The Impact of the Coronavirus on Public Transit Usage: A Personal Perspective

During the ongoing pandemic, the prevalence and effectiveness of public transit have come under scrutiny. Personally, the coronavirus has drastically changed my approach to transportation. For instance, if a bus arrives sooner than a taxi, I used to jump on it. However, due to the reduced service and increased risk, I now opt for taxis and private vehicles. Even in cities where buses run regularly, the issue of social distancing and limited seating mandates a rethink of personal travel choices.

Vancouver's Reduced Transit Service

In Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, the majority of transit systems are operating at reduced service levels. This is a direct result of lockdown measures. Presently, there are approximately 80 fewer riders on an average day. The buses are less crowded, allowing me to maintain social distance with roughly just one seat on the right side available for solitude.

Shifting Transportation Preferences

My preference for private vehicles over public transit is not due to coronavirus concerns, but rather a response to meeting my personal needs and convenience. When I resided in London, UK, I didn't even own a car because London's extensive public transit system, particularly the Underground, was highly efficient and convenient. However, moving to the Canadian Prairies revealed a very different scenario. Public transit here is often inadequate, with vast geographic areas and long winters making it an impractical option.

Recently, my city council made a decision to cut down on public transportation costs during weekdays, running it based on Saturday schedules. This decision led to significant overcrowding during peak hours, despite efforts to maintain social distancing. Post-peak, the buses were significantly underutilized, further emphasizing the irrationality of this move.

Home/Teleworking and Personal Choices

With my current situation of home/teleworking, my main reasons for leaving home are limited to purchasing essentials and occasional walks for fresh air. These short trips do not necessitate public transit. By opting for private vehicles, I am contributing to a safer, less crowded public transit system for essential users. My choice not to use public transit also aligns with the broader public health goal of reducing the spread of the virus.

Ultimately, the pandemic has highlighted the limitations and inefficiencies of public transit in many urban areas. As cities navigate these challenges, finding a balance between public safety and the practical needs of commuters is crucial.

Key Points: - Reduced service levels in cities like Vancouver due to the pandemic. - Private vehicle use over public transit for convenience and social distancing. - The limitations of public transit in regions with vast geographic areas and long winters. - City council decisions impacting public transit efficiency.