Calgary city councillors are considering changes to the Calgary Transit bylaw to enhance safety and enforcement on public transit. The proposed amendments would better define loitering, add offenses for non-destination use of transit, and give peace officers the authority to request proof of age for young passengers. Additionally, there would be an offense for harassment, threats, and intimidation of riders, staff, and transit operators, with a fine of up to $600. These changes aim to address safety concerns and support transit operator and rider safety as part of the Public Transit Safety Strategy.
The Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 583 has expressed support for the proposed changes, as incidents involving operators continue to be a concern. Union president Mike Mahar highlighted the risks faced by operators during fare collection. The City of Calgary implemented a transit safety strategy in the past year to increase the presence of peace officers on transit, integrate various response teams, and make upgrades to stations for safety reasons. A recent survey found that a majority of Calgarians consider personal safety when deciding to take public transit, especially when riding buses versus CTrains, with higher perceived safety during the day compared to nighttime.
City councillor Courtney Walcott and Dan McLean have expressed approval for the proposed changes, emphasizing the importance of keeping the bylaw up to date with the actual enforcement needs. McLean also mentioned the idea of installing fare gates across the network to prevent non-destination riders, a concept that was previously rejected due to high costs. The proposed changes would also allow bikes on CTrains at all times, as a pilot project found minimal impacts on overcrowding during peak times. The proposed bylaw changes will be reviewed by Calgary’s Community Development Committee before going to city council for final approval later in the month.
The focus on safety and enforcement on Calgary Transit comes after ongoing incidents that have raised concerns about the well-being of operators and passengers. With input from transit peace officers and operators, the proposed changes aim to address common safety issues faced on public transit systems. The fines for offenses such as harassment and non-destination use of transit have been increased to deter such behavior and ensure a safer environment for all users. Overall, the changes are part of a broader effort to enhance the safety and security of Calgary’s public transit system and improve the experience for riders and staff.
The proposed amendments to the Calgary Transit bylaw are part of a comprehensive strategy to address safety concerns and improve enforcement on public transit. By defining offenses such as loitering, harassment, and non-destination use of transit, the changes aim to provide peace officers with the necessary tools to address safety issues effectively. The involvement of various stakeholders, including transit peace officers, operators, and city councillors, demonstrates a collaborative approach to improving public transit safety. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safer, more secure environment for all passengers and staff on Calgary Transit, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.
