Connecting Communities: Strengthening Public Transportation Options in Rural Manitoba

 Friday, October 18th 

Brandon University, John E. Robbins Library or via Zoom

12 – 1:15pm

Light lunch provided for in-person attendees

Rural communities in Manitoba face significant transportation challenges, relying heavily on personal vehicles and friends for rides. This hinders medical care, economic growth, and community development. While some municipalities offer handi-van services for seniors and those with mobility needs, other groups, like low-income individuals and youth, often lack support.

Research from Manitoba’s Climate Action Team alongside the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives examines how the province can better support inter-community transit solutions in rural and remote Manitoba. It includes an exploration of the positive outcomes of inter-community transportation demonstrated in Manitoba and in other jurisdictions, case studies from Ontario and Nova Scotia, results of a public consultation with rural Manitobans, and concludes with recommendations targeted at the provincial government.

At our launch, we’ll share highlights of our findings and recommendations, as well as hear from representatives of rural municipalities and organizations that are working on solutions across Manitoba. 

Hannah Muhajarine

Connecting Communites Report Author and Policy Researcher with Manitoba’s Climate Action Team

Niall Harney

Senior Researcher at the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives – Manitoba, where he holds the Errol Black Chair in Labour Issues – named in honour of the late Brandon City Councillor and economist, Errol Black

Connie Gamble

Data Collection Ambassador for the Southeast Regional Transportation Initiative (SERTi)