It is sometimes said that the measure of a civilized society is how it treats its most vulnerable members.
While Barrhead might score very highly in most areas, it has been unable to solve the public transport conundrum, something affecting mainly the elderly and the disabled.
Of course, the same can be said of many communities throughout rural Alberta.
If you have a car, no problem. But what about those who don’t? What about those without a kindly neighbour, family member or friend to give them a lift?
In Barrhead, there is a taxi service for local journeys. Yet there is no affordable option for a trip to the city.
Greyhound used to operate a Barrhead-Edmonton minibus service, but axed it in 2011, claiming it was unprofitable. It was among a batch of rural Alberta routes cut by Greyhound amid claims they were costing the company $7.5 million each year.
Although understandable, the Greyhound decision effectively cut Barrhead off for those reliant on a public service.
About six months ago the transport problem came under focus when 70-year-old Scotty Smith was left stranded in St. Albert after being taken there by ambulance for a hospital check-up.
At one stage he contemplated hitchhiking on a cold winter’s evening. He eventually returned to Barrhead thanks to a friend’s son-in-law who happened to be in the area.
In April this year, 92-year-old Doug Gibb spotlighted the issue again by announcing plans to launch a gratis Barrhead transport service for those in wheelchairs or using walkers.
Of course, we all applaud Gibbs’ enterprise and compassion. Yet shouldn’t Barrhead be offering a sustainable public transport service that does not put the onus on good Samaritans in our midst?
The fact a neighbour, friend, relative or caring stranger is generally willing to step in to help someone in need is no justification for maintaining the status quo.
Our seniors deserve a properly regulated service that offers a measure of independence and dignity.
It seems that Barrhead is now tackling this issue with the attention it merits, thanks to a Transportation Task Force.
The group has carried out research, which shows that communities like Westlock, Athabasca, Whitecourt and Hinton have functioning transport systems. It is natural to ask: if they can do it, why can’t we, particularly given our high percentage of seniors?
The task force, with the help of municipalities, will now be carrying out a transport survey. We hope it can provide an accurate picture of want and need beyond the current band-aid solution of volunteer drivers. As ever, money will be a critical factor. How much are people willing to pay for this service?
The answer could determine whether an accessible taxi, bus or van service gets the green light.
