Highlights from the September 2023 Transit Executive Committee Meeting

Whitby, Ontario – On September 6, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:

• Fire at the Raleigh bus depot: TEC members acknowledged DRT's resiliency and ability to quickly adapt and return to regular service after a fire at the Raleigh bus depot on August 16, 2023.
• September service enhancements: On Tuesday, September 5, DRT implemented service changes to reflect the return to school and work following summer vacation. Enhancements include scheduled service to some areas previously served by On Demand, and improved connections to GO Transit. View these service updates at DurhamRegionTransit.com/September2023ServiceUpdates.

• Changes to On Demand: Effective September 3, On Demand customers can book, schedule and track trips through a new mobile application. This new platform will also provide service planners and supervisors with access to new analytics and data.
• DRT Ambassadors: DRT outlined the addition of ambassadors, who joined the team in June. These team members will engage with customers at key stations and terminals, on the network; and participate in various events and forums to promote DRT services, answer questions, and build relationships. They also support DRT’s travel training program for residents who want to build their confidence in using DRT and public transit.
• New Social Services pilot to support vulnerable individuals interacting with DRT: This fall, DRT, in collaboration with the Region of Durham’s Social Services Department, is working on an innovative pilot to fund the equivalent of two outreach workers from the Social Services Outreach program to help assist individuals interacting with, or accessing, transit. This initiative is in place to prioritize the well-being of all individuals accessing transit, including members of the community who face additional barriers in accessing vital services, while enhancing support and assistance to transit staff and other customers.

• Transit Advisory Committee: TEC appointed nominees from the Township of Uxbridge and the Durham Association for Family Resources to the Transit Advisory Committee (TAC). They join members appointed from municipal councils in Ajax, Brock, Clarington, Pickering and Whitby. Representatives from Oshawa and Scugog will be confirmed at a future TEC meeting.

• Updated PRESTO card pricing: Effective August 8, Metrolinx reduced the cost of their PRESTO card to $4, from the previous price of $6. The price charged for a PRESTO card covers manufacturing and distribution costs.

Quotes

“Durham Region is fortunate to have a dedicated and skilled transit team. This was especially evident in their recent efforts to adapt and resume regular service quickly and efficiently following a fire at the Raleigh bus depot. Thank you to DRT for your exceptional efforts to ensure a safe and swift return to full service for DRT customers across the region.” 

-       John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“The social services outreach pilot is a progressive step forward in recognizing the connection between vulnerable populations, and the need for professional support and assistance in the community.”

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

“The new Ambassador role enables DRT to enhance face to face engagement with customers and the communities we serve. We need to be there to listen, share timely information, support customers through changes, and promote DRT and public transit. In just three months we are already seeing the positive impact of the enhanced engagement with communities across the Region.”

-       Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.