Feel safe on a bus? Saskatoon advocacy group wants to know

An organization made up of transit users in Saskatoon is holding two public forums Monday to talk about safety on the city's bus system.

The people sponsoring each event, Bus Riders of Saskatoon, say #YXE Let's Talk: Transit Safety is an opportunity for transit users to discuss any safety concerns they may have. Organizers say they especially want to hear about the needs of women, seniors and newcomers to Saskatoon.

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"A lot of people tell me they don't ride the bus because they feel uncomfortable on it and a lot of people who do ride the bus wish it were a lot safer especially at night,"Cameron McMillan, from Bus Riders of Saskatoon, said. "Around different bus stops and bus hubs, they don't feel particularly safe."

The group has two forums planned. The first is from noon until 3 p.m. and the second runs from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Both sessions will be at the Saskatoon Indian and Mtis Friendship Centre at 168 Wall St., in Saskatoon's downtown.

As a regular bus rider himself, McMillan said he's heard from others who take the bus and learned about a variety of issues.

He said poor lighting, on board and at some stops, is a major safety concern.

"Another concern is a lot of people aren't sure what to do if an incident occurs. Who they should talk to? So we want to find ways to approach all of these concerns," he said.

McMillan added that information gathered from the sessions will be complied in a report and provided to the Saskatoon Police Service, the City of Saskatoon and Saskatoon Transit.

Participants at the forum can expect to fill out a survey about transit safety as well as share their opinions on what can make transit safer and more attractive. The Bus Riders of Saskatoon said they welcome any input from the public through the group's website.

• EXTERNAL LINK: Bus Riders of Saskatoon.