The future of transit in Burlington the topic at upcoming public forum

Transit riders will be able to discuss their concerns and offer ideas for improvement at the upcoming Burlington Transit Users’ Forum.

The session will allow residents to provide input as well as to hear about local transit initiatives.

Burlington Transit Director Catherine Baldelli will be available to field questions and members of City Council will be present to discuss all transit issues. Other guest speakers will also be featured.

There will be presentations on transit electrification in Burlington, updates on the new free-transit programs for seniors and youth, and City council’s directive to investigate free transit for all. Other featured topics will include the need for continued operational funding from senior levels of government and the economic benefits of transit investment.

“Burlington’s Transit Users’ Forum is unique in Canada,” said Doug Brown, chair of Burlington for Accessible Sustainable Transit (BFAST), the lead organizer of the Forum.” There is no event like it anywhere else. It speaks to Burlington Transit’s commitment to engage with its riders that our transit agency supports and participates in this exercise, which is organized by citizen volunteers.” More than 140 people attended the last forum held four years ago.

Brown went on to say that the transit system faced challenges during the pandemic but was able to keep operating.

“While the service pulled through with flying colours, it faces new challenges, including electrification and the need to assume a leading role in local efforts to fight a warming climate,” said Brown.

One of the key issues we will discuss at the Transit Forum is the recent request by council for a cost-benefit analysis which may bring about free transit for all Burlington residents, regardless of age.

The forum will take place this Saturday, Sept. 23 at 1 p.m. in Centennial Hall at the Burlington Central Library

You can also participate through Zoom by registering in advance.