How to make transit more women-friendly
Posted January 11, 2013 12:27 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – They’re the ones who take strollers aboard, and who climb on after a late shift.
Women in Vancouver are exploring whether the transit system is meeting the specific needs of their gender.
They need safe, affordable, convenient, and accessible transportation, says Ellen Woodsworth, former city councillor and now chair of Women Transforming Cities.
She points out women in general have lower incomes than men, and many work shifts.
“A lot of elderly women have complained about the No. 22 bus. They live in South Vancouver and that bus doesn’t come very often. A lot of women are complaining about the hike in the fare to $2.75 and wondering how much a three-zone fare is,” she says.
One study suggests 80 per cent of bus riders at night are women.
“Women often work late at night. They’re taking the bus after a night of cleaning or working at a bar.”
But is transit as safe as it could be, and are certain buses running frequently enough for elderly women?
Those questions will be brought up at a forum hosted by Women Transforming Cities on Wednesday, Jan. 16 at Kiwassa Neighbourhood House. TransLink reps will be there.
Women Transforming Cities says when transit meets the needs of girls and women, they gain equal access to jobs and community activities.
