A transit advocacy group says investing in a more reliable, frequent transit system could improve the economy and reduce unemployment.
Activate Transit Windsor Essex conducted a survey of community members in November 2021 to share their experiences and concerns regarding public transit in the region.
The survey found frequency and dependability as the top concerns of individuals who rely on transit to get around. Many comments also illustrated how individuals who rely on public transit are often shut out of employment opportunities and become trapped in a cycle of poverty.
"People can't access a car so they rely on public transit which means that they are denied the opportunities of employment or they can't access them and they are stuck in poverty, then they can't access a car and the cycle goes on," said organizer Julian Villafuerte.
The group is calling on policymakers to improve bus frequency, implement the Transit Master Plan and recognize transit as an essential service. They believe this will reduce inequality and end the chronic cycle of high unemployment.
"If you want to run an economy that does anything, if you want to run an economy that builds cars you need to make sure that people are able to participate in that economy and for that you need various modes of mobility," said Villafuerte.
