Competition for the car in the 905; more people taking transit

The 905’s love affair with the car may be waning. Transit systems across the GTA are reporting record year-over-year ridership numbers and while some of the credit –  or blame – is on soaring gas prices, it’s not the only reason.

There are more dedicated bus lanes, more express buses like Züm in Brampton, MiWay in Mississauga and VIVA in York Region and municipalities are also showing a commitment to providing dependable service.

Mississauga’s director of transit Geoff Marinoff saod investments in transit have made the service easier and more enjoyable to use. The system has seen a 5.9 per cent increase in the first four months of this year over the same period in 2010.

“The quality of people’s commutes is deteriorating and the costs are increasing. Transit can offer financial savings and some “me time” to read, relax, listen to music or just watch the world go by. It may not save commuting time but that time can be more enjoyable than sitting in bumper to bumper traffic,” he explained.

Of the major 905 transit systems, Brampton Transit has seen the biggest year-over-year first quarter increase at 17.4 per cent.

“We’ve really changed the perception of public transit. We’ve really marketed to the community that it’s not the loser cruiser. It’s the smart choice, it’s the better way and it’s a convenient way to travel,” said Sue Connor, executive director of Brampton Transit.

“Our travel times from Bramalea City Centre to York University through the rush hour is 35 minutes on some of our trips that take the 407 part way. And that’s a trip I’m not likely able to do in my car any faster,” Connor said.

At the busy Finch transit hub, York Region Transit and VIVA buses pull in and out and there’s a constant parade of passengers getting on and off.

Rim, on his way to Vaughan, told 680’s 905 reporter Charlene Close, taking the bus makes sense to his wallet.

“It is a choice. It’s much cheaper than driving the car with gas prices and insurance costs and repair costs. Obviously it’s much more cost effective,” he said.

Diana rides public transit across the GTA for her job. She likes that she doesn’t have to keep her eyes on the road.

“If I’m on a bus I can email on my phone or read,” she said.

However, not everyone is convinced that the bus is better. Jackie from Richmond Hill desperately wants her own wheels.

“I don’t have a car. If I had a car I’d be driving my car. I like driving.”

Rounding out the GTA’s year over year first quarter numbers; York Region Transit ridership is up 10.5 per cent, Durham Regional Transit is up 8.5 per cent and even smaller systems are seeing increases. Oakville‘s first quarter ridership is up 6.8 per cent over the same time last year.

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