University of Manitoba Students Hit Hard by Transit Overhaul

UPDATE: A significant overhaul of Winnipeg Transit routes is causing chaos for students at the University of Manitoba, with many arriving late for classes or resorting to costly alternatives such as Uber. This disruption follows the launch of a new spine-and-feeder system on September 4, which has left students waiting for buses that frequently pass by full.

Brandon Boone, whose first-year daughter faced a disheartening first day, described her ordeal waiting over an hour in the pouring rain. Boone’s daughter ultimately had to call an Uber to make it to campus. “This is the definition of failing to meet basic services requirements,” he stated, highlighting that buses on a major route should not leave students stranded.

The University of Manitoba Students’ Union president, Prabhnoor Singh, confirmed that he has received numerous complaints from students regarding the transit changes. A staggering 92 percent of students surveyed reported that the new system has made commuting to campus more difficult, resulting in longer wait times and increased inconvenience.

Singh noted that some students have opted to move into on-campus residences due to the challenges posed by the new transportation system. “They said it was more economical for them to live on campus at this point,” Singh explained, underscoring the financial strain the transit issues are causing students.

The frustration extends beyond university students. Jeff Anderson, assistant superintendent of the Louis Riel School Division, reported that out of 333 surveys received, 92 percent of parents expressed dissatisfaction with the new bus routes for school children. Many noted that the changes now require multiple transfers or longer waiting times, complicating daily commutes.

While city officials acknowledge the challenges, including Councillor Janice Lukes, who chairs the public works committee and plans to address these issues in an upcoming meeting, a spokesperson for Winnipeg Transit stated that only minor adjustments have been made thus far. Major changes are not anticipated for another year.

Singh’s observations reveal that some students are now spending more than four hours daily on transit, a significant increase from the two hours they previously experienced. “Buses are often full by the time they reach students’ stops,” he added, emphasizing the urgency of addressing these issues.

The backlash against the transit changes has sparked discussions at city hall, with officials promising to engage with transit authorities to seek solutions. Stakeholders are demanding immediate feedback mechanisms to ensure that necessary adjustments are made swiftly, as the current system is leaving many students and parents frustrated and delayed.

As winter approaches, the urgency to resolve these transit issues escalates. Students and parents alike are left wondering how long it will take for Winnipeg Transit to adapt and meet basic service needs. Stay tuned for updates as this situation develops.