By Nigel Maxwell

POLL: Petition calls for transit improvements in PA

Jan 9, 2014 | 5:27 AM

Prince Albert resident Patrick Fairbairn has some issues with the bus service in the city, and he is tired of waiting for answers.

On Monday, he started a petition with the hopes of getting the city's attention. So far, he has a few dozen signatures.

One of the main concerns raised by Fairbairn is the level of heat being provided on the buses.

“Right now, there are two drivers off sick, there are people sitting on the bus freezing, the drivers have been wearing all sorts of different stuff to stay warm,” said Fairbairn.

The petition also requests that the city extend the hours that the buses run.

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“There is no definite amount [signatures] I have to have. I mean if you walk up with 10 signatures, nobody is going to look [at] it. I'm shooting for 400 to 500 right now,” said Fairbairn.

Fairbairn's concerns may be addressed much sooner.

A report will come to council at an upcoming meeting which recommends extending the hours the buses run during the week and on Saturdays. Sunday service is not among the recommendations.

As for the concern regarding the heating, the city is addressing that issue this week.

“Right now we are doing tests on all our buses while they are en route with a heat gun to make sure they are blowing hot air,” said Keri Sexsmith, the city's transportation manager.

That being said, she added there is only so much the city can do.

“On our West Flat route, we have 33 stops and it's a 30-minute route so we are opening and closing the doors just about constantly so it's hard to keep that bus warm,” said Sexsmith.

She said the city recognizes there are issues with the transit system, and is hoping that with this report they can make the ride, and the bus service, a bit more enjoyable for the passengers.

nmaxwell@panow.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell