Colleen James

• Reallocate space on selected streets (e.g. road diets, transit lanes, protected bike lanes)
• Prioritize active transportation improvements during routine resurfacing
• Focus improvements around schools, transit corridors, and commercial areas

Yes, sidewalks should be cleared alongside roads as part of regular winter maintenance

Would you like to provide any additional context for your views on transportation?candidate's own words

I believe public transportation is an essential public service and affordability should not be a barrier to accessing it. As Regional Councillor, I have focused on practical ways to improve transit access and affordability for residents who rely on public transportation. I supported free transit for children six and under, supported the GRT Night Loop to maintain access to transit during late-night hours, and supported the Older Adult Day Pass pilot to make transit more accessible for seniors. I also advocated to ensure the Affordable Transit Pass remained at the same fare, protecting an important affordability measure for low-income residents. These actions reflect my broader view that transit policy must consider both the cost of the fare and the availability of service. I support targeted fare-free and reduced-fare programs where they can meaningfully improve access, while also ensuring that transit remains reliable, frequent and financially sustainable. Transit is not truly accessible if people cannot afford the fare or if the service they depend on is not available when they need it.

Please describe one criterion or principle that should not be compromised when making transit investment decisions.candidate's own words

As a Regional Councillor, I have advocated for transit decisions that recognize that not everyone has the same mobility options. One example is my support for the GRT Night Loop, which helps maintain access to transit outside traditional service hours for residents who work late shifts, attend evening programs or do not have access to a vehicle. I have also advocated for expanding the Veterans Transit Pass Program, recognizing that affordability can be a barrier to accessing transit. For me, transit investment is about more than ridership numbers. We need to consider who relies on a service, when they need it, and whether changes will leave people disconnected from employment, education, healthcare and community services. Operational sustainability is important, but equity must remain a fundamental consideration in deciding where and when we invest in transit.

Please name one specific street, corridor, or project where you would prioritize these changes.candidate's own words

I would prioritize suburban corridors and neighbourhood streets where rapid growth has increased traffic and where residents are concerned about speeding and pedestrian safety. Over the past four years, I have advocated for a more pedestrian-focused approach, including bringing forward the No Right on Red and Leading Pedestrian Intervals (LPI) pilot to improve pedestrian visibility and safety at intersections. I would build on that work by prioritizing traffic calming in suburban communities with regional roads, particularly near schools, and transit stops and neighbourhood shopping areas. This could include speed management, safer crossings, LPIs, curb extensions and other street-design measures that encourage slower speeds. As our suburbs grow, we need to make sure our transportation infrastructure grows with them. Residents should not have to choose between living in a growing suburban neighbourhood and feeling safe walking or cycling in it.