By Nigel Maxwell

POLL: Transit study recommends fare increase

Jan 13, 2014 | 5:24 AM

A study that recommends changes to Prince Albert's transit service is going back to the shop for repairs.

The transit study was scheduled to come to council Monday night, but city officials have requested more time for discussion, particularly around one recommendation of a fare increase.

City Hall was not prepared on Friday to discuss the details of the proposed increase.

The transit study is based on the feedback from the general public last summer, as well as post-secondary students.

Charlene Miller, Ward 1 councillor, has heard many concerns regarding the bus service. She said the biggest change people want is extended hours on Saturday, and service on Sunday.

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“I can see their concerns. The businesses are open longer periods of time; people have to get to work, and things like that,” said Miller.

The transit study is now scheduled to come to council on Jan. 27, but there are no guarantees when or if the proposed changes might take effect.

“We won't approve it until budget, if we approve it because it has to go to budget committee meetings,” said Miller.

Budget talks are expected to begin in March.

A petition, which calls for changes to the Prince Albert’s bus service, continues to circulate across the city — dozens of signatures have been collected so far.

Among other things, Patrick Fairbairn, who started the petition, raised issue with the level of heat being provided on the buses.

Earlier this month Coun. Miller rode the bus herself to test the complaint.

“To me, the concerns are valid. My feet were actually frozen by the time I got done and I went around the East Flat bus and the West Flat bus twice. My feet were frozen, and I dressed for the weather,” said Miller.

The city has requested that First Canada, the company that owns the buses, take a look at the buses to make sure they are working properly.

paNOW has attempted to contact First Canada for comment, but so far they have declined comment.

nmaxwell@panow.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell