Thunder Bay City Council has voted down a proposal to temporarily change the city’s bus service this summer.
Thunder Bay Transit suggested reducing bus frequency on several routes while increasing service on the Mainline route. The changes were meant to help deal with a shortage of bus drivers that has caused last-minute cancellations.
Council rejected the proposal during a vote on Tuesday.
Fred Caputo, president of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 966, said the union was pleased with the decision and glad council considered the concerns raised by transit workers and the public.
Transit officials said the system is currently operating at about 96 per cent service, below the 99 per cent target. This summer, it could drop to about 92 per cent because fewer drivers are expected to be available due to vacation, sick leave, or other absences.
If the temporary service reductions had been approved, transit said it would have helped maintain more reliable service while the city continues to hire more drivers.
Coun. Andrew Foulds voted against the proposal, saying the current transit situation is already difficult for residents who rely on buses to get to work or appointments. He said reducing service would make trips even longer for riders.
City transit officials say they are now reviewing their next steps.
Meanwhile, the reopening of the Waterfront Transit Terminal has been delayed again due to construction issues. The city now expects it to open in mid-to-late April.
