St. John’s residents say bus frequency and the cost of fare remain their top concerns when it comes to improving public transit. That’s according to the second phase of the capital city’s public transit review.

The City of St. John’s has released the results from a series of public consultations on public transit. Based on a set of recommendations from Dillon Consulting Limited, the survey sought to get a sense of what the public feels is the best route forward.

About 50 people attended two in-person sessions and almost 190 filled out the city’s survey, which was available online for a four-week period.

While about 43 per cent of the respondents use the bus at least once per week, nearly one third of the respondents were not regular users of Metrobus.

Of those who responded, the majority highlighted the need for more frequent and reliable service along key routes during peak hours. Most liked a recommendation of a “Frequent Interval System,” featuring 15-minute bus intervals during the busiest time of day, as well as more emphasis on 30-minute intervals elsewhere in the week.

Most agreed with making fare more affordable for students under the age of 18—about 50 per cent overall preferring reduced fare over free rides.

The city also received feedback from several respondents who expressed concerns about the barriers that low-income earners face, when it comes to transportation in the capital city.

A final report from Dillon Consulting is expected to be brought to council by year’s end.