“On August 13, 2013 the City of Winnipeg launched a mobile app that allows people to connect with City. The 311 app provides users with the ability to do any of the following with their iPhone, iPad or Android device:
Report a service request to 311 Send photographs relating to the service request Check on the status of the service request submitted Connect with other City services such as licensing your dog or planning your Transit route.
This app offers citizens another way to connect with Winnipeg 311.
The information and photos will help the City prioritize and efficiently respond to citizen requests. The service requests that will be available are:
Potholes
Sidewalk repairs
Graffiti on public property
Dead animal removal
Transit – Lost property
Transit – Shelter issues
Snow removal
Sanding… “
Click the link below for more information about the 311 Service App:
http://www.winnipeg.ca/Interhom/contact/app.stm
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What does this mean for sidewalk & crosswalks you may ask? Well the fact that you can report sidewalks in need of repairs is just the beginning. With this app you can report heaved, crumbling, cracked, and slippery sidewalks. Once you pick what problem the sidewalk has you will have to add details. These details are the location of the sidewalk, photos of the sidewalk need of repair (6 photos max), description of request, and type of sidewalk problem (as mentioned earlier), also have to provide information of you the reporter.
The issues that I come across to be troublesome for me are the fact that there aren’t enough types of sidewalk problems listed within the app. My way of working around is picking one of the options by just adding details of what the actual problem is within description of request section. When it comes to crosswalks with high curbs, it’s sometimes a bit tricky to explain to 311 what exactly you’re wanting done. This is why there should be a curb/crosswalk section and would like to see improvements to 311 in the future. In conclusion the 311 app is a great tool to use if you don’t want the hassle of being on hold on the phone all the time. Report on the run, anywhere, anytime! So get out and start reporting because we need as much people reporting on sidewalks as possible. Together we can make change to our sidewalk infrastructure by picking up you’re phone for 311.
Winnipeg's Sidewalks & Crosswalks 