There is a bit cof ontroversy in Toronto currently, about whether or not baby strollers should be allowed on buses at certain times of the day, or if they should limit the number allowed on any one bus. People are taking a stand on both sides. Many young mothers rely on public transit in the city and, as one mother said, it's hard to hold a 25 pound baby, try to fold a stroller, and then climb on the bus, especially if you have a disability.

This made me start thinking of wheelchairs on public transit and the need for all buses to be completely accessible. Many of the same people who complain about baby strollers also complain when it takes longer for a person on a wheelchair to get on an accessible bus. There are special buses for the disabled but they are not convenient at all times. I use a service called Mobility Plus, which I have written about previously. You need to book a ride three days in advance, which is not helpful when you have to be somewhere at short notice. In my city, not all buses are accessible yet, so people in wheelchairs often have to wait for an accessible bus--not great, especially in the sub-zero weather we are currently experiencing.

There is an easy solution to this, in my opinion. Every bus should have space at the front where wheelchairs or baby strollers can fit. This keeps them out of the way, and they do not interfere with anyone else. That might mean four to six less seats on the bus ,but it is only fair. Of course, people will still complain that it takes more time for a wheelchair-bound person to get on the bus, but they are the type of person who only thinks of themselves.