Ontario How to improve the Streetcar network in Toronto Brian, February 12, 2024February 12, 2024 On November 17 2023 the first of the additional streetcars entered into service. Car 4604, is the first of the new order. Continue Reading
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
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
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
News Hamilton LRT progress as of December 4, 2023 Brian, December 4, 2023December 4, 2023 Metrolinx hosted a virtual event about the LRT’s progress, discussing project updates, design changes, and the 2020 Building Transit Faster Act. Hamilton city plans to convert Main St to a two-way road, leading to a redesigned Main Street Bridge over the 403 for LRT. Initial construction steps and property acquisitions have begun, causing some concerns about displacements. However, new residential developments along the LRT route are also proposed. Continue Reading