Better transit expectations

UMSU wants 4- month post-secondary bus passes and better Handi-Transit

VERONICA CARR STAFF

At the beginning of every month the long line to get a new monthly bus pass is often an unwelcome chore for many students. The University of Manitoba’s Students’ Union (UMSU) is looking to change that — students might only have to line up every four months.

At the Feb. 8 UMSU council meeting it was mentioned that they are in meetings with Winnipeg Transit to negotiate further discounted fare for post-secondary students through a fourmonth bus pass.

“It’s important for students to be able to travel as cost-efficiently as possible and we hope that our efforts will encourage more students to use the transit system, as it is environmentally friendly,” said Rachel Gothilf, UMSU vice-president (external).

Students seem to be excited over the possibility of further discounts on their transit passes. Wendy Howell, a U1 student, said that “It’s amazing for those students who don’t live at home and really depend on those extra few dollars in their pockets.”

Another issue UMSU is trying to address is the lack of discounts Handi-Transit offers post-secondary student-riders.

Since Handi-Transit is only a branch of Winnipeg Transit and is considered to be a special unit, it hasn’t been able to offer any reduced fares to post-secondary students due to the high cost of providing the service.

All monthly bus pass purchasers, including Handi-Transit customers, can claim a 15.25 per cent federal government tax credit.

Ken Allen, a communication officer for the City of Winnipeg, would not comment on the issue as it is still in negotiations.

Aside from the choice of taking the bus, there are currently approximately 4,700 parking stalls available to students at the Fort Garry Campus for a fee of $439.90 per term, or if you are a residence student, $415.00.