Both Vision Vancouver and the Coalition of Progressive Electors (COPE) unveiled more of their election platforms over the weekend, promising to focus on safer neighbourhoods and public transit respectively.

Vancouver Mayor Gregor Robertson, who is seeking re-election with Vision Vancouver, announced a "safe, livable neighbourhoods" platform — the party's second policy announcement.

"The livability of Vancouver's neighbourhoods is key to making our city such a great place to live, and Vision Vancouver has a plan to strengthen and expand what makes our city work," he said.

Robertson pledged to create a minimum of 500 new daycare spaces over the next three years, increase funding to hire new police officers and increase funding for Vancouver Fire Rescue Services.

Robertson also took a swipe at rival Suzanne Anton with the Non-Partisan Association (NPA), whose campaign he called "out of touch."

"I'm proud that our plan tackles difficult social issues and looks at new ways to improve the services and support that the city provides," said Robertson.

"Last term, Suzanne Anton and the NPA cancelled the city's child-care committee and ignored seniors. Vision has a clear plan that builds on our work this term and provides a long-term vision for the city, one that will help meet the needs of all of our citizens, young and old."

Bulk-buying transit

Meanwhile, COPE city council candidate Tim Louis pledged to bring down the price of public transit with the creation of a "community pass," or C-pass.

"Transit in Vancouver can be expensive for some. If we want to encourage people to take public transit, we need to make it an attractive, affordable option," said Louis.

The proposal would allow neighbourhoods to invest in the C-pass as a group. The price would be dependent on how many households participate, said Louis.

"It’s a little bit like bulk-buying transit," he said.

"We bulk buy our staple items in order to save money. Public transportation is a staple item for some communities, so let's allow members of those communities to get together, bulk-buy their transit passes for a discounted rate, allow them to save money and encourage sustainable transportation."

COPE also wants to work with city planners to lower minimum parking requirements for some new condominium developments in exchange for providing residents with transit passes.