Transforming transit in Niagara
Affordable public transit is a cornerstone of our community, impacting affordability, accessibility, and environmental sustainability. Join Wayne Olson as he shares insights and visions for a more connected Niagara.
The heart of community connectivity
Public transit has become a critical priority for addressing affordability, labour participation, access to arts and culture, and access to education and health services. It also plays a vital role in housing challenges, population growth, and the climate crisis. Having served on the Niagara Transit Commission for six years, Wayne Olson has a deep understanding of these connections and their impact on our community.
Success of on-demand transit
Our on-demand transit service in Pelham is designed for convenience, though it doesn't aim to perfectly match the spontaneity of using a personal vehicle. Despite tough market and post-COVID conditions, the Niagara Transit Commission's (NTC) on-demand ridership continues to grow. The on-demand, on-time performance is excellent at 98%, with an average wait time of around 13 minutes. Rider satisfaction is notably high, averaging 96%.
Who relies on our transit?
The primary users of our transit system are students, workers, seniors, and those accessing medical services. Each group has unique needs and challenges, which Wayne Olson is committed to addressing. The real system challenge has been a capacity issue—not enough vehicles and not enough drivers to meet the growing demand effectively.
Our vision for the future
Our dream for the local transit system is straightforward: more vehicles and more drivers to expand our services. The goal is to extend service to Sundays and holidays, ensuring greater accessibility and convenience for everyone in the community. This expansion is crucial for supporting our residents' needs and fostering a more connected Niagara.