Regina Transit Wants to Raise Bus Fares, Riders Are Unhappy

Regina Transit is thinking about raising bus fares by 10%. Some people who ride the bus are worried this will make it harder for them to travel. The city is also looking at new ways to pay for rides.
By Newsroom | Transit, Regina |

Regina, SK - A planned 10% increase in bus fares by Regina Transit is facing significant pushback from riders and advocacy groups. Concerns are being raised about accessibility and the impact on those who rely heavily on public transportation, particularly youth and lower-income individuals. The city council is set to review these proposals, which also include new cashless payment options and fare capping measures.

Context

Regina Transit is considering its first fare hike in nearly a decade. The proposal for a 10% increase comes as the transit system explores modernizing payment methods and implementing fare caps. Groups like Better Bus Youth and the Regina Citizens Public Transit Coalition have been vocal for years, advocating for greater transit accessibility, especially for riders under 18.

  • City data indicates a 4% decrease in ridership after a previous fare adjustment.

  • New cashless payment options and fare caps are being considered alongside the fare increase.

  • The Better Bus Youth group specifically aims for the complete removal of fares for riders under 18.

  • Currently, less than 10% of the average 1,000 daily riders pay with cash.

Evidence

The debate over Regina Transit fares involves various perspectives and data points:

  • Advocacy Group Concerns: Advocates, including Atticus Kolody-Watt of Better Bus Youth, have expressed their opposition at City Hall, highlighting personal reliance on transit.

  • Consultation Questions: Shanon Zachidniak has questioned whether the proposed fare rate increase considered sufficient public consultation during budget discussions.

  • City's Stance: The City of Regina has stated they will not provide further comment until the City Council makes a decision on the matter.

  • Ridership Data: City data shows a 4% drop in ridership following a previous fare adjustment.

  • Payment Trends: Regina Transit data reveals that fewer than 10% of daily riders currently use cash for payments.

Opposition to Fare Hike

Transit users and their supporters are actively voicing their disapproval of the proposed 10% fare increase. Critics argue that higher fares could further discourage ridership, particularly impacting vulnerable populations.

  • Accessibility: Concerns are centered on how increased fares might affect those who depend on Regina Transit for daily commuting, including students and low-income individuals.

  • Advocacy Efforts: Groups have organized at City Hall to present their opposition, with some sharing personal stories about their need for affordable transit.

  • Timing of Decision: Questions have been raised about the consultation process surrounding the fare hike proposal, with some feeling it was not adequately addressed during budget deliberations.

Modernization and Accessibility Initiatives

Alongside the proposed fare increase, Regina Transit is looking to introduce new technologies and policies aimed at improving the rider experience and potentially lowering costs for some.

  • Cashless Payments and Fare Capping: The introduction of new cashless payment methods and fare capping systems is intended to make transit more convenient and potentially more affordable.

  • Free Youth Transit Pilot: City Council has approved a pilot program offering free bus rides to youth, demonstrating a commitment to improving access for younger riders. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive city and support students who rely on public transit.

  • Goal for Youth Fares: While the current proposal includes a general fare hike, Better Bus Youth continues to advocate for the complete elimination of fares for riders under 18.

Data on Current Fare System

Information regarding Regina Transit's current fare structure and payment methods provides context for the ongoing discussions.

  • Umo Card System: Regina Transit utilizes a Umo Card system for payment, which allows for registration to protect rides and passes. Unregistered cards risk loss of value.

  • Employer Pass Program: A Transit Employer Pass is available through payroll deduction for employees of participating companies.

  • Cash vs. Digital Payments: Data indicates a significant shift towards non-cash payments, with less than 10% of daily riders using cash, suggesting a potential openness to further digital payment integration.

Expert Analysis

While direct expert commentary on this specific proposal is limited in the provided data, broader trends in public transit offer context. Urban planning experts often note that fare increases, without concurrent improvements in service or frequency, can lead to decreased ridership, disproportionately affecting lower-income communities. The move towards cashless systems and fare capping aligns with broader industry trends aimed at increasing efficiency and rider convenience. However, the success of such initiatives often depends on ensuring equitable access to the new technologies for all potential users.

Conclusion

Regina Transit's proposal for a 10% fare increase is a point of contention, with community groups and riders expressing concerns about accessibility and potential impacts on ridership. Simultaneously, the transit system is moving forward with modernization efforts, including cashless payments, fare capping, and a free youth transit pilot program. The City Council's upcoming decision will weigh the financial needs of the transit system against the community's desire for affordable and accessible public transportation. The success of future transit policy may hinge on balancing revenue generation with the objective of increasing ridership and serving the needs of all Regina residents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Regina Transit want to raise fares?
Regina Transit wants to raise fares to help pay for the service. They are also looking at new payment systems.
Q: Who is unhappy about the fare increase?
Many people who ride the bus are unhappy. Groups that help young people and people with less money are also worried.
Q: What else is Regina Transit doing?
They are looking at new ways to pay, like using phones or cards instead of cash. They also have a plan for free bus rides for young people for a short time.
Q: Will paying for the bus become easier?
Yes, they want to let people pay with cards or phones. They are also looking at ways to stop people from paying too much if they ride the bus a lot.