Dear editor,

We knew our B.C. public transportation system was bad, but not this bad.  

But first, a history of how it 'used to be' - not world-class, but at least it was doable.

We moved to the Comox Valley in 2002 and at that time we had a train that travelled daily from Victoria to Courtenay, a return trip.   And it was busy.  Our relatives and friends travelled that way and loved it - and I had visions of using it when I couldn't drive anymore.

At the same time, we had a very efficient Greyhound bus system that serviced most of the Island.  The fact that Greyhound also had 'bus depots' was a plus, but we didn't know that until it all changed, practically overnight.  In a flash our depots were gone, as well as the places where you could actually buy a ticket in person, and wait comfortably out of the elements until the bus arrived - this system gave all of us equal opportunity to move around affordably. 

Then, it seemed like overnight, we lost our buses and depots.

We were expecting a visitor (89) from Victoria for a few days, she had a ride to Nanaimo, visited friends for lunch, and then tried to catch the local transportation to Courtenay.  She didn't realize you had to book 24 hours in advance, by computer. 

She couldn't get on the planned bus, and had to stay overnight, but finally, with help, made the booking system work and arrived late the next day.  She planned to return to Victoria on Sunday, so we went to the bus website on Saturday.  Well, it was like diving down a rabbit hole - no luck.  

A computer-savvy family member arrived to help but somehow the website wouldn't even allow her to work through it either. I was finally able to get her a ride with a friend who was driving as far as Sidney today and she had to take public transportation from there to Victoria, at 89, and with a suitcase.  I wonder how many others have just thrown their hands in the air and given up?

Two weeks ago we had an enlightening visit with an older couple from New Zealand and they told us their story about trying to get across Canada just using public transportation. They found it almost impossible and some prices were out of reach.  

We're now in a climate crisis and governments at all levels should be encouraging public transportation in Canada but it just isn't happening. Right now our transportation system is discriminatory, ageist and embarrassing.

I'll be sending my letter to the transportation ministers at each level of government and encourage others who've been impacted to do the same.

Rosemary Baxter

Courtenay