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DYNAMIC QUINTET

(TEAM 5)

NAMES:

ANITA YOHANNAN (300216481)

GURLEEN KAUR (300216999)

HARLEEN DEOL (300216570)

HARSH CHANDWANI (300216238)

RAGHAV NISCHAL (300216124)

ASSIGNMENT 8

PREPARED FOR- ELISABETH MACDONALD-MURRAY

DATE: 9th APRIL, 2024

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Dynamic Quintet
University of the Fraser Valley
04/09/2024

Prof. MacDonald-Murray
Chair, UFV Funding Committee
University of the Fraser Valley

Dear Prof. MacDonald-Murray,

We are writing to forward the report that Dynamic Quintet, the University of Fraser Valley's
(UFV) student advocacy organization, developed. It addresses the urgent problem of
transportation difficulties caused by inadequate public transportation that UFV students face.

As UFV students' worries about the shortcomings and inefficiencies of the present public
transportation system grew, Dynamic Quintet was formed. With the generous grant of $1000
provided by the UFV Funding Committee, our group embarked on extensive research to
understand the scope and importance of this issue and to advocate for meaningful change.

You may find a detailed examination of the difficulties UFV students have as a result of
inadequate public transportation in our report. Particular data, figures, and case studies that
illustrate the practical effects of these issues—such as lengthier commutes, restricted access
to campus and other important locations, and financial strain on students—have been
incorporated. Furthermore, we have delineated prospective remedies and suggestions with the
objective of enhancing transportation accessibility for every UFV student. These encompass
advocating for amplified funding for public transportation infrastructure, enhancing route
coverage and frequency, and instituting fare policies that are accommodating to students.

We think that this research offers insightful information on the transportation difficulties that
UFV students encounter and emphasizes how critical it is to resolve these problems in order
to improve both the overall academic performance and experience of students. We are
appreciative of the chance to participate in this crucial discussion and the assistance from the
UFV Funding Committee.

I appreciate you taking the time to consider this. If you have any inquiries or need more
information about our report, don't hesitate to get in touch with us.
Sincerely,

Dynamic Quintet
University of Fraser Valley
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION & PROBLEM 4-5

STATEMENT

-BY RAGHAV NISCHAL

DATA COLLECTION & RESEARCH 6-7

FINDINGS

-BY HARSH CHANDWANI

INTERPRETATION & ANALYSIS 8-9

-BY ANITA YOHANNAN

DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS & 10-12

SOLUTIONS

-BY GURLEEN KAUR

CONCLUSIONS & 13-14

RECOMMENDATIONS

-BY HARLEEN DEOL

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Raghav Nischal

INTRODUCTION

Overview of UFV Abbotsford Campus

Nestled within the vibrant community of Abbotsford, British Columbia, the University of the
Fraser Valley (UFV) Abbotsford Campus stands as a testament to academic excellence and
community enrichment. Since its establishment, UFV has been a cornerstone of higher
education in the Fraser Valley region, offering a diverse range of programs and initiatives
that cater to the evolving needs of its student body. With its picturesque surroundings and
commitment to fostering a culture of learning, UFV serves not only as an educational
institution but also as a hub for intellectual exploration and cultural exchange.

Growing Student Population and Transportation Demand

Enrollment at UFV has increased dramatically in recent years, which is a reflection to the
university's academic strength and reputation as a kind and accepting community. Although
this student growth rate is evidence of UFV's success, it has also resulted in an equivalent
increase in the demand for transportation. The increasing number of students means that there
is a growing demand for dependable and effective modes of transportation to enable easy
access to the university campus.

Current Transportation Infrastructure and Limitations

There are significant limitations with the current transportation system servicing UFV
Abbotsford Campus, even with efforts to accommodate the growing number of students.
Although there are public transportation options, especially during rush hours, they do not
always fit in with the diversified schedules of instructors and students. Additionally, even if
parking facilities exist, they are frequently insufficient to accommodate the needs of the
expanding campus population, which causes traffic jams and frustration among commuters.

Challenges Faced by Students and Faculty

At the UFV Abbotsford Campus, teachers and students face a variety of transportation-
related challenges. Accessing education can be extremely difficult for people living close to
the university by problems like limited parking and inconsistent public transportation. On the
other hand, students who reside in a different city can face even more challenges, such as
long commutes and an absence of feasible transit options. These difficulties not only make it
harder to succeed academically but also take away from the whole student experience by
making it more difficult to participate in extracurricular activities and university events.

Problem Statement: Transportation Issues at UFV Abbotsford Campus

Given the above-mentioned difficulties, it is clear that students who live close to or far from
the UFV Abbotsford Campus have serious concerns about transportation. For many
members of the UFV community, these obstacles to higher education compromise the ease of
access and convenience of their choice. These range from insufficient parking spaces to
restricted public transportation options. Therefore, immediate action is required to resolve
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these problems and guarantee that all students and educators have fair access to educational
opportunities.

Students at UFV experience transportation issues that affect not only their academic goals but
also the campus community as a whole. Since UFV continues to draw students from a wide
range of backgrounds and places, resolving transportation-related concerns is essential for
promoting participation and guaranteeing fair access to education. These obstacles can also
have an economic impact on students because they can result in extra transportation costs or
make it harder for them to balance their work and school obligations because of their long
commutes. At UFV Abbotsford Campus, transportation concerns can be resolved to improve
the university's reputation as a student-focused organization and create an atmosphere that is
more supportive of education and development. Consequently, it is extremely important that
the UFV Funding Committee acknowledges the importance of this issue and moves quickly
to resolve transportation-related issues in coordination with the relevant stakeholders, such as
students, professors, the local government, and transportation authorities. UFV can maintain
its dedication to accessibility and guarantee that every member of the university community
can prosper and thrive by means of coordinated efforts and well-considered investments in
transportation infrastructure and services.

In conclusion, UFV Abbotsford Campus transportation issues are complex and demand quick
attention from stakeholders and university officials. By tackling these issues, UFV will be
able to provide a more welcoming and encouraging learning environment for both staff and
students, which will improve the university's reputation and influence in the Fraser Valley.
Improvements to the campus's transportation network and services will not only help the
current student body but also set the stage for the institution's future expansion and
prosperity. By taking proactive steps to resolve transportation-related challenges, UFV
continues to strengthen its position as a top university in the Fraser Valley and demonstrating
its dedication to the welfare and academic achievement of its students. In addition to helping
present students, addressing these problems will make it possible for future generations to
succeed in an environment that is more welcoming and encouraging for education.
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Harsh Chandwani

Method 1: Questionnaires for surveys

Survey questionnaires were one way of gathering information from University of the Fraser
Valley (UFV) students who find it difficult to commute to the Abbotsford campus because of
inefficient transit. These questionnaires can be sent electronically to students through email
or through student-accessible websites. The questionnaire asked the students about their
experiences with public transportation, including the number of delays, crowded buses, and
the absence of convenient options. Students were also asked for ideas on how to make transit
services better so that they could better serve their requirements. Through the analysis of
survey results, trends and recurring problems encountered by students were found, offering
important new perspectives on the difficulties associated with traveling to the Abbotsford
campus.

Method 2: Talks in Focus Groups

Holding focus groups with students who have trouble getting to the UFV Abbotsford campus
was another way of gathering data. Focus groups give students a chance to speak candidly
about their experiences traveling, which enables researchers to learn more about the
particular difficulties they face. A student group member served as the facilitator for these
conversations, guiding the discourse and encouraging others to contribute their ideas and
experiences. Focus group talks helped us to obtain qualitative insights on the effects of
inefficient transport on students' everyday lives and academic achievement, as well as a more
nuanced knowledge of the issues surrounding it.

210 of the 300 UFV students who participated in the survey said they were using public
transportation less frequently to get to the Abbotsford campus. According to the findings, a
significant proportion of the polled students—roughly 70%—have decreased their
dependence on public transit as a result of perceived inefficiencies. Frequent delays (cited by
65% of respondents), crowded buses (cited by 45% of respondents), and unsuitable
transportation schedules (cited by 40% of respondents) are some of the factors causing this
reduction. These results demonstrate how UFV students' choices for how to commute are
significantly impacted by transit inefficiencies, underscoring the necessity of improving
transportation services and infrastructure to better serve the campus community.

A significant number of students at the UFV Abbotsford campus face the difficulty of making
long-distance, frequently futile trips by public transportation, such as those from Surrey,
Langley, and Vancouver. The Abbotsford campus is a lengthy drive for about 30% of
respondents, according to recent data analysis from questionnaires given to UFV students.
These respondents live in places like Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver. Approximately 80%
of the students expressed concern about the efficiency of public transportation for their
lengthy travels. These figures demonstrate how badly ineffective public transportation affects
pupils who live in remote locations. These students have to deal with lengthy journey
durations, several transfers, erratic schedules, and crammed buses or trains. These challenges
not only cause stress and annoyance, but they also interfere with students' everyday schedules
and academic obligations. Furthermore, depending too much on subpar public transportation
might result in missed lessons, a decline in punctuality, and poor academic achievement.
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It is critical to address the shortcomings in the public transportation system that support long-
distance routes in order to reduce the load on UFV students who commute from places such
as Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver. Not only would more accessible transportation improve
accessibility, but it would also benefit students who have long journeys to the Abbotsford
campus in terms of their health and academic performance.
Results from the UFV student poll show recurring themes and issues with public transit. The
main complaints include frequent delays, which 65% of respondents mentioned as a source of
annoyance with erratic timetables. According to 45% of students, there are dangers to safety
and discomfort from overcrowding. Forty percent point out that their schedules collide with
their academic obligations. Concerns about ineffective long-distance travel are common
among students coming from far-off places like Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver (80% of
respondents worry about lengthy journey durations, numerous transfers, and unpredictable
timetables). All of these results point to the critical need for infrastructure and service
upgrades in public transportation in order to successfully address the issues faced by students.

Based on their perception of inefficiencies, UFV students are clearly trending away from
public transit, according to the poll results. Important drawbacks with the transit system
include regular delays, crowding, inappropriate scheduling, and difficulties with long-
distance travel. These patterns highlight how transit inefficiencies have a big influence on
students' travel decisions and experiences in general. Improving accessibility, convenience,
and safety for UFV students requires addressing these issues. To put effective solutions into
place and improve the campus community's transportation experience, the university and the
transit authority must work together.
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Anita Yohannan

Interpretation and Analysis

The results drawn from the surveys as well as group discussions reveal how the relatively
high inefficiency gets manifested in the common student life, affecting especially those
students living far from UFV in such places as Surrey, Langley and Vancouver the
most. Students who were polled indicated that they were using public transportation less
frequently because they found it inefficient, with issues like long wait times, packed buses,
and irregular scheduling. Furthermore, along with the limitations in distant transportation, the
challenges including the limited routes, frequent transferring and the unscheduled travel were
mentioned by the students. Students' academic responsibilities and general well-being
are hampered by these problems, which also lead to stress and discomfort. For public transit
to better meet the needs of UFV students, infrastructure and service upgrades are desperately
needed. The following points highlight the significant implications that this issue carries.

Implications on Student Well-being and Academic Performance:

Inadequate transit routes connecting locations like Surrey Langley and Vancouver to UFV
Abbotsford Campus as well as infrequent bus services might have an adverse impact on
students' well-being and academic performance Students have to cope with extended
commute times and irregular transportation systems which makes them feel fatigued, anxious
and stressed which ultimately hampers their mental health and physical well-being. Often
students who only rely on public transit to get to classes typically arrive late to classes or fail
to arrive at all, which makes it harder for them to engage actively in class, join extracurricular
activities and make use of campus resources. As a result, students may eventually struggle to
stay up to date with their coursework and experience setbacks in their academic life.

Relationship between Transportation Accessibility and Social Equity:

In order to ensure equitable access to educational facilities, on-campus jobs, and other
services, accessibility to reliable transport options is essential as it promotes social equity.
However, inequalities in transportation access significantly impact underprivileged or
marginalized communities, adding to already-existing social inequalities. Students from
disadvantaged or low-income families typically face greater challenges when it comes to
getting access to reliable transportation, which limits their opportunities for both academic
achievement and socioeconomic growth. Moreover, poor transportation access increases
social isolation by limiting access to campus services and chances for community
involvement. This social isolation can have detrimental effects on students' sense of
belonging, mental well-being, and overall academic success, perpetuating cycles of social
disadvantage and marginalization.

Environmental Consequences of Current Transportation Practices:

Inadequate and irregular public transit options to UFV Abbotsford Campus have led to a
heavy reliance on personal vehicles, significantly contributing to environmental degradation.
This heavy reliance contributes to air pollution through increased traffic congestion,
prolonged travel times, and increased emissions. Air quality is deteriorated by vehicle
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emissions of pollutants like nitrogen oxides and particulate matter, which pose serious health
concerns, especially to vulnerable populations like infants and senior citizens.
Furthermore, the increased dependence on personal vehicles contributes to climate change by
releasing greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, contributing to global warming. This
phenomenon leads to rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea level rise,
endangering ecosystems, and human well-being. To address these challenges, UFV
Abbotsford Campus must prioritize this issue and provide alternative transportation methods
to students to enhance accessibility. By doing so, the campus can mitigate environmental
degradation, enhance air quality, and protect public health for the entire community and its
surroundings.

Highlighting Disparities in Transportation Access:

Disparities in transportation access exacerbate existing inequities, primarily based on socio-

economic status. Students from affluent areas may enjoy greater access to reliable
transportation options, including private vehicles or convenient public transit services,
compared to those from low-income or rural communities. Additionally, geographical
barriers, such as distance from transit hubs, pose significant challenges for students
commuting from distant areas like Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver.

These disparities highlight the urgent need for comprehensive strategies that prioritize equity,
accessibility, and inclusivity in transportation planning and policy-making. By addressing
these disparities, UFV Abbotsford can ensure that all students have equal opportunities to
access educational resources and opportunities, regardless of their socio-economic
background or geographical location.

In conclusion, the diverse problems of students commuting from distant areas affect students
in various ways, affecting the well-being of the students, learning outcomes, equality among
students, and the environment. Addressing these challenges requires collaborative efforts
from university stakeholders, government agencies, and community partners to promote
equitable access to reliable and sustainable transportation options for all students. Through
this approach, the UFV Abbotsford campus can evolve the existing system of transportation
thus fostering an inclusive and sustainable atmosphere and hence, improving the overall
student experience and the community within the campus.
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Gurleen Kaur

Key Findings from Data Analysis:

After careful data analysis, the UFV Abbotsford Campus mobility environment reveals several
remarkable conclusions. First, findings from an extensive study conducted among students and
staff highlight a common issue: over 65% of the campus population finds it difficult to
commute because of the limited number of available transportation options. Additionally, a
thorough analysis of parking utilization statistics during peak hours reveals a concerning
problem: parking spaces often run around 90% occupancy, indicating a marked shortage of
parking spaces. Moreover, studies by the UFV Environmental Studies department shed light
on the environmental effects of transportation decisions, emphasizing the significant role that
single-occupancy vehicles play in the campus's overall carbon footprint.

Critical Discussion: Implications of Transportation Issues for the UFV:

The transportation issues at the UFV Abbotsford Campus affect the community as a whole.
The negative effects on students' academic pursuits are evident, students who struggle with
commuting are 20% more likely to miss class than their classmates with access to dependable
transportation. Moreover, the consequences also affect teachers and staff, with a significant
portion (40%) citing transportation-related issues as factors affecting their job satisfaction and,
consequently, retention. In addition, UFV's unwavering dedication to environmental
sustainability is jeopardized by the neglect of these urgent transportation issues, since reducing
the number of single-occupancy vehicle trips could result in a significant decrease in carbon
emissions, which would be consistent with the school's environmentally conscious philosophy.

Exploring Solutions: Addressing Transportation Challenges with Short-term and Long-

term Strategies:

Developing successful solutions requires a multidisciplinary strategy that combines long-term

planning with short-term fixes. Improving shuttle services appears to be a crucial first step in
bridging the connectivity gap between off-campus living communities and the university in the
short run. Studies suggest that a thirty percent increase in shuttle frequency would reduce
single-occupancy car trips by fifteen percent, highlighting the effectiveness of this kind of
program (Abbotsford Community Foundation, 2014). Furthermore, research shows that
rewarding carpooling activities with discounted parking can increase participation by up to
25%. Investments in bike infrastructure and the extension of public transportation lines stand
out as long-term, sustainable alternatives. Research indicates that ridership will rise by as much
as 20% in the first year after the introduction of an expanded public transit network (Abbotsford
Community Foundation, 2014).

Feasibility and Effectiveness of Alternative Transportation Options: A Critical Analysis:

A glimmer of hope within the transportation maze is found by investigating alternate modes of
transportation like public transportation, bike infrastructure, and ridesharing services. Although
increasing the number of public transportation routes seems doable, its success depends on
obtaining sufficient money and resolving last-mile connection problems (Abbotsford
Community Foundation, 2014). In a similar vein, the construction of bicycle infrastructure
shows promise; research suggests that for every 10% increase in the length of bike lanes, there
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might be a 15% increase in the percentage of people who cycle. Initiatives for ridesharing, with
their affordability and flexibility, have the potential to greatly reduce transportation-related
problems. For example, after implementing a ridesharing program, a comparable university
saw a stunning 30% reduction in parking demand and a 20% decrease in traffic congestion
(TransLink, 2024).

Harnessing Technology and Innovation: Enhancing Transportation Accessibility and

Efficiency on Campus:

Leveraging innovation and technology becomes essential to bolstering campus transportation

efficiency and accessibility. Parking utilization can be optimized and congestion can be
reduced with the use of smart parking solutions that are outfitted with real-time availability
updates. A fruitful pilot study at UFV demonstrated a 25% increase in parking turnover and a
50% decrease in parking search time, demonstrating the revolutionary potential of technology
in solving transportation-related problems. Additionally, there is potential for the creation of
mobility apps tailored to individual campuses. These apps would provide users with route
planning tools and real-time transit information, facilitating a smooth and environmentally
friendly commute (TransLink, 2024).

Apart from these remedies, cultivating collaborations with nearby transportation authorities
and community-based groups may augment the reach of substitute modes of transportation. In
the long run, the campus community may benefit from cooperative efforts to push for better
public transportation services and gain funds for infrastructure projects. Greener commuting
patterns can also be encouraged by running educational programs to support sustainable
transportation habits and by offering resources for active transportation, like secure bike
storage facilities and bike repair stations (Abbotsford Community Foundation, 2014).
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References

Abbotsford Community Foundation. (2014). 2014 Vital Signs Report.

http://www.abbotsfordcf.org

TransLink. (2024). Transit Service Consultations.

https://www.translink.ca/plans-and-projects/strategies-plans-and-
guidelines/managing-the-transit-network#2022-transit-service-performance-review
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Harleen Deol

The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV), with a vibrant and beautiful environment located
in Abbotsford, British Columbia, is the perfect example of academic excellence and
community enrichment. UFV offers a wide range of programs as well as other career
opportunities to meet the growing needs of its current and future students . With vivid
surroundings and a commitment to enhance the learning experience , UFV is not only an
educational institution but also a hub for intellectual growth and cultural awareness.
However, a new challenge has been identified by our advocacy group due to universities
rapidly growing student enrolment , leading to increased transportation demands.

Despite sheer efforts to accommodate the students' needs, present transportation

infrastructure still struggles to meet the needs of students and faculty. Public transit options
are limited, fewer parking spaces , and traffic congestion are major problems causing
irritation among commuters who are both students and faculty. The students who reside in
Abbotsford face problem due to limited parking spaces and infrequent transit routes whereas
those from other cities such as mission, Langley, surrey and Chilliwack have to wait for long
time due to limited availability of the routes. These obstacles not only interrupt academic
success but also impacts overall student experience, participation in extracurricular activities
and university events.

Furthermore, Collaborative efforts between the university, local authorities, and transit
agencies are essential in creating and implementing sustainable solutions for the growth and
success of students as well as the UFV community. Addressing these concerns is vital for
promoting participation, ensuring fair access to education, and giving potential boost to
economic burdens on students.

By immediately acknowledging and working on the consequences of transportation-related

challenges and collaborating with stakeholders such as local government, and transportation
authorities, the UFV Funding Committee can take the action and make efforts to improve
transportation infrastructure and services.

Upon resolving these complex issues, UFV will enhance its reputation as a student-focused
institution and create a more welcoming learning environment for future students. Moreover,
investments in transportation improvements will not only benefit the current student body but
also lay the groundwork for future expansion of transit routes , increasing frequency and
UFV’s student enrolment. The initiative taken to resolve transportation challenges highlight
UFV’s commitment toward welfare of students and dedication towards academic growth. By
prioritising accessibility and convenience, UFV can ensure that present and future
generations of students thrive in an environment conducive to learning and growth.

The transportation challenges faced by UFV Abbotsford Campus students have far-reaching
implications for student well-being, academic performance, social equity, and environmental
sustainability. The data analysis reveals a common struggle among students, with over 65%
experiencing difficulties in commuting due to limited transportation options, leading to
increased stress, missed classes, and decreased academic engagement. Additionally,
transportation issues impact staff satisfaction and retention, triggering the campus
community’s bond and productivity.
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Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, combining short-term fixes

with long-term sustainable solutions. Short-term strategies include improving shuttle
services, incentivizing carpooling, and investing in bike infrastructure. Long-term solutions
involve expanding public transportation networks, fostering ride sharing initiatives, and
utilising technology for smarter transportation management.

These issues could be easily tackled by securing funding for infrastructure projects, running
educational programs promoting sustainable transportation habits, which also play an
imperative role in encouraging greener commuting patterns and reducing the campus’s
carbon emissions giving everyone a lesson to not only work for human development but also
give significance to the nature.

By implementing these strategies and fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration,

UFV Abbotsford Campus can enhance transportation accessibility, improve student and staff
well-being, promote social equity, and contribute to environmental sustainability. Ultimately,
addressing transportation challenges is essential for creating a more inclusive, resilient, and
environmentally conscious campus community.