and Nick suggested going into schools to issue presto cards rather than have students go to third party vendors or the bus terminal for a card. It was also suggested that the $6.00 fee be waived as this could be a deterrent to some youth.