Winnipeg's river taxi service back in the flow

Winnipeg's water taxis are finally operating after being in dry docks for two months because of high water.

The River Spirit Water Bus service launched Saturday, bringing relief to officials at The Forks as well as customers of the popular attraction.

"As we know, parking can be difficult around The Forks in the summer, so it's great when the water buses are up and running. A lot of people came out and started using the water bus already [on the weekend] so we know it's popular," said Paul Jordan, chief operating officer of The Forks.

It took a while for the river levels to subside from spring flooding. Just as the River Spirit fleet which usually hits the waterways in May was about to launch for the year, the rains came. Swollen by downpours in Winnipeg as well as a deluge south of the U.S. border, the levels on the Red and Assiniboine rivers increased to three metres above normal level.

The fast-flowing water kicked up riverbank debris, making it hazardous for boaters and causing police to order all public boat launches closed and barricaded. The Forks river walk, which runs from the Manitoba legislature to Provencher Bridge, has also been under water for a prolonged time this year.

The delay for the water bus and the submerged walkway took theirtoll on tourism at The Forks, whose retail tenants rely on the peak summer season to bring in the customers.

"It's really disappointing. We've got three months to make money here at the Forks and it's tough when these big key amenities are gone, like the water bus and the river walk," said Jordan. "We really rely on them in the summer, so it's tough when they're not around."

The water buses provide service every 15 minutes to docks located near the Corydon Avenue Village, Osborne Village, the Manitoba Legislative Building, The Forks, Norwood, the French Quarter and the Exchange District.

One-way fare is $3 whilea day pass with unlimited use is available for $15.