Transit Executive Committee: Safe Driver Awards and the Inclusive Community Grant

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

• Safe Driver Awards: On May 26, 2021, DRT Operators will be recognized virtually at Regional Council for their dedication to safety and efforts to ensure that the roads in Durham Region remain safe for residents and visitors. For 2020, a total of 31 Operators are celebrating safe driving milestones of five, 10, 15, 20 and 30 years without a single preventable collision. These milestones are even more impressive when factoring in the extraordinary challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Inclusive Community Grant: DRT recently received funding from the Ontario Inclusive Community Grants program to improve access to safe, affordable public transit for seniors, reduce social isolation, and maintain the dignity of older adults and people with disabilities. Nine transit service kiosks will be installed in local retirement residences, long-term care homes, and community service locations. These installations are expected to reduce outdoor wait times in harsh weather conditions, while providing enough time for residents to arrive at the bus stop safely and securely.

Quotes

“The Inclusive Community Grant is vital in ensuring that as many people as possible have access to safe and reliable transit in Durham Region. It will enable DRT to continue to remove barriers for those who need access to transit information in various and alternate channels.”

- John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer

“Safety continues to be a high priority for our communities as DRT Operators drive millions of kilometres each year without a preventable collision. Thank you and keep up the great work!”

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

“DRT values the safety of all customers, staff and communities. Thanks to all our staff for their continued commitment to safety, and to these remarkable operators for achieving their safe driving milestones, while following enhanced safety protocols during the pandemic.”

- Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit

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For more information, please contact Corporate Communications.