Back to SearchWhitby, Ontario – On Wednesday, September 4, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:
- September service enhancements: Effective September 3, 2024, DRT introduced new routes, enhanced scheduled service to some areas previously served by On Demand, improved connections to GO Transit, and invested in improving reliability. View these service updates at DurhamRegionTransit.com/september2024.
- First battery electric buses: DRT received its first six battery-electric buses as part of its fleet electrification efforts. These buses will be deployed on high-demand routes with plans to collect data for future electrification phases. For more information, DurhamRegionTransit.com/ElectricBus.
- On Demand service collaboration: DRT partnered with the University of Toronto's Transit Analytics Lab to study On Demand transit services. The research to date highlighted factors that drive ridership.
- PRESTO Apple Wallet launch: On July 16, 2024, PRESTO launched in Apple Wallet across several transit agencies, including DRT. Customers can now tap and ride transit with their iPhone or Apple Watch. It offers benefits similar to the classic card, with additional features like real-time updates and instant fund loading. The addition of Apple Wallet means customers have more cost effective options than ever to manage and pay their fare across the region.
- July 2024 ridership milestone: DRT is proud to announce a remarkable 20 per cent growth in year-to-date ridership through July 2024 compared to 2019 and a 29 per cent increase over 2023. As demand continues to rise, DRT remains focused on recruiting and training new staff to deliver the 44,405 additional service hours approved in the 2024 budget.
Quotes
“The launch of our first battery-electric buses marks an exciting step forward in our fleet electrification journey, demonstrating our dedication to a cleaner, greener future. I applaud the DRT team on their hard work and commitment to improving public transit for residents of Durham Region.”
- John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer
“Collaboration and partnerships are crucial for Durham Region Transit. We are excited to collaborate with the University of Toronto’s Transit Analytics Lab. Their research to date has provided valuable insights into how our OnDemand services can better serve our communities.”
- Regional Councillor Marilyn Crawford, Chair of the Transit Executive Committee
“Surpassing one million riders in the month of July 2024 marks a historic milestone for Durham Region Transit, reflecting the significant and growing demand for our services. It's clear that more residents are choosing DRT as their preferred mode of transportation, and we are excited to continue building on this momentum.”
- Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit
To view the complete TEC agenda, visit this link.
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Media inquiries:
The Regional Municipality of Durham:
Corporate Communications
905-668-4113 extension 2383
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