Back to SearchWhitby, Ontario – On Wednesday, December 3, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:
- Honouring those who serve and have served on home ice – DRT Sponsored Oshawa Generals game night: DRT participated in the Oshawa Generals military appreciation game on November 9, helping honour Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) members and raise awareness of fare-free transit during the Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign. TEC Chair Marilyn Crawford joined three DRT ambassadors for the ceremonial puck drop, representing DRT’s ongoing commitment to recognition and community connection.
- Staying connected - extension of radio contract: TEC approved a contract extension for the Metrolinx radio network, ensuring continued access to reliable, uninterrupted communication across DRT operations. The three-year base term provides the stability needed to support day-to-day service, while giving DRT the flexibility to explore and evaluate emerging radio communication technologies in the market.
- Fare-free service on New Year’s Eve: DRT will provide fare-free transit from December 31, 2025 at 7 p.m. to January 1, 2026 4 a.m. on all services.
- Federal transit funding: The 2025 federal budget transitioned funding from the Canada Public Transit Fund to a new Building Communities Strong Fund. While details are still emerging, DRT is expected to receive about $5.3 million annually under the baseline stream.
- Saving transit customers on transfers between transit agencies - One Fare program is extended: The Ontario government has extended the One Fare program in the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA) for another two years, saving some customers up to $1,600 annually. For more information, visit the Ontario government’s news release on this program.
Quotes
“Durham Region is growing, and evolving transit to meet that growth is a top priority. Continued investment in DRT is shaping a network for residents and visitors that is frequent, reliable, and accessible.”
- John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer
“As 2025 comes to a close, DRT’s fare-free transit on New Year’s Eve reflects our commitment to supporting safe, accessible travel for our community. By giving residents a responsible alternative to driving, we’re advancing Durham Region’s Vision Zero commitment to eliminate serious injuries and fatalities on our roads. This year has been marked by meaningful progress: new initiatives, innovative programs, and fresh ideas that continue to shape a more reliable and connected transit system. I want to recognize and thank all DRT staff for their dedication throughout the year. Your efforts have played a vital role in advancing service for residents across Durham Region.”
- Regional Councillor Marilyn Crawford, Chair of the Transit Executive Committee
“With 2026 on the horizon, our annual service plans guide DRT’s continued focus on improving reliability, strengthening connections, and ensuring transit evolves with the needs of our residents and visitors. With sustained investment and strong funding partnerships, we will be able to add new buses, enhance routes, expand service, and strengthen connections across Durham Region."
- Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit
To view the complete TEC agenda, visit DurhamRegionTransit.com/TEC.
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