WINNIPEG -May 20, 2005 - Today the Rapid Transit Task Force released the results of the Exit Survey’s conducted at the two Public Open Houses which clearly indicates that a strong majority of respondents either “strongly support” or “support” the overall ‘Made in Winnipeg’ Rapid Transit System concepts presented by the Task Force.

A total of 279 participants attended the two open houses held on Saturday, May 14th and Monday, May 16th at the Winnipeg Convention Centre, with 187 of those completing the exit surveys. When asked if they support the overall concept being presented, 59.9% of citizens indicated they either strongly support or support the concept, 23.1% disagreed or strongly disagreed with the concept and 17% of respondents were neutral or undecided.

When the survey was broken down between the Three Concept Phases, Phase One was strongly supported or supported by 69.2% of respondents, Phase Two had the strong support/support of 65.7%, and Phase Three had 58% of respondents indicating strong support or support.

“Based on the public feedback at the open houses, it is clear to see that the hard work and dedication of the Task Force is producing results that will be a benefit to our city as we work towards a transit and rapid transit solution for Winnipeg”, said Mayor Sam Katz.

Of the exit survey respondents, 11% do not use the Winnipeg Transit system, and of the 89% that use transit, the majority (74.1%) uses it only once or twice a week. Only 25.2% indicated they use transit more than 10 times per week. There was a broad representation from all age groups, with a majority in the 25-34 (20.5%), 45-54 (21.6%) and 55-64 (17.6%) age categories.

“We wanted to hear if we were on the right track with the concepts we are working on, and I think Winnipegger’s have given us a clear indication to stay on track as we move towards our final report”, stated Councillor Russ Wyatt (Transcona) and Chairperson of the Task Force.

For More Information, contact: Russ Wyatt at 290-1440 or 311
The entire results of the public open houses will be posted on the Web site within the next 24 hours. http://www.rapidtransitwinnipeg.ca/