Winnipeg Transit Plus will launch a new reservation system on June 18

A transportation service for Winnipeggers with disabilities is launching a new ride-booking system next month that it hopes will make the service more accessible.

Winnipeg Transit Plus offers self-service booking options via smartphone/web app and automated phone service with voice response technology.

The phone service is scheduled to be launched on June 18. The app will launch that day for a “select group of early adopters,” with a full launch scheduled for July 9.

Transit Plus is designed for Winnipeggers who cannot use the city's approved public transit routes due to physical disabilities. The non-emergency medical transport company hopes the new booking service will remove existing barriers.

“Winnipeg Transit Plus customers have been asking for more affordable and reliable service, and we've heard them loud and clear,” Mayor Scott Gillingham said in a press release.

“We are delighted to have reached such an important milestone for our valued customers,” added Theresa Platt, Transit Plus Customer Service Manager. “Our team is available and we look forward to supporting customers as they transition to this new system.”

CityNews previously described complaints from users of the service inaccessible reception points until inconsistent pickup times.

Winnipeg Transit Plus predicts the new system will make routing more efficient; simplifying the work process of drivers; increase pooling of rideshares so that the vehicle can accommodate more ride requests; and speed up customer service response times.

Transit Plus also introduces electronic cash payments at a reduced rate, and customers can add a debit or credit card to their online profile.