tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-385036532024-02-20T04:55:17.324-08:00Go Transit SafetyChris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-73432647857649042842016-01-15T05:29:00.005-08:002016-01-15T05:29:58.951-08:00Signal IssuesIt is a New Year for Go Transit. Last year was a good year as far as delays, however this year signals a poor year for service so far. It is only 15 days in and we are constantly seeing door issues and signal issues. The usual excuse is the weather but the funny thing his that if you compare the first 15 days of this year to the first 15 of last year the weather is considerably better.<br />
<br />
Although there was the one day last year where Go Transit was in chaos but they said they realize those mistakes and are looking to improve.<br />
<br />
My advice to Go Transit is that winter is coming, more of it, a stronger one. Send someone in now to check and maintain the switches and doors on your trains especially on the Lakeshore line where you run the most trains. <br />
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I look forward to comments from Go Transit on this matter and if they plan to be proactive in providing better service by preparing for winter.<br />
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To those stuck on these trains due to signal issues, it gives you time to ponder your new year. What do you want out of this year? At <a href="http://www.readwatchcreate.com/" target="_blank">Readwatchcreate</a>, our vision is to strengthen the global community through mentoring.<br />
<br />
If you have goals you are wanting to reach but have no idea where to start, email us at <a href="mailto:chris.williams@readwatchcreate.com">chris.williams@readwatchcreate.com</a> or <a href="mailto:rebecca.clinch@readwatchcreate.com">rebecca.clinch@readwatchcreate.com</a> and we can assist you. <br />
<br /><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-30337652031469645522015-06-08T14:15:00.001-07:002015-06-08T14:15:26.528-07:00This is why I am glad I take Go Transit more often than the TTC<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.0000400543213px; line-height: 18.9000549316406px;">It is interesting that passenger safety is paramount, however no shuttle buses were available when they usually are and crowds of passengers for the commute crowd Union Station and the busy downtown core causing a safety issue.</span><br />
<br />
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/toronto-subway-shutdown-causes-early-morning-commuter-chaos-1.3104230<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14.0000400543213px; line-height: 18.9000549316406px;">"Passengers' safety is paramount and shutting down the subway system in lieu of the ability to communicate with subway trains was the responsible thing to do," said TTC chair and Toronto Coun. Josh Colle in a statement.</span></blockquote>
I have been in Toronto for various transit outages and this is the first time I have not seen shuttle buses available. Just google it to see that when Yonge Bloor got shut down both directions due to someone digging too deep at Yonge/Bloor or previous full system power outages. Take a look at the procedure that Adam Giambrone laid out a few years ago of the process.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.0000400543213px; line-height: 18.9000549316406px;">https://www.facebook.com/notes/adam-giambrone/what-happens-in-the-subway-when-the-power-goes-out/46586563163</span></span></blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">More often than not, shuttle buses will be provided in areas where subway service is down. That said, there is no way to handle subway capacities on buses, so if people can walk, bike or take a taxi for urgent trips, they are encouraged to do so. If the disruption is not during rush hour, spare buses may be deployed as shuttles, and extra operators called in to drive them. However, in rush hour, there are no spare buses, as they’re all already in regular service. In this case, staff must divert buses from other routes to act as shuttles—a few buses from here and there across the system. The Commission has over 1700 buses, so you can imagine the complexity of deciding which buses to take from where—and of course it must all be done extremely quickly, so they arrive before they’re no longer needed! This is an extraordinary behind-the-scenes process, which must be undertaken while riders are growing increasingly frustrated by the minute. And of course, once things return to normal, it must all be put back in place again.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;"> </span></blockquote>
I fear this process that Adam mapped out was not followed and that is why there was chaos. People need to look at the disaster recovery plan and if it has changed from Adam's approach then it needs to revert back.<br />
<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-37768402981531076602015-02-25T06:38:00.001-08:002015-02-25T06:38:07.470-08:00Train Travelling At Lightning Speed Through Mimico Train Yard?Well maybe not lightning speed but well over the posted speed limit. I was on the delayed Lakeshore West train that was scheduled to leave Burlington station at 7:13 am. As we boarded the train they mentioned the train behind us and understandably to save on Service Guarantee cost they let it pass us. Not impressed but understand business bottom lines and accept the free ride.<br />
<br />
However, the point of my post is SAFETY. You probably remember years back that freight train moving too fast through the yard that crashed in the Mimico yard. Turns out he was speeding. Even worse the VIA train near King Rd Yard in Burlington that was going too fast and crashed that killed 3 and injured more.<br />
<br />
http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2012/02/27/via_rail_derailment_passengers_describe_chaos_terror_in_deadly_burlington_train_crash.html<br />
<br />
I ride the train a lot and generally there is caution around the yards. Today is an extremely cold day we have had a mixture of warmer and colder days. This is perfect condition for the tracks to tighten. When they tighten additional speed can cause derailments. It is this reason that I report this on my blog. I also called Go Transit customer relations this morning to report it as well. The first rep was rude because she thought I was complaining that the train was 34 minutes late but I clarified that I was actually reporting a safety issue and the passed me on.<br />
<br />
I look forward to a response from Go Transit on this, how they are going to look into it and ensure their staff is aware of this deadly safety issue.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-21657357404210271412014-05-28T17:44:00.003-07:002014-05-28T17:44:55.561-07:00Go says No Buses, Construction says limited Gardner, Construction says Limited Lakeshore, Commuters say "Let us work from home :)<span style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;">Metrolinx continues to be in contract negotiations with the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1587, the union that represents approximately 1,850 GO Transit bus drivers, station attendants, maintenance personnel, transit safety and some office staff. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;">While we are hopeful that a settlement can be reached, we are advising customers that the ATU's strike date is June 2, 2014. In the event of a labour disruption, regular GO Train service would continue to get you to your destination, but there would be no GO Bus service. Additionally, there would be no weekend GO Train service to Niagara and Barrie. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;">Customers who would be impacted by the disruption to GO bus service, are encouraged to consider other travel options. GO Train customers are also encouraged to consider alternate travel options to the GO station as there may be increased demand on rail services and parking facilities. These options could include taking local transit, bicycling, carpooling (visit www.smartcommute.ca for information on our Carpoolzone program), etc. We also encourage you to load your PRESTO cards online in advance.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #3f3f3f; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 18.933332443237305px;">We recognize that a labour disruption would create an inconvenience for you. We remain hopeful that a settlement can be reached as we continue our negotiations. We will continue to communicate updates through the GO Transit website (www.gotransit.com), Social Media channels, "On the GO Alerts", and the Contact Centre. We encourage you to check our website daily as information will be updated as it becomes available. </span><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-1559284137164652462014-05-28T06:40:00.001-07:002014-05-28T06:40:33.281-07:00Revenue Canada Computer Systems Inadequate is causing Presto users to fail on Transit Tax CreditPlease pass on this link to your federal politicians and media outlets. Make them aware of the fact that Revenue Canada's computer systems are inadequate and thus are causing undue punishment on people who take the train to save the environment.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://ecommerceguild.blogspot.ca/2014/05/open-letter-to-federal-politicians.html">Open Letter to Federal Politicians regarding Inadequate Computer Systems at Revenue Canada </a><br />
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If you have any questions please email <a href="mailto:chris.williams@techguilds.com">chris.williams@techguilds.com</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-14864076447684910912014-01-27T16:55:00.001-08:002014-01-27T16:55:42.769-08:00Declined for a Trip you know was more than 15 minutes late here is whyJust got off the phone with a Supervisor at Go Transit about the January 21, 2014 morning cancellations and eventualy 25 minute trip delay.<br />
<br />
Seems there is a problem with the Presto Software in that it expects you to take the next ride in 15 minutes. If there is a cancellation of a trip and you catch the next train this is outside the 15 minute range so when you make a trip claim it states the trip is not on your card.<br />
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Go Transit is sending this issue on to the presto team to resolve however in the meantime, there are two ways to avoid the issue.<br />
<br />
1) If your trip gets cancelled you need to cancel your Presto transaction and retap for the next ride. This will ensure you are on the right train according to Presto.<br />
<br />
2) As is usually the case with Go Transit, they announce the cancelled train only a few minutes before the next one arrives and you don't have time to walk back and tap cancel then retap. If this is the case then it is simple, enter your trip as per normal online, however immediately call Go Transit and as to speak to the supervisor. He will ensure the problem is resolved. It is best to do it the day you enter the claim as it will be fresh in your mind when it happened and the times.<br />
<br />
The more people that make claims for the 15 minutes and especially the more that follow up when claims are denied the better Go Transit Service we will all experience. It is your duty to make them accountable.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-48736552021989180002013-12-16T11:06:00.000-08:002013-12-16T11:06:37.427-08:00One Blog Post To Rule Them All: The TTC has come a long way with a single postIf you have not read Andy Byford's post today on the TTC Blog you should. It is finally a positive step in the right direction. Determining the cause of issues is the start to finding solutions.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.ttc.ca/News/2013/December/1612_Statement.jsp">https://www.ttc.ca/News/2013/December/1612_Statement.jsp</a><br />
<br />
We look forward to the next steps of finding solutions like:<br />
<br />
* Adding that extra rail to bypass during issues.<br />
* Communication with passengers, potential passengers, and just between staff to find alternate routes around things like broken water-mains.<br />
* Building a Subway rather than an LRT across Shephard Line to reduce future delays due to inclimate weather. <br />
* Maybe even covering or burying some of the existing subway that is outside to reduce delays due to inclimate weather.<br />
<br />
NOTE: You don't have to bury the subway underground you just need to cover the tracks to keep the heat in so the tracks and switches dont freeze and the engines can handle it.<br />
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Anyways, off topic a bit the point is finally the TTC is heading in the right direction to becoming the Better Way. Let's keep it up.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-9150869110376166582012-10-10T04:16:00.001-07:002012-10-10T04:16:54.219-07:00Non-unionize employees are safer?<div><p>I would like to know what screening methods unions use other than police checks. </p>
<p>His comment about losing control of who enters the property was kind of funny. strangers ride the subway every day. there are no security scans. anyone could bring whatever in. a simple piece of paper on the tracks could cause chaos. </p>
<p>The ttc even advertises the paper cup issue in the ttc cars.</p>
<p>I am sure if there are special procedures for scanning then it could be listed in their contract and if not done ttc could sue them and get out of the contract. </p>
<p>I look forward to comments.</p>
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-88482560386127042222012-10-01T07:18:00.000-07:002012-10-01T07:18:06.627-07:00Kill the escarpment highway? If so, what are the alternativesThere is a campaign to kill the escarpment highway. The conduit to get people from outlying areas to work. <br />
Part of the highway project is to get people from the Niagara Region into places like Kitchener/Waterloo and Guelph which currently you must rely heavily on Highway 6. For those who have taken that commute, its really slow. Lots of wasted fuel which is also bad for the environment.<br />
<br />
Yes cancelling the highway helps the environment but what is the alternative? One alternative is building an efficient transit system between Waterloo, Guelph and the Niagara Region. It took 10 years to get the trains running on weekends only during the summer between Toronto and Niagara Falls. How many decades to get the trains to Waterloo or Guelph.<br />
<br />
Check out the video and blog post on Rick Goldring's Blog for details.<br />
<a href="http://www.burlingtonmayor.com/?p=658">http://www.burlingtonmayor.com/?p=658</a><br />
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Please comment on his blog and let him know about your concerns on the alternatives to a mega-highway.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-14621707678584702672012-07-23T11:08:00.002-07:002012-07-23T11:09:45.016-07:00Excessive heat, Go Transit should harness it for renewable energy to power trains<div>"Excessive heat to make for a slower ride home" Go Transit says. </div><div><br /></div><div>With all this excessive heat they should apply some of this alloy and power the trains. With the cost savings maybe they could buy newer trains and switches for winter :)</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.popsci.com/technology/article/2011-06/new-alloy-can-convert-heat-directly-electricity">New alloy can convert heat directly to electricity</a></div><div><br /></div><div>Look forward to comments.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-66743071262542993922012-07-20T07:03:00.003-07:002012-07-20T07:06:24.096-07:00Milton Go Train Beats The Go BusWhy even have the 3:25 PM Milton Bus anymore given that there is a 4:00 PM train.<div>The 4:00 PM Train beats the bus because the traffic is bad. With traffic headaches slowing the bus down it makes no sense to run it.<br /><div><br /></div><div>As an optimization this bus could be used on another route in need. </div><div><br /></div><div>I look forward to comments.</div></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-18043038570783000282012-07-16T12:43:00.002-07:002012-07-16T12:49:37.072-07:00Clarity is everything. What lines have the speed restrictions? Where are the delays?<div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Here is what Go Transit says:</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Temperatures are expected to climb above the 30 degrees celsius mark today and on Tuesday July 17 as well. With high temperatures come speed restrictions that will be in place at certain areas along your rail corridor, which may result in a longer commute than usual. We appreciate your patience and will make every effort to ensure you have a comfortable ride home.</span><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Here is my interpretation:</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">We know the temperatures are going up so here is an excuse just in case we have to delay you so we don't have to pay.</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">Reasoning:</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">1) On the Lakeshore line, each time we had this I have experienced no delays due to speed restriction. Only delays for signal that have lasted at most 5 minutes.</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">2) Some lines have had speed restrictions and generally its the older track that is in need of maintenance such as the Milton Line. Since these lines are known to have speed restrictions why not spell it out. Why use a blanket statement. Simply do the research and let people know which lines are affected or have potential to be affected.</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">3) If it is true that it could be an issue on any lines then having trains go at normal speed through all these lines is a safety issue. If trains are going at 100 km/h all the time and its only at inspection that you enforce the speed restriction then you are risking those lives during the time you have not inspected the track. How often do you inspect the miles and miles of rail? If you are inspecting the track then you would know the locations that may be affected. Presenting a clearer message.</span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); "><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: rgb(63, 63, 63); font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); ">I look forward to hearing back from Go Transit possibly through a comment on this blog.</span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Chris Williamshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14325447692189400350noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-5707776653860008982012-05-01T11:16:00.001-07:002012-05-04T06:34:58.271-07:00Move over 10 ride ... here comes PrestoFor those still using those ancient 2 ride and 10 ride tickets you will soon have to move over to PRESTO.<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Starting June 1, we will no longer sell 2-ride and 10-ride tickets, but we will continue to accept them as valid fare on GO trains and GO buses until July 31. Transfer your balance to a flexible re-loadable PRESTO fare card at GO stations. Learn more at gotransit.com/presto. </blockquote>This is a welcome move. I have been using presto for a couple years now and the service is great. The machines work well on the GO lines, there are lots of them at Union Station. Even customer service is very responsive.<br />
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With all the chaos at Union with the construction, I would also like to note that adding the extra Presto devices in the middle area has made a huge difference.<br />
<br />
I only have two complaints so far with Presto:<br />
<br />
1) We need more stations to support the devices. <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">Did you know that PRESTO lets you travel the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area with one fare card? </blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq">PRESTO is transferable to most local transit companies in the GTHA, <b>including select TTC stations</b>. When you use your card to transfer from GO to a participating local transit you'll also get a discount on your fare. </blockquote><br />
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2) We need some of the self service booths like we have at Union Station at some of the other stations like Yonge/Bloor. Cards are supported here but if you forgot to fill up you are stuck paying a cash fare.<br />
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If you have an comments about Presto I look forward to hearing it.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-52067307861835736882012-04-11T06:42:00.000-07:002012-04-11T06:42:00.768-07:00Safety Issue at Port Credit: Fences need to be added/repaired at Port CreditIt always takes an accident to show issues that really should be caught ahead of time. Case in point, students cross the tracks near Port Credit Station all the time, so why is there not a high fence to stop them. There is an underpass they could be using instead.<br />
<br />
In fact, over the course of the Lakeshore line there needs to be an inspection done of places where fences are in need of repair or where fences need to be added. On the train ride in, just looking out my window I could spot large openings in the fences near the tracks. This is a big safety issue for kids walking home from school.<br />
<br />
I look forward to hearing more on what CN, Go Transit and VIA are planning to do to resolve this safety issue through this busy corridor.<br />
<br />
On a related note, I would like to say thank you to Mississauga Transit for their assistance during this incident. They quickly converted Clarkson Station buses to shuttles and got everyone home.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-8480050449111251932012-03-09T11:19:00.001-08:002012-03-09T11:20:31.118-08:00Get Lucky with Go TransitGo Transit has a new contest for St Patty's day. All you need to do is tell them how you were lucky<br />
on the Go Train. Be sure to enter as you deserve 10 free rides.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.gotransit.com/goluck">Good Luck</a><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-25817374101853662742012-03-06T06:51:00.000-08:002012-03-06T06:51:05.562-08:00New TTC Trains less AccessibleLast night I witnessed it first hand at the Dundas Station. Someone wheeled on their motorized chair at an earlier station but when we reached Dundas Station the gap between the train and the platform was over 2 inches wide. Normally the gap is under an inch so its possible to back the chair out on the older trains. I thought maybe it was just the Dundas station but as I watched the train head to Union I noticed the gap was wide most of the way down. If the TTC is going to order more of these trains then they need to think of a mechanism to close the gap when the train stop. One possibility is accessible cars like they have on the Go Train and then drop something out of the door over the gap so they can get off.<br />
<br />
In our case we had 4 passengers assist on getting the chair off while two others held the person. The conductor was confused he didn't know what to do.<br />
<br />
I look forward to hearing someone from TTC comment on what will be done on these new trains to assist in this matter. The old trains seem to be find, you can back out the motorized chair and its fine.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-85346709480261775142012-02-27T05:52:00.001-08:002012-03-01T09:09:44.505-08:00Safety at the King Road Yard.Condolences to the 3 engineers that were killed in the crash. Train derailments do happen due to weather, extreme heat or cold can be a factor, but when an accident occurs in nice weather on almost the anniversary of another derailment 4 years before, it has to be more than coincidence. Is there a faulty switch? Does the track need repair? Are the trains moving through the yard too fast? I thought there was a speed limit through freight yards. I know at Mimico there are signs about speed limits.<br />
<br />
(Update: The train was speeding when the incident occurred, but was the freight train speeding 4 years ago when it derailed at the same spot? <a href="http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/derailed-via-train-was-travelling-four-times-authorized-speed-limit/article2355102/">http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/derailed-via-train-was-travelling-four-times-authorized-speed-limit/article2355102/</a>)<br />
<br />
These are all questions I would like to see answers on. I take the Go Train and TTC and would like to know that the sections of track are safe. If they are not then we need to be resolving those safety issues before expanding service elsewhere. You may say CN owns the tracks but Go Trains and Via trains use them and should push for them to be a safe place to travel.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-91997154079878773082012-02-17T05:58:00.000-08:002012-02-17T05:58:08.190-08:00Where does the parking ticket money go?Today in the paper it stated the amount raised on Parking Fines. Correct me if I am wrong but this money goes to the cities I assume and probably not for Transit Funding. Are not Go Transit lots private property owned by Go Transit, a government funded private company. <br />
<br />
If the parking fines are going to Go Transit, then it would make sense why the priority is on more go lines and not additional parking. Almost $60,000 is a good amount of money extra to just throw away. On the other hand, parking lots do take time to build so they could be planning them. But wait, there are Malls close by with lots of parking. Why not have people park there and shuttle bus over. Wow what a concept. Even better why not run Go Transit buses between stops where there is ample parking to other where there is not. People can drive to that other stop or a carpool place in between and get shuttled over. <br />
<br />
There are alternatives that make economic sense to the consumer. If you get a $25 ticket for parking illegally that would make it cheaper to drive. We are supposed to be promoting transit use not deterring it. Some of the stations mentioned like Richmond Hill are station where you want people not to drive. Imagine the amount of traffic into downtown that is currently diverted by the Richmond Hill line. What if everyone said not sure if I will find parking and drive. Its crazy. <br />
<br />
Metrolynx you have done good things with Presto, making the trains run better now its time to step up to the plate and help passengers get to the trains.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-64363543831743429452011-07-08T08:39:00.000-07:002011-07-08T08:39:53.886-07:00Heated clash breaks out on TTC streetcar between passengers and driverInstead of dealing with the issue with the TTC driver, we are punishing the customer.<br />
TTC drivers get away with a lot of things and when people complain they get booted off the street car or<br />
drivers get rude and nasty escalating the situations. If they were simply polite like Go Transit Staff then<br />
a lot of these heated situations can be resolved before they escalate.<br />
<br />
Really, Go Transit should consult TTC on customer service and customer relations or more of this will happen.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1021534--heated-clash-breaks-out-on-ttc-streetcar-between-passengers-and-driver?bn=1">http://www.thestar.com/news/article/1021534--heated-clash-breaks-out-on-ttc-streetcar-between-passengers-and-driver?bn=1</a><br />
<br />
I look forward to comments on this situation or other incidents you had with ttc.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-53585841950842671192011-01-28T05:44:00.000-08:002011-01-28T05:44:09.922-08:00Want to break the law and get away with it? Work for the TTC.Safety First, this is how Go Transit thinks now, it was not always that way<br />
but they worked on it. One thing you didn't hear from Go Transit was that<br />
a bus or train driver broke a law and that they would deal with it internally.<br />
<br />
That is exactly what is happening on the TTC. The latest is a texting bus<br />
driver. Kinear said if any laws were broken there are internal processes to<br />
deal with the issues and that they will stand behind their employees.<br />
<br />
I remember similar comments with the sleeping attendant at the station. Now<br />
its a safety concern especially in light of the recent increase in pedestrian<br />
fatalities related to bus accidents.<br />
<br />
I find it shocking that the average driver in Ontario faces a $500 fine<br />
for texting because its dangerous but bus drivers responsible for the safety of<br />
hundreds of people during the course of a day gets let off with an internal<br />
investigation that we never hear about<br />
<br />
A citizen of Ontario regardless of whether they are Union or not should be the<br />
same under the law. You would think the TTC were a military base by the<br />
seperate tribunal but a quick look and you realize the military is actually<br />
organized, and concerned about your safety. <br />
<br />
Safety first, and all equal under the law. Two things we need Mayor Ford to<br />
look at.<br />
<div><br />
</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-42706978518357116382011-01-20T05:53:00.000-08:002011-01-20T05:53:20.257-08:00Support Presto On The TTC.It seems Go Transit and many other transit systems are smart and doing presto to make riding easier across<br />
systems. The TTC however is not going to be adding Presto to any more stations beyond the pilot and will<br />
likely stick you with a credit card payment system in its place. Show the TTC you prefer Presto over Credit Card at the turnstyle and <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Support-Presto-On-The-TTC/170676816296750">Support Presto On The TTC</a><br />
<br />
Please pass this on to all your friends as the more of us join the more TTC will take notice and change their decision. It could mean less fare increases since they would not be wasting millions researching what Presto has already done.<div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-5074347092734363882010-12-02T18:38:00.000-08:002010-12-02T18:40:08.311-08:00Letter to Mayor Ford on Presto and TTC<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">I sent the following on to Mayor Ford. I look forward to his response. If you use Presto and feel TTC should get their act together</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">and continue the roll out please comment here or go to the TTC website and let them know.</span></span></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></span></div>If you look at Union Station you will see that loads of riders are using the new Presto cards to the point of stressing the system.</span></span></span><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">This wide popularity should tell the ttc that this pilot is working and they should expand it.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">Instead the head of the Union run TTC wants to invest millions on their own system that will not connect to anyone else.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">I think the TTC should get no more money until they stop wasting money. They should roll out Presto, allow people to fill</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">their presto cards at stations and extend the number of stations.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">Go Transit and other local transit like Burlington Transit has already started rolling this out. I would like the transportation</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">mayor to tell TTC to get out of the dinosaur age and join the modern age where transportation works together.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">Car when needed bus or train when needed but all working together. This is the goal behind presto.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">I look forward to your response.</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><br /></span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; ">Chris Williams</span></span></div><div style="text-indent: 0px !important; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="text-indent: 0px !important; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 11px; line-height: 15px; "><a href="http://go-transit.blogspot.com/" style="text-indent: 0px !important; ">http://go-transit.blogspot.com/</a></span></span></div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-18586577463899937792010-11-22T05:49:00.000-08:002010-11-22T05:54:29.314-08:0095% less than 20 minutes late makes sense nowFrom looking at the mornings delays and actually looking back at past delays in my email, I noticed a trend. Delays tend to happen a lot but most delays are 10 to 15 minutes with some delays logged as 17 or 19 minutes which are under 20. Thus the selection of 20 minutes is a simple case of changing the math.<div><br /></div><div>I would like to see the actual numbers on 15 minutes rather than 20 minutes or since you are so proud of the 20 minutes, what about changing the free ride from 30 minutes to 20 minutes. Since its less than 20 minutes late 95 to 98% of the time then this would make sense from a customer service point of view and customer satisfaction. Let's see Go Transit put their money where their mouth is.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-5844679713805171262010-11-09T05:51:00.000-08:002010-11-09T05:58:46.959-08:00Passenger Charter and Customer Service AmbassadorsI read through the printed copy of the Passenger Charter on the way home last evening and found it interesting how little information there were on Customer Service Ambassadors. It is interesting because in my opinion they are the ones who made the biggest difference. <div><br /></div><div>The survey mentioned people feel safe and informed well at stations this has not changed much. Signs are not better or clearer, announcements at stations are still unclear due to old equipment, but the customer service ambassadors on the trains keep us informed of every delay or stop, they respond to emergency assist alarms. They help with directions, guide us on faster trains to take. Talk to us and make us feel comfortable.</div><div><br /></div><div>When you see a Customer Service Ambassador today, be sure to thank them for the great job they have been doing. We really appreciate what they do every day.</div><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38503653.post-24201978993474605132010-11-08T10:26:00.000-08:002010-11-08T10:39:34.762-08:00Go Transit Passenger Charter<pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><blockquote></blockquote>I just received an email about the new Passenger Charter. This is exciting as now we have a concrete document that states Go Transits commitment to us. We have felt the change in attitude at Go Transit over the past few years both from the friendliness and helpfulness of staff members and the free rides for delays over 45 minutes.</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Their charter outlines 5 promises to the commuter:</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">- to be on time</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">- to keep you informed</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">- to provide you with a safe travel experience</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">- to ensure your travel with us is always comfortable and to always be available to help. </pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">Here is the link to the actual charter. Check it out and let's keep them to it together.</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><a href="http://www.gotransit.com/passengercharter/en/passenger_charter.aspx" target="_blank" style="line-height: 17px; font-weight: inherit; text-decoration: underline; color: rgb(0, 104, 207); cursor: pointer; ">http://www.gotransit.com/passengercharter/en/passenger_charter.aspx</a><br /></pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; ">One thing that looked inaccurate or unclear.</pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 14px; font-size: 12px; border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; "><blockquote>- We will run more than 90% of rush hour trains within five minutes of the scheduled time. </blockquote></span></pre><pre style="line-height: 17px; white-space: normal; color: rgb(42, 42, 42); font-family: Tahoma, Verdana, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 14px; font-size: 12px; border-collapse: collapse; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px; ">The stat shows 95% but from experience on the lakeshore line over the past 10 months, most trains closer to 9:00 arrival have been 10 to 15 minutes late. I am interested on how they came up with this number and how this is audited. </span></pre><pre style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;">The Second thing I noticed was that safety is not measured on how safe the trains, stations are but on how safe customers feel.</span></span></pre><pre style="white-space: normal; "><span class="Apple-style-span" ><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 12px; line-height: 14px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 2px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 2px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 21px; -webkit-border-horizontal-spacing: 0px; -webkit-border-vertical-spacing: 0px; "><p style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; "></p><blockquote>Every three months, we conduct a customer satisfaction survey to better understand what we are doing right and what we need to improve on. This is the cumulative results for this year for customer satisfaction when it comes to safety.</blockquote><blockquote><br /></blockquote>What would matter more to me would be seeing the results of safety inspections, how often brakes fail, trains break down on tracks, in winter I would like to see random inspections of station platforms for ice buildup, how many people have slipped on stairways, hurt themselves on the platform. This would be more meaningful then a survey where some people responded to questions and others never reached the survey. <p></p><p style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; ">Just curious, out of the ridership totals how many actually answered the surveys.</p><p style="font-family: Arial, Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 10px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; ">I look forward to comments from Go Transit.</p></span></span></span></pre><div class="blogger-post-footer">Comments posted here are in the raw form posted by individuals concerned about Go Transit Safety. We are in no way responsible for their accuracy. However I will keep an eye out for explicit comments.</div>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com3