Highlights from the November 2023 Transit Executive Committee Meeting

Whitby, Ontario – On November 8, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:

• Updates to DRT’s Customer Policies: DRT customer-facing policies have been updated as DRT continues to modernize its service and create a customer experience that is consistent and equitable across services. Launching January 1, 2024, the updated and new policies will be posted at DurhamRegionTransit.com. View a summary of updates in the full report here.
• U-Pass Agreement to extend through 2024-2025 with fare increase: TEC has approved DRT’s U-Pass Agreement for students attending Durham College, Trent University and Ontario Tech University for another year; extending the agreement from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025. The extension will increase the U-Pass fee to $152.85 per semester (currently $150 per semester).
• Fare Integration – Removal of Double Fares Program: The Ministry of Transportation’s (MTO) Fare Integration – Removal of Double Fares Program is intended to remove double fares for customers when connecting between  DRT and the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The program will save transit customers money by eliminating double fares. Under the program, the Province of Ontario will reimburse transit agencies for all lost fare revenue. The program is funded by the Province of Ontario through March 31, 2026. Recognizing this opportunity to save customers money and advance a seamless transit experience across the GTHA, staff will proceed to negotiate and execute an agreement for DRT’s participation in the program.

Quotes

"DRT and other transit agencies are making progress towards creating more seamless transit journeys across the GTHA. Access to frequent and reliable transit service is essential to our vision of a healthy, prosperous community for all.”

-       John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“DRT appreciates riders who choose to travel to their post-secondary classes using public transit. We look forward to supporting students attending Durham College, Trent University and Ontario Tech University by extending the U-Pass program into the 2024-2025 academic year."

-      Marilyn Crawford, Deputy Mayor for the Town of Ajax, and Chair of the Transit Executive Committee for Durham Regional Council

"I’m excited about DRT’s journey. We remain committed to our vision of the public choosing DRT service because it’s convenient and meets their mobility needs. The updates to our customer policies reflect how we continue to strive towards our vision of equitable transit service that is accessible and reliable for all customers and residents across the Region.”

-       Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.