FREDERICTON – Proposed changes to Fredericton’s transit system has left one resident worried about what she’ll do if the changes come into effect.
Dr. Kathleen Hughes has a physical disability that prevents her from driving a vehicle. She’s depended on Fredericton’s transit system for years, but recently learned her route is on the chopping block.
“I can’t drive, and I’m nine months pregnant, and newborn car seats don’t fit in most taxi cabs in the city. So I really do rely on transit,” she said in an interview with Global News.
The city is proposing increased frequency to the system while eliminating two routes: Lincoln and Silverwood.
Hughes says she understands why changes need to be made, but feels the Lincoln route is still needed. She’s not sure what she’ll do if the route is cut.
“I, I mean I may have to start… I have no idea. I’m going to be completely stranded.”
The 2014 Fredericton Transit operating budget is $3,805,521. The city has projected revenue at about $1,729,000. According to a survey commissioned by the city, 98 per cent of residents feel the service is very or somewhat important.
City council is looking to city staff to create a system that increases ridership and makes more money.
“We’re listening, and we’ll take the feedback. Are there tweaks we can make? Perhaps,” said City Councillor, John MacDermid.
MacDermid is chair of the city’s transportation committee. He said the average daily ridership is about 5,000. The routes they’re looking at cutting see about 500.
“I would say that at this point and looking at the plan, it’s either do that, or we stick with what we have for the time being. And what we have right now really just doesn’t work.”
The city is holding an open house on June 26 at 6:30 pm at the Grant-Harvey Centre.
READ MORE: Changes to Fredericton’s Transit System
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