Chapter 1: Understanding Urban Transportation Options

Learning Objectives:

• Explore Public Transportation:
  
  • Identify various modes of public transportation available in the community.
  • Learn about bus routes, schedules, and fare payment systems.
• Addressing Safety Concerns:
  
  • Recognize potential safety risks associated with independent travel.
  • Develop strategies to mitigate safety concerns and build confidence in using public transportation.

Public transportation is a resource for many people, including those with intellectual disabilities, to get to work independently. In Winnipeg, the public transit system offers a range of options, including buses with accessible features. Understanding how to navigate bus routes, schedules, and fare payment systems is key to making public transportation a reliable option for getting to work. People who live or work outside of Winnipeg or Brandon face significant challenges in getting to and from work successfully. Careful thought must be given to how people will get to work as part of the job-seeking process. 

Safety is a concern when travelling independently. It's important to recognize potential risks, such as navigating unfamiliar areas or dealing with crowded buses, and develop strategies to address these concerns. Building confidence through practice and understanding safety protocols can help make public transportation a viable and safe option for everyone. Support staff play a key role in equipping people with the necessary information to be safer with public transit, and also to support practice through repetition.