Highlights from the November 2025 Transit Executive Committee meeting

Whitby, Ontario – On Wednesday, November 5, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:

• Savings for DRT customers: Ontario’s One Fare program eliminates double fares for PRESTO users transferring between the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC), DRT, York Region Transit (YRT), Brampton Transit, MiWay, and GO Transit. In its first year, more than 38.2 million One Fare transfers were completed across participating agencies, which generated $1.4 million in savings for DRT riders. That’s an average of 29,000 monthly DRT boardings linked to One Fare trips. Through One Fare, the province reimburses participating transit agencies for fare revenue losses. DRT continues to work closely with the Ministry of Transportation and looks forward to the Province of Ontario extending the One Fare program.
• Proposed fare adjustments to keep wheels in motion: DRT continues to experience financial pressures from inflation and the need to grow the transit network to meet the demands of residents and businesses. DRT is focused on improving service frequency and reliability, scheduling service to new developments across the Region, and making capital investments to keep the aging fleet in a state of good repair. A three per cent fare increase, effective July 1, 2026, will generate an additional $910,000 in revenue, to improve service reliability and fund continued growth. This proposed fare adjustment is the lowest in three years and is intended to balance affordability for customers with the need to maintain reliable service and fund service growth.

• Coming to a high school near you! New Uxbridge High School Ambassadors join DRT: DRT’s High School Ambassador Program continues to grow. At Ajax High School, two student ambassadors continue their work under the guidance of school administration, helping classmates gain confidence in using public transit. The program has now expanded to Uxbridge Secondary School, where two Grade 10 students are leading transit outreach with the support of school leadership.

• Steady strides toward more reliable and convenient transit: DRT continues to improve in key performance areas, with a preventable collision rate 21 per cent better than target, On-Demand on-time performance continuing to exceed 80 per cent, and 100 per cent of planned On-Demand trips were delivered in September.

• DRT wins national award for advancing inclusive transit: On Wednesday, November 5, the Canadian Urban Transportation Association (CUTA) recognized DRT and MiWay for the successful launch of the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program in their communities. Both transit agencies received a corporate award for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion during CUTA’s annual conference. The award highlights the efforts of the transit agencies to create a more equitable and enhanced customer experience for riders with non-visible disabilities to make commuting more inclusive and foster a stronger sense of belonging.

Quotes

“As Durham continues to grow, maintaining a balance between fiscal responsibility and service expansion is essential. The proposed fare adjustment, which is the lowest in three years, reflects the Region’s commitment to keeping transit affordable, while responsibly funding improvements in service and reliability. Investments, such as these, ensure DRT can continue to deliver sustainable, accessible transit options that support residents today and for years to come.”

-       John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“It’s exciting to see the High School Ambassador Program expanding as a great way to engage youth, spark their interest in transit, and strengthen community connections. These young leaders are helping their peers learn about safety, trip planning, and the independence that transit provides. Programs like this not only support future ridership but also empower youth to be part of more sustainable and inclusive transit communities.”

-      Regional Councillor Marilyn Crawford, Chair of the Transit Executive Committee

“As we navigate the pressures of a maturing transit system, we rely on our established standards and strategies for guidance while fostering a culture where staff are encouraged to bring forward creative solutions that enhance the experience of customers. The need to grow the transit service is not disputed, and our vision for DRT remains resolute; the public chooses DRT services because they are convenient and meet their mobility needs.”

-       Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit

To view the complete TEC agenda, visit this link.

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