News Metrolinx partners with ONxpress to transform GO service Brian, January 25, 2024January 25, 2024 Metrolinx has partnered with ONxpress for GO Transit’s overhaul, aiming for enhanced operations from 2025. This includes frequent, faster train services and new technologies in the expanding GTHA region, as part of the $11-billion GO Expansion initiative to address congestion and growing travel demands. Maintenance and operational improvements are expected for several stations to benefit the over 12 million inhabitants anticipated by 2041. Continue Reading
News Scarborough busway to cost $12 million more, not open until 2026 Brian, January 24, 2024January 24, 2024 The Scarborough Rapid Transit conversion to a busway, now costing $67.9 million, is delayed until late 2026. The funds could buy 50 articulated buses, potentially enhancing the transit network. Recommendations include adjusting bus frequencies, revamping routes like the 25 and 925 for better service, and adding bus lanes for long-term transit improvements across the city, in anticipation of the Scarborough subway extension. Higher ridership and fare revenue from these changes could support future transit expansion. Continue Reading
News Hazel McCallion line to be extended to Brampton GO station Brian, January 23, 2024January 23, 2024 The Ford government is extending the Hazel McCallion LRT into downtown Mississauga and Brampton, reversing previous cuts. Criticized for transit project delays, the move is seen as a “game changer” by local officials. Brampton considers a hybrid LRT extension to the GO station despite rising tunnel costs to $2.8 billion over the $933 million above-ground option. This expansion aims to boost connectivity, increase ridership, and improve transit efficiency across the region. Continue Reading
BC Transit services in Metro Vancouver impacted by labor dispute Brian, January 22, 2024January 22, 2024 In Vancouver, 180 workers from CUPE Local 4500 are striking, leading to a two-day shutdown of certain TransLink services, with a full resumption expected Wednesday. While alternative transit services remain operational, the union stands firm on its wage increase demands, rejecting the employer’s latest offer and considering further picketing actions. Continue Reading
Ontario How can the TTC improve? Brian, January 16, 2024February 12, 2024 Reece Martin from RMTransit suggests optimizing TTC routes by removing redundant bus stops and introducing express buses with fewer stops for faster service. Brian then compares Toronto’s Route 9 and the faster express Route 99 in Vancouver. Proposal includes re-routing and consolidating services in Scarborough, modifying the 52 service line, and leveraging GO line expansions. Integration strategies also aim to ease congestion on the Yonge line and support future urban growth in the Port Lands, with efficient, ready-to-go bus routes coalescing with upcoming infrastructure like the East Harbour station. Continue Reading
Ontario YRT. Good system that needs work, or bad system needing overhaul Brian, January 9, 2024January 9, 2024 The bus system in York Region faces growing problems due to reduced frequency, contracted services, and outdated scheduling. Proposed improvements for 2024 appear insufficient, with irregular frequencies and limited connectivity causing inconvenience for riders. The region needs a comprehensive overhaul, including simplified scheduling and increased frequency, to encourage car owners to utilize public transit. Continue Reading
BC Could Translink expand to Whistler and Hope and succeed? Brian, January 4, 2024January 4, 2024 The content discusses the potential for Translink to take over public transit operations from Metro Vancouver to Squamish, Whistler, and beyond. It highlights challenges such as funding, bus shortages, and route modifications. The author proposes funding options and route adjustments to improve transit service. The expansion is seen as vital due to population growth and road congestion. Continue Reading
BC Translink bus operator issues 72 hour strike notice for supervisor and other non bus driving positions Brian, January 3, 2024January 8, 2024 The union representing 180+ transit workers in Metro Vancouver has issued a 72-hour strike notice amid negotiations for better working conditions and compensation. The strike, starting with an overtime ban, will impact all operations in the Coast Mountain system. The union hopes for fair negotiations to avoid service disruptions. The last collective agreement expired in December 2022. Continue Reading
News O-Train line 1 in Ottawa had a partial shutdown on January 2 Brian, January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 There was a 5-hour partial shutdown on the O-Train in Ottawa due to concrete debris found in the tunnel at St-Laurent Station. This adds to a series of issues since its 2019 launch, including derailments, door problems, weather damage, and service outages. Today’s shutdown reflects ongoing challenges with the O-Train. Continue Reading
Ontario Durham Region Transit making significant changes today Brian, January 2, 2024January 2, 2024 I live in Durham region and today DRT made several changes made to the schedules throughout the region. The reason for a lot of these changes is the fact there were several buses overcrowded on certain routes heading towards the Amazon facility and Durham College. Buses were running late a… Continue Reading