Winnipeg Transit fares to see inflationary increase
The City of Winnipeg released more information on Saturday regarding Winnipeg Transit investments in the preliminary 2022 balanced budget, saying fares will see an inflationary increase of five cents.
The city said the preliminary budget shows a shortfall of $26.4 million in Winnipeg Transit, due to lower ridership caused by the pandemic.
To offset this shortfall, the budget proposes the six per cent reduction in transit services that was adopted by city council in the 2021 balanced budget update.
The proposed budget also proposes a one-time drawdown on transit’s retained earnings.
The city noted these proposals would result in a shortfall reduction of about $5.9 million and a net shortfall of $20.5 million in 2022 that would be covered by Winnipeg. It added that tax-supported subsidy to transit is proposed at $97.6 million for 2022.
“In spite of a challenging year for Winnipeg Transit finances, we are holding the line on this critical service for our economy, transportation system, and climate, while continuing to move forward with the newly adopted Winnipeg Transit Master Plan,” said Matt Allard, chairperson of the standing policy committee on infrastructure renewal and public works, in a news release.
According to the city, investments in active transportation will increase by 54.2 per cent – going from $5.8 million in 2021 to $8.9 million in 2022. Some of the active transportation investments include $1.2 million for protected bike lanes; $1 million for the Transcona Trail extension study and construction; and $825,000 in 2023 for bike path improvements on Jubilee Avenue that will connect the active transportation network from Pembina Highway to Churchill Drive.
“Active transportation is a critical tool in our fight against climate change and for providing Winnipeggers with safe and convenient transportation options, and we must continue to commit to the full implementation of the active transportation strategies, and beyond,” Allard said.
According to the city, its six-year capital investment plan includes 510.1 million in government funding to support the Transit Master Plan through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program – Public Transit Infrastructure Stream Funding application. This application includes investments for a shift to zero emission buses, the rapid transit preliminary design, and a north garage replacement.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
How quietly promised law changes in the 2024 federal budget could impact your day-to-day life
The 2024 federal budget released last week includes numerous big spending promises that have garnered headlines. But, tucked into the 416-page document are also series of smaller items, such as promising to amend the law regarding infant formula and to force banks to label government rebates, that you may have missed.
Which foods have the most plastics? You may be surprised
'How much plastic will you have for dinner, sir? And you, ma'am?' While that may seem like a line from a satirical skit on Saturday Night Live, research is showing it's much too close to reality.
opinion I've been a criminal attorney for decades. Here's what I think about the case against Trump
Joey Jackson, a criminal defence attorney and a legal analyst for CNN, outlines what he thinks about the criminal case against Donald Trump in the 'hush money trial.'
$3.8M home in B.C.'s Okanagan has steel shell for extra wildfire protection
A home in B.C.'s Okanagan that features a weathering steel shell designed to provide some protection against wildfires has been listed for sale at $3.8 million.
Diver pinned under water by an alligator figured he had choice. Lose his arm or lose his life
An alligator attacked a diver on April 15 as he surfaced from his dive, nearly out of air. His tank emptied with the gator's jaws crushing the arm he put up in defence.
Psychologist becomes first person in Peru to die by euthanasia after fighting in court for years
A Peruvian psychologist who suffered from an incurable disease that weakened her muscles and had her confined to her bed for several years, died by euthanasia, her lawyer said Monday, becoming the first person in the country to obtain the right to die with medical assistance.
Mystery surrounds giant custom Canucks jerseys worn by Lions Gate Bridge statues
The giant stone statues guarding the Lions Gate Bridge have been dressed in custom Vancouver Canucks jerseys as the NHL playoffs get underway.
Celebrity designer sentenced to 18 months in prison for smuggling crocodile handbags
A leading fashion designer whose accessories were used by celebrities from Britney Spears to the cast of the 'Sex and the City' TV series was sentenced Monday to 18 months in prison after pleading guilty in Miami federal court on charges of smuggling crocodile handbags from her native Colombia.
Wildfire leads to evacuation order issued for northeast Alberta community
An evacuation order was issued on Monday afternoon for homes in the area of Cold Lake First Nation.