In partnership with Metrolinx, the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) line is a 36-kilometre rapid transit corridor connecting Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering and Scarborough.

DSBRT Map

Designed to deliver faster, more reliable service along Highway 2, the DSBRT will transform how people travel across Durham Region and into Toronto. 

 It will provide:

  • Two-way service every five minutes.
  • Dedicated bus lanes and priority signals.
  • Time savings of 20 minutes for transit trips along the corridor.

The DSBRT project was assessed under the Transit Project Assessment Process (TPAP), in accordance with Ontario Regulation 231/08. The project aims to create seamless connections with local transit networks across Durham Region and into the City of Toronto. It will provide more flexibility in transit options.

For more information visit Metrolinx for a project overview and updates.

What is Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)?

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) is a bus-based transit system that provides fast, frequent, reliable, and cost-effective transit through dedicated bus-only lanes marked by red asphalt. These are special lanes on the road that are only for BRT buses. They’re painted red so drivers know not to use them. This helps buses avoid traffic and stay on schedule. Each bus shelter is built to serve buses going in one direction—either eastbound or westbound.

BRT can carry more people and can offer more frequent and faster service than conventional bus services.
What is the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT)?

The Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) is a proposed bus rapid transit corridor that spans approximately 36 kilometres, connecting Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Scarborough.

This project aims to improve transit efficiency and reliability along the Highway 2 - Ellesmere Road corridor, providing seamless connections between multiple municipalities and key destinations such as employment hubs, schools, and commercial centres.

For more information regarding the DSBRT project please visit:https://www.metrolinx.com/en/projects-and-programs/durham-scarborough-brt
What is the Highway 2 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT)? When will BRT construction start and how long will it take to complete?

Through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), the Region of Durham will construct Phase 1 of the DSBRT segments through Pickering and Ajax on Highway 2.

Construction is anticipated to begin in 2025 on the following segments:
 Why is the curbside BRT moving to median BRT on Highway 2?

The curbside BRT on Highway 2 is being relocated to median BRT lanes to enhance operational efficiency and reliability.

 

Median lanes reduce conflicts with turning traffic, offer dedicated lanes with fewer interruptions, and provide easier access to central stations, resulting in faster and more reliable travel times for transit riders.
 What are the benefits of median Bus Rapid Transit?

Median Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems provide numerous advantages. They enhance travel efficiency by utilizing dedicated infrastructure such as bus-only lanes and prioritizing traffic signals, resulting in quicker and more streamlined operations.

BRT systems boost the economy by generating employment opportunities, fostering businesses, and encouraging housing development. They also support sustainable travel methods, which help alleviate traffic congestion and lower greenhouse gas emissions.

BRTs can enhance road safety with better street design, dedicated pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure, and improved driver behavior.
Which buses will use the dedicated transit lanes?

This project builds on the existing DRT transit service, which currently runs between downtown Oshawa and the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus.

DRT buses will use the dedicated median transit lanes, while local transit routes will continue to operate curbside, ensuring convenient access for businesses and residents along Highway 2.

Furthermore, it is anticipated that GO and TTC buses, as well as emergency vehicles, will be permitted to use the dedicated BRT lanes once they become operational.
Where will the Median BRT stations be built?

Through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), the first median BRT stations will be constructed along Highway 2 in Pickering and Ajax.

These stations will be located at:

  • Whites Road
  • Fairport Road
  • Dixie Road
  • Liverpool Road
  • Glenanna Road
  • Valley Farm Road
  • Brock Road
  • Westney Road
  • Chapman Drive
  • Harwood Avenue
  • Salem Road

These stations will feature distinctive branding and a modern, bright design. The selection of these median BRT stations was based on factors such as passenger demand, accessibility, connections to local transit routes, and proximity to major destinations.

Full list of bus stations proposed under the DSBRT project. 
Will BRT stations be fully accessible to individuals with disabilities?

Yes, BRT stations will be fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.
How much will it cost to ride the BRT?
Transit riders will continue to pay regular DRT fares.
What should I expect during construction on Highway 2?

Access to local businesses along the corridor will remain open at all times.

During construction, pedestrians may be redirected to opposing sidewalks and crossings. Temporary traffic congestion and potential short-term delays may be experienced at times. Heavy equipment and construction activities may result in short-term noise, dust, and vibration. Lane restrictions will be necessary to accommodate construction. 
How do drivers reach the opposite side of the road?

Drivers can reach the opposite side of the road using designated crossing points such as U-turns at intersections.

 

These crossing points are strategically placed to ensure safe and efficient access across the median.
How will pedestrians and cyclists be able to easily cross major streets (Highway 2) and get to the station in the centre of the road?

Pedestrians and cyclists can cross major streets and access the median station via the intersection crosswalk or cross ride.


The goal is to extend pedestrian crossing times to ensure everyone can safely cross the entire distance of the crosswalk.
How will drivers know to stay out of the BRT lanes?

Several features make the BRT lanes highly visible, including red pavement and “bus only” pavement markings. These features are expected to help ensure that drivers stay out of the BRT lanes, allowing buses to move efficiently and safely.

 
Will there be separate signals for cyclists at the intersection?
Yes, cyclists will have dedicated bike signals to safely cross at intersections.
Where will the cycle track / multi-use pathways (MUP) be located?
 The asphalt cycle track / multi-use pathways (MUP) will be located off-road within the boulevard with standard signs and pavement markings.

Highway 2 Bus Rapid Transit Construction

Through the Investing in Canada infrastructure Program (ICIP), the Regional Municipality of Durham will be constructing Phase 1 of DSBRT segments through Pickering, Ajax and Whitby.

List of Durham Region Led Projects:

Kingston Road Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Steeple Hill to Merritton Road
Kingston Road Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Merritton Road to Dixie Road
Kingston Road Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Dixie Road to Bainbridge Drive
Kingston Road Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Rotherglen Road to Harwood Avenue
Kingston Road Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Harwood Avenue to Wicks Drive
Dundas Street Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): Lake Ridge Road intersection Widening.

Additional Resources

Durham Region Construction and Your Business – Construction and Your Business - Region of Durham

Durham Region Public Works Project Website - Public Works Projects (durham.ca)

Metrolinx DSBRT EA Website - Metrolinx - Durham-Scarborough