[jimj_wpg]

I really hope that the majority of the populace does not share the opinions of those on the wfp commenters page.

The commentators on the WFP website come from common sense Winnipeggers.

[h0twired]

[/B]Such as...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RhYXNwvcl6A&feature=related
:D

Japanese people are even crazier. They go nuts on the first and last runs of trains.

43ETuqmY5jU

[h0twired]

The commentators on the WFP website come from common sense Winnipeggers.

Considering that the more prolific WFP posters seem to be unemployed shmoes with nothing better to do with their time but complain about nearly everything...

I would hardly consider them an appropriate or accurate sampling of the Winnipeg population.

[dpenner]

'dpenner' and 'hotwired' added to my ignorelist.

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/18063611.jpg

[jimj_wpg]

Considering that the more prolific WFP posters seem to be unemployed shmoes with nothing better to do with their time but complain about nearly everything...

I would hardly consider them an appropriate or accurate sampling of the Winnipeg population.

Do you work for WT or NF?

Who knows, you could be a PAID shill from one of those orgs.

[pollswpg]

Do you work for WT or NF?

Who knows, you could be a PAID shill from one of those orgs.

What? Is that the common sense you were talking about?

If I knew how to put you on my ignore list I would.

[pollswpg]

Considering that the more prolific WFP posters seem to be unemployed shmoes with nothing better to do with their time but complain about nearly everything...

I would hardly consider them an appropriate or accurate sampling of the Winnipeg population.

Agreed 100%.

[armorand93]

would love to see armoralls bus videos with original sounds :D probably quite similar

hahahaha jk

Just me screaming "HOLY CRAP, ITS A D40! PRAISE NEW FLYER!!!" :jester:

[1ajs]

just upload em as is to youtube it will do the work for yea

[jimj_wpg]

That UFO that some people have videoed at night is more interesting than this retarded BRT...

[pollswpg]

That UFO that some people have videoed at night is more interesting than this retarded BRT...

I was really hoping this whole time that Katz would pull a rabbit out of his hat and we'd have the money for LRT...but it just didn't happen. LRT is better than BRT in a lot of ways...Winnipeg just doesn't have the money.

As far as a BRT system goes though, I think our's looks pretty cool. And it seems like it fulfills it's purpose...which isn't looking cool or being trendy. it's getting people, who use transit, where they're going -- faster.

I'm hoping it'll serve as a catalyst for more political will now that Winnipeggers have a taste of it...which will generally mean more money/more possibility for LRT.

So regardless of what you've been saying...this is good for Winnipeg

[jimj_wpg]

http://cdn.memegenerator.net/instances/400x/18063611.jpg

http://zipmeme.com/uploads/generated/g1333681690314986344.jpg

[rrskylar]

I was really hoping this whole time that Katz would pull a rabbit out of his hat and we'd have the money for LRT...but it just didn't happen. LRT is better than BRT in a lot of ways...Winnipeg just doesn't have the money.

As far as a BRT system goes though, I think our's looks pretty cool. And it seems like it fulfills it's purpose...which isn't looking cool or being trendy. it's getting people, who use transit, where they're going -- faster.

I'm hoping it'll serve as a catalyst for more political will now that Winnipeggers have a taste of it...which will generally mean more money/more possibility for LRT.

So regardless of what you've been saying...this is good for Winnipeg

Have to agree with you here, but the biggest obstacle any type of rapid transit is still Sammy "waterpark" Katz, until the ass clown is no longer our mayor don't look for any progressive things out of city hall.

[Cam]

Have to agree with you here, but the biggest obstacle any type of rapid transit is still Sammy "waterpark" Katz, until the clown ass is no longer or mayor don't look for any progressive things out of city hall.

Don't worry, this is his last term (so he says).

[rypinion]

http://zipmeme.com/uploads/generated/g1333681690314986344.jpg

I thought you ignored him? How are you quoting him? :rolleyes:

[vid]

http://zipmeme.com/uploads/generated/g1333681690314986344.jpg

For all the non-Winnipegers reading this, Jimj's post is self-referential.

[Tower Crane]

BRT will be one of those things that everyone will look back on in Twenty Five and say "WTF" were they thinking and didn't anyone have a will or desire to start building LRT.
And the folks that keep saying we don't have the money need to start looking for ways and reasons to make it happen instead of excuses.

[jmt18325]

Or, we could use money that we can probably get, and build out an entire BRT network for not much more than the price of one LRT line, something that will prove far more beneficial.

[pollswpg]

BRT will be one of those things that everyone will look back on in Twenty Five and say "WTF" were they thinking and didn't anyone have a will or desire to start building LRT.
And the folks that keep saying we don't have the money need to start looking for ways and reasons to make it happen instead of excuses.

I think we let one of our most viable options sail away for potentially getting LRT. I know a lot of people won't agree with me, but I think the 20 cent fare hike would have been good. I split my transportation 3 ways between driving, biking and transit. I'm on a somewhat fixed income. The 20 cent fare hike really wouldn't have set me back much.

Now I don't know all the facts about this gas tax, but I'm not overly thrilled about what I've heard. I already spend an arm and a leg in gas money and require a vehicle for work. From the sounds of things I'll be spending way more from the gas tax than I would have from the fare hike. Is there even a happy medium we could find? Like 10 cents?

[alittle1]

Was that you in an Norwood leather jacket with a camera? Just wondering

Nope, wasn't me as I am still in Amsterdam checking out the rail transport here. Isn't it ironic that a city built with so many cqnals and bodies of water has such a fantastic transit system that runs on overhead electric and Winnipeg decides that diesel buses are the way to go.

Sammy can't pull a rabbit out of his hat because he lacks that skill, but if it came to gribbles, he could definitely do that. The reason Sammy won't run is because he hasn't got a plank to stand on and everyone knows that all the rats leave a sinking ship.

Anyone in here want to throw their name in the hat?

[Lenin]

Well, I decided to go out and try out this new "rapid" transit all the kids are talking about these days. And by "kids," I mean "20 to 30 - somethings like me who are fuckin' geeks." I boarded a # 170 U of M @ the new downtown Balmoral / AnX station. I then road to the end of the "rapid" section, got off @ Jubilee, and subsequently took the # 160 back to Osborne Station and left said station on foot. Here are my thoughts....

I like what they have done with the Balmoral / AnX station, but I think it's pretty close to Graham Avenue Mall and the numerous buses that already stop there. It seemed odd that seconds after leaving the Balmoral Station we turned onto Graham and stopped along that stretch roughly 4783 times. There's nothing rapid about this downtown stretch, which I had anticipated going in, but I thought perhaps it would be a little faster than before given all the bus priority signage. I was wrong. With Graham Avenue being fairly underdeveloped, I would really dig seeing something more along the lines of this in the future: route ALL the Graham Avenue Mall buses to the Balmoral station. Take out all the lights on Graham toss in stop signs at all the intersections. Private traffic could still cross, but buses would have priority. Then the buses utilizing the rapid transit stretch could blast through most of downtown (see: RAPID), with perhaps one more major station around Graham and Main. Thinking long term, Union Station is the obvious great choice as the metro's major transit hub. Crossing Main would probably require a tunnel or something, so until it's a viable option to use Union Station, another station at the eastern terminus of Graham might be nice for commuters to have two locations to board downtown. This way the "rapid" portion of the routes could be extended by a kilometer or two. Except for the necessity of crossing Portage Avenue, this would essentially mean faster, more consistent service for the entirety of the route(s), not just the new 3.7 km section. Two main downtown stations is all we need, I suspect, and Graham Avenue Mall feels a little bit redundant now.

The above might sound ignorant or naive, and to be honest I only pondered this today as I took my first ride. I also understand my proposed 'bus only, no stops' solution for Graham would create some parking issues, but these can perhaps be addressed utilizing some of the underdeveloped stretches of Graham Avenue.

As for the actual "rapid" section of the route, I thought it was delightful. I will probably never use it, but I think it's great for the city to have. The length is so short that if you blink you'll miss it, but maybe that's the point. It's a start.

I was pleasantly surprised to find that the 80 km/h stretch actually extends to Jubilee. I had expected the normal route to commence again after the Fort Rouge Station. The actual stop @ Jubilee is, however, anticlimactic and kinda counter intuitive. It felt kinda like the director decided to stop shooting three seconds before the money shot.

I realize funds are tight and that this stop is currently the last leg of the rapid transit segment, but if we are to extend this line in the future, it would be sorta nice to have a real station at Jubilee as well; something that's enclosed, and actually connected to the surrounding streets so pedestrians can easily access it. It seems like it would be difficult for some locals to access this stop, even though it's so close to major streets. Much harder to access than the other stations. We're talking hard, as in harder than a priest at a playground here. You get off in the middle of nowhere, and there's no crosswalk or signage to cross to the other side. The street merges with another around a bend in the road, so on a busy day it may not be the safest place to cross the street for pedestrians. This seemed ill conceived to me, at such a new stop. Blind spots all around, very little signage, exposed little bus shacks far removed from each other, and poor pedestrian access to the surrounding area.

Again, nothing I write here is really informed. I'm naive, and clearly not a transit planner. I'm just a skyscraper geek, so please take my ill informed first impressions with a large grain of salt. As in, a fucking salt lick.

On one final positive note, I got off @ Osborne Station, and was impressed. It turned out to be everything I had hoped for. Very sophisticated and urban feeling; very "big city." Also, it was pretty damn busy, which was nice. I know it's the first official day running, but it's also Easter Sunday, and I was the only one who looked like he was riding for fun. It seems to be a well thought out, sufficiently linked and used terminal. Good access, very good signage, and a safe and secure atmosphere. I dug it.

Anyways, there's my lengthy rant regarding my first impression. Overall I liked the experience very much. It's a bit feeble now 'cause it's so short, but, like I tell my lady friends, it'll grow just fine. I am excited to secure funds for the future lengths, so this segment will feel more relevant and cohesive. I think it's a pretty good start to what will hopefully soon become a more comprehensive system.

Oh, here's a neat lil' view I captured after hiking up a little dirt hill at the Jubilee terminus:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7131/7058156585_6940eefaa2_c.jpg


P.S. - the tunnel is pretty cool too. I'm secretly happy we had to finance its construction, because it feels nifty and urban.

[rypinion]

route ALL the Graham Avenue Mall buses to the Balmoral station. Take out all the lights on Graham toss in stop signs at all the intersections. Private traffic could still cross, but buses would have priority.

Pretty sure that'd be a disaster during rush hour (unless I'm misunderstanding what you are suggesting).

The actual stop @ Jubilee is, however, anticlimactic and kinda counter intuitive. It felt kinda like the director decided to stop shooting three seconds before the money shot.

If I remember correctly, the Jubilee station is to be completed as part of (and possibly even paid by) the developers who do the Fort Rouge Yards residential development.

[Chadillaccc]

So are they building/did they build the Southwest Corridor to be easily converted into rail eventually? It makes me sad that they reneged on the commitment to rail and went for this. But hey, at least it's progress :)

[armorand93]

Pretty sure that'd be a disaster during rush hour [b](unless I'm misunderstanding what you are suggesting).[\b]



If I remember correctly, the Jubilee station is to be completed as part of (and possibly even paid by) the developers who do the Fort Rouge Yards residential development.

Stop signs on the side streets, so that the buses have free range on Graham, while lines of cars start spilling out onto Portage...

Can't we just turn some streets into cul-de-sacs, but leave lanes for buses only? That or someone build a traffic tunnel between the Midtown bridge and Notre Dame...

[jimj_wpg]

XtVNlp802MQ

CJOB video of the FIRST day of "rapid" transit in Winnipeg...

At 30 seconds in, look at alll the passengers, packed onto that bus...Wow, "rapid" transit....Something that everyone wants...to ride a bus.... The bus is mostly empty...

Get real people.

LOL!

[rypinion]

CJOB video of the FIRST day of "rapid" transit in Winnipeg...

At 30 seconds in, look at alll the passengers, packed onto that bus...Wow, "rapid" transit....Something that everyone wants...to ride a bus.... The bus is mostly empty...

Get real people.

LOL!

I'm pretty sure we've all got the idea by now that you aren't a fan.

[jimj_wpg]

...

Next lifetime I'm choosing to be born in a BIG city like New York or Chicago.

They have lots and lots and lots of trains of every type...Some above ground some below. Going to the airport, to parks, CBDs.

Commuter, rail-based rapid transit, etc...

[dpenner]

why not do it in this lifetime? you can satisfy your rail fetish that way

[Wigglez]

Ive taken the 160 a couple times now, gotta say the stations look REALLY nice.

There are about as many people on the 160 as there were on the 60 so it appears to be useful to people!

They gotta keep this thing going..

Quick question, whats the status of that fort rouge condo/townhouse project? Passing that massive site a few times.. it would be awesome to have something there other than dirt and debris.

[cheswick]

Ive taken the 160 a couple times now, gotta say the stations look REALLY nice.

There are about as many people on the 160 as there were on the 60 so it appears to be useful to people!

They gotta keep this thing going..

Quick question, whats the status of that fort rouge condo/townhouse project? Passing that massive site a few times.. it would be awesome to have something there other than dirt and debris.

http://fortrougeyards.com/

Personally I have zero confidence in seeing anything there in the near future. B&M land is currently the one behind the project and they have done nothing to instill any confidence. They're still building a condo project on McPhillips that has been delay after delay. They have numerous lawsuits filed agaisnt them and have cash flow problems still. There has been a half finished structure of a building sitting there for 4 years on McPhillips. The wood frame is all weathered now and its a major eyesore. They started building again about a year ago but that building remains half finished still.

[Wigglez]

http://fortrougeyards.com/

Personally I have zero confidence in seeing anything there in the near future. B&M land is currently the one behind the project and they have done nothing to instill any confidence. They're still building a condo project on McPhillips that has been delay after delay. They have numerous lawsuits filed agaisnt them and have cash flow problems still. There has been a half finished structure of a building sitting there for 4 years on McPhillips. The wood frame is all weathered now and its a major eyesore. They started building again about a year ago but that building remains half finished still.


I've been passing that site on McPhillips for 2 years now when I drive to my girlfriends... I've often wondered what the hell was wrong with that site... It was comical when they put half the windows in that weathered half finished building. I was trying to figure out why they didn't just tear the damn thing down.

That makes me sad, that site would be good for something, as of right now its just an ugly mess beside our snazzy new rapid transit line.

[armorand93]

I'm pretty sure we've all got the idea by now that you aren't a fan.

http://media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m24la4jTLj1qbsbvb.jpg

:P

[Lenin]

I agree with dpenner.

We are fortunate to live in a nation that, while geographically massive, is still liberal and prosperous enough to allow ease of transportation. If you don't dig the burg you're in, it's not that difficult to move. Chicago and New York might present visa issues, but you could still find employment / education in Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver to satiate your rail fetish.

I'm a Calgarian who has also lived in Vancouver and Europe. I also moved to Manitoba upon *my own free will* because I think it's fucking awesome out here. I probably wouldn't return to any other city I've lived in any time soon; certainly not just for the transit options.

I'm quite fascinated with mass transit, and I had hoped for an LRT line here in Winnipeg. However, as I stated above, I do think this is a pretty good, albeit tiny, start. I'm getting a tad weary of hearing folks from my adopted home bitch and whine continually about how we lack some services larger centres have. Find a metro area of 800,000 people in the U.S. that 'feels' as urban or cultured as Winnipeg, or has better mass transit options, and I'll buy you a beer.

I'm not saying everything here is perfect. I have my moments of frustration sometimes too. But If I loathed my options, lifestyle, or surroundings as much as some folks seem to, I'd probably get off my ass and move again.

It's really quite simple.

[chrisallard5454]

Well said Lenin, well said.:cheers:

[h0twired]

...

Next lifetime I'm choosing to be born in a BIG city like New York or Chicago.

They have lots and lots and lots of trains of every type...Some above ground some below. Going to the airport, to parks, CBDs.

Commuter, rail-based rapid transit, etc...

Why don't you just move out of your parents basement and go to Toronto or Calgary?

Then you can buy a tiny house on the outskirts, not be able to afford parking downtown and be forced to take the train everyday... after first taking a bus to the station.

[headhorse]

I agree with dpenner.

We are fortunate to live in a nation that, while geographically massive, is still liberal and prosperous enough to allow ease of transportation. If you don't dig the burg you're in, it's not that difficult to move. Chicago and New York might present visa issues, but you could still find employment / education in Toronto, Montreal, or Vancouver to satiate your rail fetish.

I'm a Calgarian who has also lived in Vancouver and Europe. I also moved to Manitoba upon *my own free will* because I think it's fucking awesome out here. I probably wouldn't return to any other city I've lived in any time soon; certainly not just for the transit options.

I'm quite fascinated with mass transit, and I had hoped for an LRT line here in Winnipeg. However, as I stated above, I do think this is a pretty good, albeit tiny, start. I'm getting a tad weary of hearing folks from my adopted home bitch and whine continually about how we lack some services larger centres have. Find a metro area of 800,000 people in the U.S. that 'feels' as urban or cultured as Winnipeg, or has better mass transit options, and I'll buy you a beer.

I'm not saying everything here is perfect. I have my moments of frustration sometimes too. But If I loathed my options, lifestyle, or surroundings as much as some folks seem to, I'd probably get off my ass and move again.

It's really quite simple.

yeah, as another person who chose to live in Winnipeg (after living in Edmonton and Victoria), the often illogical "hate" of Winnipeg is the thing that frustrates and baffles me the most. love your city people! and if there's something you don't love, try to fix it.

[dpenner]

there is something infectious about the city, i brought my old gf to winnipeg a bunch of times and she loved everything about it, to the point where after we split she still applied for several internships and positions in the city specifically instead of places around her hometown :haha: this from a GTA born and raised girl

anyways enough of my personal history:roll eyes:

my current hometown Ottawa is constructing a massive new LRT development, it will be approx 13 km long with 13 stations, most importantly cutting right through downtown ottawa on rideau street (ottawa equivalent of portage) all it took was 600 million from the feds and another 600 million from the province of ontario
and 900 million from the city......

http://www.ottawalightrail.ca/en/

that being said to my knowledge of the city it looks like a pretty sweet system, although that is a hell of a cost to pay 2.1 billion wow.....o wait Bipole 3 is going to cost about 4 billion...................

:shrug:

[jimj_wpg]

The reason Sammy won't run is because he hasn't got a plank to stand on and everyone knows that all the rats leave a sinking ship.

Do you always vote for the New Diaper Party like your Mommie does?

Anyone in here want to throw their name in the hat?Kaj Hasselriis...that funny looking "man".

[rypinion]

Do you always vote for the New Diaper Party like your Mommie does?

What? Do you even pay attention to the discussion around here?

[rypinion]

http://www.ottawalightrail.ca/en/

Judging from the map it looks like it will compliment the existing BRT very nicely. The BRT goes north/south (and is awesome based on my handful of visits to Ottawa), LRT goes east/west.

[h0twired]

Since he is ignoring me... he shouldn't see this.

Here is our own jimj_wpg addressing City Hall regarding BRT back in 2004.

QMloxGVL8F4

[Mininari]

my current hometown Ottawa is constructing a massive new LRT development, it will be approx 13 km long with 13 stations, most importantly cutting right through downtown ottawa on rideau street (ottawa equivalent of portage) all it took was 600 million from the feds and another 600 million from the province of ontario
and 900 million from the city......
:shrug:

No kidding that Provincial and Federal funding help get things moving on rapid transit projects. In Greater Vancouver, The Canada Line ($1.9B,completed 2009)and the Evergreen Line (1.4B, u/c) were / are cost-shared by the federal, provincial gov'ts and the regional transit authority. The Canada line also had a P3 partner involved.

But seriously, if money can't be 'found' for LRT, then build a network of grade-separated busways. A bus moving station to station at speeds upward of 80km/hr is travel-time-wise no different than an LRT (less capacity), and busways can ALWAYS be upgraded to LRT...

Like your system in Ottawa is.

[armorand93]

Since he is ignoring me... he shouldn't see this.

Here is our own jimj_wpg addressing City Hall regarding BRT back in 2004.

QMloxGVL8F4

Oh yes, LRT and Feeders. What happens if a train gets stuck on the tracks and Winnipeg Transit rids itself of main routes? Not that were getting LRT anyway, although a Downtown or Airport Tram would be rather nice... and ALOT LESS EXPENSIVE. A people-moving LRT system downtown would free up the D30LFs for other areas (R79, R75) to provide late night service. Or throw in a Waverley West feeder. After extensively riding the SWRTC (first shuttle, first Sunday bus, up at 6 am yesterday morning on 162 to see how people react/ridership), I'm highly content with what we have, and as I said to CBC Radio during an interview on that bus, I hope that TOD comes with future stages and that either Phase 2 or the WRTC is next... (West RT Corridor, cause I'm in St James).

[DTFan22]

Since he is ignoring me... he shouldn't see this.

Here is our own jimj_wpg addressing City Hall regarding BRT back in 2004.

QMloxGVL8F4

Way to present yourself appropriately to council members....:koko:

I know it doesn't really matter here but I just have a hard time taking someone seriously when they don't seem to respect themselves enough to present themselves in an appropriate manner.

That aside,

While I would have liked Winnipeg to have first gone with LRT, I'm happy to see that we finally have a ball rolling on a rapid transit system, and hopefully the momentum doesn't stop soon!

[dpenner]

in fairness ottawa was fortunate in that the original south north LRT line was an already existing track, all they did was plop a new train on it and build 5 stations, it cost the city only 23 million, that being said i always thought it was the dumbest LRT in the world and literally nobody uses it except students at my school for the two most southern stops, it will compliment the new line to some degree but the existing BRT will really be awesome when combined with that new track

*will say it again, a well designed BRT, such as the one i use everyday instead of my car which now collects dust, is the best solution for a medium sized city, ottawa has a metro of 1.1 mil ppl and only now are the actually putting in LRT (old line doesn't count) and only doing so because they received 1.2 billion in government funds (well bc it is the capital :P ) to those firmly rooted LRT folks it does not make sense for a city of 700,000 who will probably never receive similar funding to even consider LRT at this point, lets get a better bus system that encourages non public transit riders to start using

[spiritedenergy]

...

Next lifetime I'm choosing to be born in a BIG city like New York or Chicago.

They have lots and lots and lots of trains of every type...Some above ground some below. Going to the airport, to parks, CBDs.

Commuter, rail-based rapid transit, etc...

living in crowded cities is exciting for young people... but after? Having to spend hours on commuting can get very tiring... Of course if you have a great job that pays enough to live close to where you work is a different story

[chrisallard5454]

living in crowded cities is exciting for young people... but after? Having to spend hours on commuting can get very tiring... Of course if you have a great job that pays enough to live close to where you work is a different story

I never understood how people could work downtown but would never live downtown. It must be because of a housing shortage, and public perception. I don't see how walking two blocks is an inconvenience to one. Especially when a car isn't needed. and when indoor bridges are available during the winter for those who want to use that as an excuse.

[WpG_GuY]

Took a ride on the BRT over the weekend, the Osborne station is really impressive.

[h0twired]

I never understood how people could work downtown but would never live downtown. It must be because of a housing shortage, and public perception. I don't see how walking two blocks is an inconvenience to one. Especially when a car isn't needed. and when indoor bridges are available during the winter for those who want to use that as an excuse.

I like growing a garden in my backyard.

The great thing about Winnipeg is that you can own a house quite easily within jogging distance of downtown.

[spiritedenergy]

I never understood how people could work downtown but would never live downtown. It must be because of a housing shortage, and public perception. I don't see how walking two blocks is an inconvenience to one. Especially when a car isn't needed. and when indoor bridges are available during the winter for those who want to use that as an excuse.

I personally hate the suburbs, i hate the idea that i would have to cut my lawn just because the laws require so, and I would hate to be forced to drive a car to go somewhere, but most people like them so... I can see why with someone with kids it would be the best option though

[North of 49]

I for one live in one of those "new suburbs". I long for the day when wifey and I can sell and move downtown near where I grew up. there are certain advantages in living in the burbs when it comes to raising up young children. I certainly miss walking to a neighborhood coffee shop for breakfast and just enjoying city life buzz by.

I regularly visit downtown once or twice a week when feasible. And certainly letting the kids walk around and grasp the feel of urban life will certainly help condition them. I think it's sad for parents to let there perceptions weather true or not alienate their offspring from the experience of city life.

We have it good here, and yes there is improvement to be had, but so does everywhere else.

I for one don't understand why developers are afraid to go big (30 plus stories, mix developmental) within the boring parking lots of downtown. Considering where this wave of immigration is coming from. (higher density countries). Why they just don't build them I don't get it. These new immigrants are buying $400000 homes for god's sake.

Plus they come from countries where public commute is a norm.

?????reassess your market>>>>"developers"

[spiritedenergy]

I for one live in one of those "new suburbs". I long for the day when wifey and I can sell and move downtown near where I grew up. there are certain advantages in living in the burbs when it comes to raising up young children. I certainly miss walking to a neighborhood coffee shop for breakfast and just enjoying city life buzz by.

I regularly visit downtown once or twice a week when feasible. And certainly letting the kids walk around and grasp the feel of urban life will certainly help condition them. I think it's sad for parents to let there perceptions weather true or not alienate their offspring from the experience of city life.

We have it good here, and yes there is improvement to be had, but so does everywhere else.

I for one don't understand why developers are afraid to go big (30 plus stories, mix developmental) within the boring parking lots of downtown. Considering where this wave of immigration is coming from. (higher density countries). Why they just don't build them I don't get it. These new immigrants are buying $400000 homes for god's sake.

Plus they come from countries where public commute is a norm.

?????reassess your market>>>>"developers"

most immigrants I know, especially asians, don't like the downtown. They come from very crowded, poor places so their ultimate aspiration is a house in the suburbs. That's their "american dream", can you blame them?

[dpenner]

North of 49 this is strictly out of curiosity and I'm don't want to sound like I'm criticizing your choice to live out there but why made you choose living in one of these "new suburbs" opposed to a neighbourhood like wolesly, st boniface, or around corydon/osborne? where you can have a bit of both urban life, and amenities of the suburbs

strictly out of curiosity

[Only The Lonely..]

:previous:

Don't answer, it's a trap!

[dpenner]

:previous: easy Admiral Ackbar

as i said its pure curiosity, a big part of my education is understanding behaviour, choices, and values of people, it interests me

[armorand93]

North of 49 this is strictly out of curiosity and I'm don't want to sound like I'm criticizing your choice to live out there but why made you choose living in one of these "new suburbs" opposed to a neighbourhood like wolesly, st boniface, or around corydon/osborne? where you can have a bit of both urban life, and amenities of the suburbs

strictly out of curiosity

Wolseley could use a few mid-rises

[headhorse]

Wolseley could use a few mid-rises

would love to see some nice 4-8 storey buildings along Portage

[North of 49]

North of 49 this is strictly out of curiosity and I'm don't want to sound like I'm criticizing your choice to live out there but why made you choose living in one of these "new suburbs" opposed to a neighbourhood like wolesly, st boniface, or around corydon/osborne? where you can have a bit of both urban life, and amenities of the suburbs

strictly out of curiosity

my old neighborhood block in the north end old garden city area had 2 families with kids. wanted more playmates for the kids.

[North of 49]

Wolseley could use a few mid-rises

I agree, but wouldn't that mean knocking over some homes in the area? I don't see too many infills that would allow 3 to 4 story mid-rises.

[North of 49]

:previous:

Don't answer, it's a trap!

Ok? same to you.

[dpenner]

really ?

[chrisallard5454]

I am no architect, but there are some radical designs out there that are calling for green space in high rise residential buildings. I don't see why Winnipeg couldn't build one of these. It would be amazing.

I also believe that with every downtown should be accompanied by neighborhoods for those who want alternatives. But there comes a point where these neighbourhoods become so spread out and developed with such low density that it is of no benefit to the city to create them. These types of developments are also where the majority of -excuse the expression- nimby's live. They wan't a small town lifestyle, with big city amenities. Well, that is where I get confused. If people want large lots and quiet streets, then they should move to a small town that could benefit from low density growth Winnipeg has enough to sustain itself, and any more is nothing but a drain to its survival as a city. Unless planned properly and appropriately, in which case I wouldn't mind, but the cookie cutter neighbourhoods of Waverly West tell me the city planners are far from the ideology that we need to become more dense.

[cheswick]

North of 49 this is strictly out of curiosity and I'm don't want to sound like I'm criticizing your choice to live out there but why made you choose living in one of these "new suburbs" opposed to a neighbourhood like wolesly, st boniface, or around corydon/osborne? where you can have a bit of both urban life, and amenities of the suburbs

strictly out of curiosity

Looking for a house right now and I can give you an answer that I'm sure is a reason many people choose it. Cost. You can get far more square footage (and a newer house less potential problems etc) by living in the suburbs vs living in a older neighbourhood closer to downtown. Personally i would love to live in river heights but I can't afford to bid on any houses listed in the area as they're being listed for 270 to 299 and selling for $350. You can build a new house in the suburbs for the same price and get 500 to 1000 more square feet. Cresentwood, st b, Osborne village are all the same. It's a trade off but you can get a bigger house and more space in the burbs. And it's not like Winnipeg is Toronto. The commute to work isnt gonna take you an hour and a half.

[chrisallard5454]

unfortunately if Winnipeg grew like it is now until it reached Toronto's size, it would be a hell of a lot worse commute wise. It would make Houston look dense.

[dpenner]

you and north of 49 both have logical explanations i can understand, i just don't like the fact that instead of invigorating older neighbourhoods we continue to create new ones pushing our boundaries further and further

regardless of the benefits people see with it, (especially families with young children) the model is not sustainable and i wish people would look more towards the future then present. There is physical and social aspects that continue to deteriorate as we expand.

that being said I'm a single young adult male, my preferences could drastically change with additions to my life, although i hope not

edit: lol hope my preferences don't change, I'm not critic of family life

[chrisallard5454]

you and north of 49 both have logical explanations i can understand, i just don't like the fact that instead of invigorating older neighbourhoods we continue to create new ones pushing our boundaries further and further

regardless of the benefits people see with it, (especially families with young children) the model is not sustainable and i wish people would look more towards the future then present. There is physical and social aspects that continue to deteriorate as we expand.

that being said I'm a single young adult male, my preferences could drastically change with additions to my life, although i hope not

See the interesting thing is my girlfriend and I are planning on getting married, and we both agree that living downtown is the best option. I grew up in the city, and don't regret it one bit. When my parents moved to small town in Ontario I ended up hating it, as I found out that the people my age who lived there were in a suburban bubble and the majority of them were spoiled and rude. I felt blessed to grow up in the city.

[dpenner]

haha understand your point but don't say all burb kids are dicks lol remember they are the majority we are the minority

by additions i was referring more to kids, that might not affect your plans and might not affect mine but the cliche yet powerfully true revelation that kids change your life does play into this

wow i sound like my older sister now :duh

[chrisallard5454]

haha understand your point but don't say all burb kids are dicks lol remember they are the majority we are the minority

by additions i was referring more to kids, that might not affect your plans and might not affect mine but the cliche yet powerfully true revelation that kids change your life does play into this

wow i sound like my older sister now :duh

I understand what you were saying. My point was that if my girlfriend and I decided to have kids, we would do so while living downtown. Downtown is not simply for a limited demographic. Every area has its faults, it's just a question of how you want to work around them.

What I meant about everyone seeming as if they were dicks was that when I was moved I was in culture shock because of the change. Every kid at my school had a certain mindset about living, and they seemed naive and uneducated on actual life lessons. But that was just my impression with the kids I interacted with. I made friends, and I don't judge any of them, they just have different morals then my friends in Winnipeg. This is comparing inner city kids to a town of 10 000.

Nothing bugged me more however then the kids in Ingersoll who grew up with parents making 100 000 plus a year and creating little small town gangs and being general jack asses because they thought they were hard. The funny thing is if they acted like they did in a real impoverished neighborhood, they wouldn't last long.

[pollswpg]

Wolseley could use a few mid-rises

Lol if we ask you, everywhere could use a mid/high-rise. I'd like to see your reaction when they announce they're building a high-rise bus station. :P

[armorand93]

Lol if we ask you, everywhere could use a mid/high-rise. I'd like to see your reaction when they announce they're building a high-rise bus station. :P

High-rise bus stations for high-floor buses, perfect! JK :P, too many steps.

- Portage could use a few mid-rises for sure....
- Looks like jimj is joining the Winnipegger@Heart and GrecoRoman ban club! I'd say lboy, but he kinda joins using the same name as before pretty much...
- Pretty sure the Portage area of Wolseley could bulldoze a few one-floor shops and slap down some TOD or something...

[h0twired]

I for one live in one of those "new suburbs". I long for the day when wifey and I can sell and move downtown near where I grew up. there are certain advantages in living in the burbs when it comes to raising up young children. I certainly miss walking to a neighborhood coffee shop for breakfast and just enjoying city life buzz by.

Why did you relocate to a "new suburb" then?

When I moved back to Winnipeg with my wife and infant son in tow we bought a house based on the walkable amenities nearby.

In our list we needed the following to be within walking distance of the house...

- bus stop with direct/express service to downtown
- schools and library
- playground and walking/biking pathways
- grocery store (preferably Sobeys/Safeway)
- coffee shop
- liquor store

Where did we end up?

The Frasers Grove side of East Kildonan only a block from Kildonan Drive. We have one of the better elementary schools nearby, the Henderson library, Frasers Grove Park and Kildonan Drive for running and biking.

We are 2 blocks from Henderson and right on the 11/40/41 bus routes with a Sobeys directly across Henderson. There is a Starbucks and a Tim Hortons nearby along with other shops and restaurants.

It is also probably one of the nicest and most family friendly mature areas in the city.

No need to end up in Sage Creek or Harbourview to raise a family.

[Auror]

Well I went for a ride on it just to see what it was like. It seemed too short. (obviously).

But I think the stops are too close to each other? I may not know much about rapid transit but I did ride the Vancouver SkyTrain. The stops are quite a distance between each other however here, as soon as we're out of a stop it's time to approach the next one.

I just hope that the second leg does not have that many stops in their old plans!

[rrskylar]

Why did you relocate to a "new suburb" then?

When I moved back to Winnipeg with my wife and infant son in tow we bought a house based on the walkable amenities nearby.

In our list we needed the following to be within walking distance of the house...

- bus stop with direct/express service to downtown
- schools and library
- playground and walking/biking pathways
- grocery store (preferably Sobeys/Safeway)
- coffee shop
- liquor store

Where did we end up?

The Frasers Grove side of East Kildonan only a block from Kildonan Drive. We have one of the better elementary schools nearby, the Henderson library, Frasers Grove Park and Kildonan Drive for running and biking.

We are 2 blocks from Henderson and right on the 11/40/41 bus routes with a Sobeys directly across Henderson. There is a Starbucks and a Tim Hortons nearby along with other shops and restaurants.

It is also probably one of the nicest and most family friendly mature areas in the city.

No need to end up in Sage Creek or Harbourview to raise a family.

Man, I live surprisingly close to you, have probably crossed paths with you on one of my walks. Besides the Frasers Grove area there are numerous similar neighbourhoods sprinkled throughout Winnipeg.

[Biff]

Man, I live surprisingly close to you, have probably crossed paths with you on one of my walks. Besides the Frasers Grove area there are numerous similar neighbourhoods sprinkled throughout Winnipeg.

I was there too, just six years ago i lived on Dunrobin on the riverside of Henderson. Great area.

[armorand93]

Well I went for a ride on it just to see what it was like. It seemed too short. (obviously).

But I think the stops are too close to each other? I may not know much about rapid transit but I did ride the Vancouver SkyTrain. The stops are quite a distance between each other however here, as soon as we're out of a stop it's time to approach the next one.

I just hope that the second leg does not have that many stops in their old plans!

IMO, only Windemere, McGillivary, Plaza Drive and Bison should get stops. Would make it SO MUCH faster.

[Cam]

IMO, only Windemere, McGillivary, Plaza Drive and Bison should get stops. Would make it SO MUCH faster.

Just because they will have a lot more stops then these, does not mean that every bus will stop at every stop.

[vid]

On a rapid transit system it likely will stop at every stop, simply because they're spaced further apart. Each stop has a large catchment area, and that means more people to serve. It isn't like regular bus service where the stops are every two or three blocks.

[Andy6]

On a rapid transit system it likely will stop at every stop, simply because they're spaced further apart. Each stop has a large catchment area, and that means more people to serve. It isn't like regular bus service where the stops are every two or three blocks.

Maybe at rush hour toward the university, where virtually everyone is presumed to be heading for the terminal at U of M, you could have each bus stop at every second stop. Would seem to make sense.

[h0twired]

Maybe at rush hour toward the university, where virtually everyone is presumed to be heading for the terminal at U of M, you could have each bus stop at every second stop. Would seem to make sense.

I wouldn't be surprised if the "Super Express" routes bypass a number of the stops along the bus way and go straight to the U of M.

[vid]

Having express buses the only stop at major stops running parallel to local service is probably the more feasible option for many busy bus routes in almost any city.

[North of 49]

I can definitely see BRT or LRT working for transit users (all Winnipeggers) only if it were expanded sooner than later. So long as it runs along corridors that see a fair amount of commuter traffic. Having hubs I think will work and dedicated feeder lines involved some how. (I'm no logistics engineer)

The real question is funding and the commitment to get it completed over the course of route construction.

I get the impression that city hall is not up to the task as of yet, because it would likely mean cuts to other municipal responsibilities and vote getting ventures.

and the wheels on the bus go round n round, round n round........

[Andy6]

I remember from my days in Boston that on the Green T line (basically a streetcar) to Boston College, if two of the cars got bunched up together and the second was mostly empty they would, right on the spot, change the first one to express (no stops) and make everyone who didn't want express switch on to the second one.

[alittle1]

I remember from my days in Boston that on the Green T line (basically a streetcar) to Boston College, if two of the cars got bunched up together and the second was mostly empty they would, right on the spot, change the first one to express (no stops) and make everyone who didn't want express switch on to the second one.

...but then that would require thinking. We do not have anyone working for Transit with that authority and the ability to think ahead. Their plan would be, we have you on here now, sooner or later we'll make it to your destination.

[JamieDavid Exchange]

:hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell:
Unfortunately this city is run by a bunch of retards!!!! This city takes one step forward then makes an idiotic decision that then takes this city ten steps back. Here's another example of or politicians at city hall just doing that.

The city reported it needed 300 million to complete the second phase of the SW Rapid Transit Corridor..... CRYING they have no money for it..... ASKING to raise bus fair $0.20........ ASKING the Provence for a share of the gas tax cause THEY DON'T HAVE THE MONEY TO COMPLETE IT.

WELL WELL WELL, They sure found the 300 million now to complete the Chief Peguis Trail all the way to Route 90 and the William Clement Parkway to Wilkes Avenue, both by 2016 instead of by 2031!!!

:whatthefuck: Clearly this city is NOT trying to move forward as a modern city. YES, we do need those extensions, but LET'S FINISH ONE PRODUCTIVE PROJECT FIRST!!!!!! This pisses me right off....more so than the stupid water park bullshit!!!!!

Read the factual article on this in the Winnipeg Free Press... http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/amid-hubbub-300m-in-freeways-approved-149015725.html

:hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell:


http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash3/542922_10150864863780864_717515863_11994885_62080165_n.jpg

:drowning::tantrum::maddown::dead:



For up to the date posts of the 311 At Centre Point Winnipeg, PLEASE visit my form here at -----> http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=197745

[chrisallard5454]

A look at my layout for our RT System. A pipe dream I know, but if utilized properly the cost could be kept at a minimum.

http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?msid=208857001764473287852.0004be9e27d030b331b22&msa=0&ll=49.866759,-97.080002&spn=0.252276,0.617294

All I have drawn is what the main lines would be. My assumption was that feeder lines could be used for each subsection of rapid transit allowing more focused routes.

[kmklym]

I really wish the chief peguis expansion had included rapid transit, this further expansion also.

[h0twired]

I really wish the chief peguis expansion had included rapid transit, this further expansion also.

Why would CPT need rapid transit?

Its not like you have tons of bus routes needed between Lag and Main St.

Rapid transit in Winnipeg (along with every other city in North America) is a series of spokes going to and from downtown.

[Bdog]

A look at my layout for our RT System. A pipe dream I know, but if utilized properly the cost could be kept at a minimum.

http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?msid=208857001764473287852.0004be9e27d030b331b22&msa=0&ll=49.866759,-97.080002&spn=0.252276,0.617294

All I have drawn is what the main lines would be. My assumption was that feeder lines could be used for each subsection of rapid transit allowing more focused routes.

Good ideas there CA - except maybe the western leg, which is a bit convoluted in it's route downtown. I like your idea of a corridor along Wilkes - with several thousand acres of land south of Wilkes slated to be developed over the next few decades, there are some real opportunities for transit oriented development out there, we have the foresight. Would also tie in well with the development of the Parker lands, and the higher density condos that have sprung up over the past few years North of Sterling Lyon...

[pollswpg]

A look at my layout for our RT System. A pipe dream I know, but if utilized properly the cost could be kept at a minimum.

http://maps.google.ca/maps/ms?msid=208857001764473287852.0004be9e27d030b331b22&msa=0&ll=49.866759,-97.080002&spn=0.252276,0.617294

All I have drawn is what the main lines would be. My assumption was that feeder lines could be used for each subsection of rapid transit allowing more focused routes.

Seems good...but the only one I don't know about is the line going to south st. vital. That's my old area...and i think that at most we'd only ever be able to have an express bus. even though the ridership during rush hour (and outside of rush hour sometimes) would be RT worthy. It'd be great to have RT, but there's just no room for it. Especially on St. Annes -- where it looks like you line runs.

The only place that's physically suitable for RT in the south-east is the along the CN line...but it pretty much only runs through wealthier areas like Royal Wood....and they're probably pretty unlikely to use transit...even if it was a high speed monorail with an onboard masseuse.

I especially like your raised RT track from Union Station to graham though

[Spocket]

:hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell:


:hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell::hell:



:drowning::tantrum::maddown::dead:



For up to the date posts of the 311 At Centre Point Winnipeg, PLEASE visit my form here at -----> http://forum.skyscraperpage.com/showthread.php?t=197745

Can we put a limit on how many emoticons the younger members can use so as to maintain the perception that we're not actually all twelve years old ?

[h0twired]

Can we put a limit on how many emoticons the younger members can use so as to maintain the perception that we're not actually all twelve years old ?

Agreed.

That post reminded me of this...

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MyQO0PjhUpA/TsGmv3s5QbI/AAAAAAAAAik/uk5deMXH2_g/Homer%2527s%2Bpage.gif

[chrisallard5454]

Seems good...but the only one I don't know about is the line going to south st. vital. That's my old area...and i think that at most we'd only ever be able to have an express bus. even though the ridership during rush hour (and outside of rush hour sometimes) would be RT worthy. It'd be great to have RT, but there's just no room for it. Especially on St. Annes -- where it looks like you line runs.

The only place that's physically suitable for RT in the south-east is the along the CN line...but it pretty much only runs through wealthier areas like Royal Wood....and they're probably pretty unlikely to use transit...even if it was a high speed monorail with an onboard masseuse.

I especially like your raised RT track from Union Station to graham though

Thanks for the constructive feedback. However the St. Vital line was actually east of St. Annes on a track. I don't know if that was the one you were talking about that only runs through the rich areas. But if you look at the short info box it states that a majority of the RT would be rail, used on existing tracks, severely lowering the cost of doing this over all.

My plan was to have Rail do the main to and from downtown for each sub-section followed by a loop feeding the track routes of bus transit. That way not near as much has to be demolished, and all that has to be built are the stations.

And in regards to the St James-St. Charles line, It is the only place I could think of without having to lay right through residential neighbourhoods, which in urban planning I wouldn't doubt as a very bad thing as that can create ghetto's. - At least it does in the states.

[jimj_wpg]

@ChrisA...re: your RT map....

Why is there a line going down Wilkes/McGillivray? Are there enough population going down that way to make a rail-based transit route that part of town?

I don't think it'd be sensible to put rail-transit there and spend how much $$$...Even if there were no such thing as $$$ it'd still make no sense. How many would ride rapid transit to Oak Bluff Manitoba?

Instead focus on what would make actual sense, like a commuter rail line between Selkirk and Winnipeg, to replace the Beaver Bus.

[JamieDavid Exchange]

Can we put a limit on how many emoticons the younger members can use so as to maintain the perception that we're not actually all twelve years old ?



My point of posting so many animated smilies is to grab the attention of members reading this post. Seems to have worked since you came on are complaining about it.

Who the mature one posting a complaint about it???

[chrisallard5454]

@ChrisA...re: your RT map....

Why is there a line going down Wilkes/McGillivray? Are there enough population going down that way to make a rail-based transit route that part of town?

I don't think it'd be sensible to put rail-transit there and spend how much $$$...Even if there were no such thing as $$$ it'd still make no sense. How many would ride rapid transit to Oak Bluff Manitoba?

Instead focus on what would make actual sense, like a commuter rail line between Selkirk and Winnipeg, to replace the Beaver Bus.

That made no sense sir. The point of the Wilkes Transit was for future development in the south. It is called Forward thinking. And it wouldn't cost a fortune as it would be built on existing rail lines. You're statement beyond that made absolutely no sense what so ever. And you obviously haven't been reading previous posts.

[WJG]

While I think the location of the routes themselves are important, I think the biggest thing is connecting key locations within the city easily and efficiently. Downtown (ie. MTS Center/Portage Place/The Bay) and the U of M (and stadium) is a start, but I hope the routes eventually also connect to other key locations like the airport, Polo Park, Main (ie. the museum and concert hall), the Forks, Health Science Center, etc.

I also hope the people planning the routes are able to integrate both Union Station and CPR Station in the future and convert them into RT stations. It's what they were originally designed for anyways, and Union Station could be a station for the Forks and CPR station could be a station for the Waterfront/East Exchange/Chinatown.

[rypinion]

My point of posting so many animated smilies is to grab the attention of members reading this post. Seems to have worked since you came on are complaining about it.

Who the mature one posting a complaint about it???

You may be attracting attention, but you're also likely alienating many who just will ignore your posts in the future.

[h0twired]

My point of posting so many animated smilies is to grab the attention of members reading this post. Seems to have worked since you came on are complaining about it.

Who the mature one posting a complaint about it???

Or you could just trust that we would read your post.

Its like yelling at people when they are already paying attention. It's just obnoxious.

[chrisallard5454]

Just updated the RT idea so that it is a little easier to read. When talking about Elevated Rail I am referring to something like this.

http://www.yadig.com/uploads/biz-logo/Dubai_Metro_ph_alb_260520115503.jpg

http://www.google.ca/imgres?q=Elevated+Rail&um=1&hl=en&safe=off&biw=1280&bih=680&tbm=isch&tbnid=IIoqL0GMsYf7rM:&imgrefurl=http://www.yadig.com/AE/Dubai/Public-Services/Dubai-Metro-Dubai/information/19337&docid=9OzVs6Umg5MG6M&imgurl=http://www.yadig.com/uploads/biz-logo/Dubai_Metro_ph_alb_260520115503.jpg&w=510&h=390&ei=Ss-aT_SwKsjl0gG2kdXrDg&zoom=1&iact=hc&vpx=776&vpy=243&dur=1108&hovh=196&hovw=257&tx=129&ty=142&sig=111659306488602407951&page=1&tbnh=152&tbnw=212&start=0&ndsp=16&ved=1t:429,r:14,s:0,i:94

[chrisallard5454]

Considering Council has made its goals very clear, I know we will never get this in my lifetime, which saddens me like you wouldn't believe, but if I was ever to run for mayor - a man can dream - My main priority would be allowing something like this to come true. I would look at Private-Public Partnerships, much like they have with the 407 Toll Route in Toronto. If it can be done for a road, why can't it be done for Transit?