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Public transportation


Winnipeg Transit has noted that, during rush hour in Winnipeg, there is an average of 1.2 persons per car. At that rate, two buses could carry 100 cars worth of passengers, reducing congestion, noise and greenhouse gas emissions by over 90%. Suddenly, our transit system takes on a whole new world of value!

Public transportation saves more than time, space and fresh air. About 1,300 people are employed by public transit in Winnipeg. A Manitoban family can add $7,032 back into their yearly budget by including transit in their transport schedule! Transit systems even raise local property values.

An average family with a van spends about $975 a month on auto expenses, if you include ownership and operating costs (1).

Taking transit offers commuters freedom from:

  • Tailpipe emissions - car drivers are exposed to 10 times more air pollution than commuters who chose alternative transport systems.
  • Car-related expenses - the Canadian Automobile Association reports that the average annual cost to operate a car is $6000, whereas a bus pass costs about $700 for an entire year.
  • Parking hassles - finding parking at sporting events and cultural events can be tough. Sometimes the walk from you car seems as long as the drive that brought you there! Bus service will drop you off at the front doors.
  • Traffic - look at bus commuters. They are a pretty relaxed bunch. Someone else is dealing with driving. Transit users can also visit local cafes, bakeries and newstands before being carried calmly to their destination.


Check out Winnipeg Transit's innovative transit commuting programs such as EcoPass.