Saskatoon proposes bylaw to tackle bus safety, fare evasion

Saskatoon is considering new measures to tackle safety issues and fare evasion on its public transit system. A proposed bylaw, set for city council review in July, would allow for bans on disruptive passengers and crack down on those not paying their fares. These changes come as the city prepares for the 2028 launch of its bus rapid transit system and seeks to reverse a nearly 7% drop in ridership in 2025, with safety cited as a primary concern.

“

People do drugs on the bus. I was on the bus, and a couple of people were literally smoking out of a pipe, on the bus.

Riders have reported incidents of drug use and disruptive behavior on buses, leading to feelings of insecurity. Mary Fedun, a long-time rider, expressed frustration with seeing drug use on board. The proposed bylaw aims to create a safer environment by giving authorities more tools to manage passenger conduct and ensure fare payment.

“

I don’t appreciate getting on the bus and the first thing I see are drugs.

The Amalgamated Transit Union local 615 is hopeful these measures will enhance the transit experience. "The city and the province are investing $250 million into a system to move people within Saskatoon, and if you don’t make it attractive, reliable, and convenient, they’re not going to ride it," said Darcy Pederson of the union. The union emphasizes that safety and reliability are key to encouraging ridership, especially with the upcoming bus rapid transit system.

“

These officers that are going to be coming, it is a relief knowing that. But I am anxious to see how they will enforce.

In addition to the bylaw, a transit policing program has been approved, which riders like Mary Fedun see as a relief, though she remains anxious about its enforcement. The city report also highlights a significant decline in fare revenue, partly due to increased fare evasion. The new bylaw could require passengers to provide proof of payment upon request, aiming to recoup lost revenue and ensure compliance.

“

The city and the province are investing $250 million into a system to move people within Saskatoon, and if you don’t make it attractive, reliable, and convenient, they’re not going to ride it.