Transit Executive Committee: Hybrid buses; Electric bus pilot; Updated surveillance system; Transition to PRESTO from ACCESS Pass

Whitby, Ontario – On September 7, members of the Durham Region Transit Executive Committee (TEC) met to discuss various Durham Region Transit (DRT) initiatives and updates. Details and highlights include:

• Hybrid buses: DRT is in the process of receiving 10 diesel electric hybrid buses, which are expected to be in service this fall.
• Electric bus pilot: As part of the DRT electric bus pilot DRT will purchase a total of six buses from the top-ranked respondents from the request for proposals that was released in May 2022. The buses are expected to be delivered in early 2024. This initiative is aligned with Durham Region’s Corporate Climate Change Action Plan, and will support the approved DRT fleet electrification plan.
• Updated surveillance system policy: In 2013, DRT PULSE buses were the first set of vehicles to install video and audio recording systems. Since then, a new surveillance system has been installed on all DRT vehicles. Following an internal review in May 2022, and to align with the new technology, revsions were made to reflect emerging processes. The revised policy was approved at the meeting.
• Transition to PRESTO for ACCESS Pass holders: In October 2022, Ontario Disability Support Program and Ontario Works clients will transition to using DRT’s Transit Assistance Program (TAP), offered through PRESTO, as the paper ACCESS Pass will be discontinued. This transition has been in progress since May 2022. The first 1,500 customers who make the switch to TAP will receive a free PRESTO card.

Quotes

“We look forward to DRT’s hybrid buses being in service this fall. Supporting the Regional Corporate Climate Change Action Plan is always top of mind, and this is one of many ways DRT is making a difference. The use of hybrid buses will enhance DRT’s already great service into one that is even better for our environment.”

-        John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“Keeping DRT’s customers and employees safe is always a top priority. We are pleased to implement policy changes to our surveillance system that reflects industry best practices in transit safety.”

-        Shaun Collier, Mayor of Ajax and Chair of the Transit Executive Committee

“With the integration of hybrid buses into our fleet we are already looking towards further reducing our carbon footprint as we move forward with the procurement of electric buses. I am pleased that DRT continues to remain on schedule to achieve this step in our E-Mission Zero goals.”

-        Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit 

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.