The WindsorEssex Community Foundation has released its 2015 Vital Signs survey to find out what Windsor and Essex County residents think is good — and what needs work — in their community.
In last year’s survey, Windsor and region got a failing grade for its public transportation and Ds for art and culture, sustainable environment, building our community, citizen engagement and health and wellness.
Lisa Kolody, executive director of the foundation, said this year people can fill out the survey in paper or online.
The information collected is matched with national data and results. Once those are compiled, aspects of life in Windsor and Essex County are given a grade: from A to F.
Last year’s poor grades led to a list of priorities for the community: access to locally grown and affordable food, support for community gardens, improved bus service and more bike and walking trails.
That fits in well with the Essex Region Conservation Foundation’s goals, said Richard Wyma. He said there are plans are to expand bike trails with the goal of eventually connecting Windsor to the county.
Carolyn Warkentin, executive director of the South Essex Community Council, said the survey also highlighted issues that affect communities such as Leamington. There, having regional transit can mean access to a job, to healthcare, or to an education.
She said a pilot project transporting students from the county to St. Clair College is now expanding to offer pick-ups in several other county communities.
Kolody said the 2015 survey results will be released Oct. 6. Residents can fill out a paper copy of the survey, or access it online at wecf.ca/vitalsigns.html.
