Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit

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.

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

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 overview, visit Metrolinx.

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

Anticipated construction timelines for the following segments as follows:

• Rotherglen Road to Harwood Avenue in the Town of Ajax (Anticipated construction: 2025-2027)
• Harwood Avenue to Wicks Drive in the Town of Ajax (Anticipated construction: 2025-2026)
• Steeple Hill to Merritton Road in the City of Pickering (Anticipated construction: 2025-2027)
• Dixie Road to Bainbridge Drive in the City of Pickering (Anticipated construction: 2025-2028)

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.

This project builds on the existing Durham Region Transit (DRT) 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 Kingston (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.

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

These stations will be located at:

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

Yes, BRT stations will be fully accessible to individuals with disabilities.

Transit riders will continue to pay regular DRT fares.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

Yes, cyclists will have dedicated bike signals to safely cross at intersections.

The asphalt cycle track and multi-use pathways will be located off-road within the boulevard with standard signs and pavement markings.