Cara Loverock
Northern News Services
Published Wednesday, November 21, 2007

YELLOWKNIFE - None of the $400,000 from the federal government in public transit money has been earmarked for transit for the disabled, according to city municipal works engineer.

Melissa Scott, a bus driver with the Yellowknife Accessibility Transit System (YATS), helps a passenger board the bus with the use of a hydraulic lift in December 2005. - NNSL file photo

"I know there has been money approved for bus shelters and we're applying for money for the route analysis that's going to be happening," said Wendy Alexander.

"But I don't think any money's been specifically set aside for the accessible transit system."

Since its creation in 2005, the Yellowknife Accessible Transit System (YATS) program has grown to include 132 users around the city.

At this point a need for an expansion of the system has not been demonstrated, said Alexander, but a survey is being conducted on how the system is working and what changes are needed.

The bus, operated through Cardinal Coachlines, is equipped with a hydraulic lift and conducts door-to-door service.

Seniors Rose Guspodarchuk and Helen Kronstal both said that since the implementation of YATS, it has been much easier to get around the city.

"They couldn't have done anything better for the seniors," said Guspodarchuk. "We can get around now."

Clem St. Croix, who uses a wheelchair, said Yellowknife's transit system for the disabled is helpful for creating accessibility in the city, but improvements are needed.

"You don't know what it's like in a wheelchair until you sit in it," said St. Croix.

St. Croix said he uses the system frequently, for a flat rate of $2.50 a ride, but finds the hours of service are limited.

"With the amount of people using (the service), the hours of operation need to be extended," said St. Croix.

He said that late night activities, such as going to a movie, are not always an option.

"There is no resources and you're hit and miss if an accessible taxi is available," said St. Croix, "So, what do you do? You stay home."