Dear Supporters,
As many of you know by now, it is with deep disappointment that we inform you of the recent developments regarding the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel Bus service. On February 21, 2025, Windsor City Council voted 6-5 in favour of overturning Mayor Drew Dilkens' veto on the continuation of this essential service. However, this fell short of the required two-thirds majority (at least 8 votes) needed to override the mayor’s decision. As a result, the Tunnel Bus service will be eliminated.
What This Means for Windsor
This decision will have far-reaching consequences:
- Cross-Border Commuters: Many residents who rely on this service for work, education, and leisure will now have no affordable, public transit option between Windsor and Detroit.
- Local Economy: Windsor businesses that depend on cross-border customers will suffer.
- Tourism: Detroiters and American visitors who use the Tunnel Bus to visit Windsor may stop coming altogether.
- Environmental Impact: The removal of this service will lead to increased car traffic, worsening congestion and pollution.
How You Can Take Action
This isn’t over. We must hold our elected officials accountable for this decision and remind them that eliminating public transit options is unacceptable.
Email Mayor Drew Dilkens and City Councillors who voted in line with our mayor to express your disappointment and let them know that they have lost your vote for failing to protect this vital service.
Email Template You Can Use:
Subject: You Lost My Vote – Save Public Transit
Dear [Councillor’s Name] and Mayor Dilkens,
I am extremely disappointed by the decision to eliminate the Windsor-Detroit Tunnel Bus service. This decision harms commuters, businesses, and the environment, and shows a complete disregard for the needs of Windsor residents.
By voting to end this service, you have ignored the voices of those who rely on public transportation and failed to invest in our city’s future.
Because of this decision, you have lost my vote in the next election. I will not support representatives who prioritize short-term cost-cutting over long-term community benefits.
I urge you to reconsider and explore solutions to maintain or replace this essential service.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information (Optional)]
Here’s Where to Send Your Emails:
Mayor Drew Dilkens: mayoro@citywindsor.ca
Ward 4 Councillor Mark McKenzie: mmckenzie@citywindsor.ca
Ward 5 Councillor Ed Sleiman: esleiman@citywindsor.ca
Ward 6 Councillor Jo-Anne Gignac: joagignac@citywindsor.ca
Ward 10 Councillor Jim Morrison: jmorrison@citywindsor.ca
Keep the Pressure On
The only way to prevent further cuts to public transportation is to hold our leaders accountable. Share this update, encourage others to email, and remind elected officials that they serve the people – not just the mayor’s agenda.
We will continue to fight for a Windsor that values public transit, accessibility, and economic growth.
Thank you for standing up for our city.