Calgary’s city council is set to debate a list of proposed changes aimed at improving the experience for passengers on Calgary Transit. The motion, put forward by Ward 3 Coun. Jasmine Mian, includes 15 service changes such as extending the validity of fares from 90 minutes to 120 minutes, eliminating digital ticket expiry, and providing real-time information on CTrain locations and arrival times to third-party map apps. These changes are intended to enhance the overall transit experience for riders by making trips more efficient and reliable.
One of the key issues raised by CTrain users is the need for real-time information on LRT arrival times. Proposed changes also include the implementation of GPS use for transit operators to reduce routing errors, improve detour adherence, and increase efficiency. The motion also suggests partnering with major events and sports teams to include transit passes in ticket prices. These proposed changes aim to complement ongoing efforts to improve safety on the transit network and increase service frequency. According to Calgary Transit Riders chair Jakob Fushtey, these changes are expected to have a significant positive impact on riders.
Calgary Transit Riders, a local transit advocacy group, collaborated with Coun. Mian to survey hundreds of transit users at various stations to gather feedback and inform the list of proposed suggestions for enhancing the user experience. Other suggested changes include installing station-area context maps at all LRT stations, adding train departure boards in non-platform areas and high traffic areas, and updating announcements on all MAX BRT and LRT lines to include transfers to other priority transit network lines. These changes aim to make transit more user-friendly and encourage people to continue using public transportation.
While the motion does not include information on potential costs or implementation within Calgary Transit’s existing budget, this information is expected to be provided to council in May as part of an update on RouteAhead. Ward 1 Coun. Sonya Sharp expressed support for the ideas in Mian’s motion but emphasized the importance of understanding the costs associated with the proposed changes. It is crucial for riders to feel that transit is reliable and safe, and that council is investing in the right areas of transit to ensure a return on investment.
Calgary Transit has stated that they are continuously seeking ways to improve their service and are open to ideas from individuals and advocacy groups. They are already exploring and implementing various items to enhance the transit experience. A detailed response to the recommendations in the notice of motion will be provided as part of the RouteAhead update in May. Ward 11 Coun. Kourtney Penner emphasized the importance of implementing solutions that will benefit Calgarians, and she believes that the proposed changes will help achieve that goal. The motion will be further discussed by council later in the month to determine the feasibility of implementing these suggested improvements.
