On June 27, Durham Regional Transit Commission (DRT) is making improvements to several routes, which will introduce more frequent, direct, two-way, and simplified transit services across the Region. In total, 43 routes will be adjusted. The June changes will position DRT to be the most attractive transportation option for residents thinking of making the switch from a car, as well as make life easier for existing riders.
New customers are encouraged to give DRT a try and leave the car at home. June improvements ensure that DRT’s transit network will be simpler and easier-to-use than ever before. In the lead up to the June 27 changes, existing customers are reminded to check their route and schedule.
All DRT customers are also reminded that starting June 25, there will be schedule changes on the Lakeshore East, Lakeshore West, Barrie, Richmond Hill, and Stouffville GO Train lines and on some GO Bus routes. Details and new schedules will be available on GO Transit's website, the week of June 6.
Ajax will see several changes including:
- Introduction of two-way service on all routes.
- Implementation of a simplified and more grid-like bus network that is easily expandable to new-growth areas.
- A new connection from south Ajax to PULSE and commercial destinations on Kingston Rd., as well as continuous service on Rossland Rd., between the Harmony Rd. and Pickering Parkway Terminals.
Bowmanville’s new network features:
- Two-way service on portions of the network, where possible. Two-way service will grow as resources become available.
- Service to existing new-growth areas and the foundation for further expansion as new development occurs.
- Transfers now possible with GO Transit service at the Bowmanville Park and Ride.
Municipalities in northern Durham will also see improvements:
- Enhanced coverage within the Port Perry and Uxbridge urban areas.
- Route 950 replacing Routes 701 and 801.
o All day, Monday to Friday service for trips within the Port Perry and Uxbridge urban areas.
- Route 601 modified to serve Manilla, Wilfrid, Udora, and Leaskdale.
o Connections available to York Region Transit (YRT).
- New Route 960 service connecting Uxbridge and Newmarket, connecting to YRT/VIVA and GO Transit at the Highway 404-Davis Drive Park and Ride.
Oshawa, Pickering, and Whitby will also benefit from simplified routing, more direct service, and enhanced reliability.
The changes were first communicated at DRT’s Public Information Centres (PICs), which were held across Durham Region during the month of March. In addition to hosting PICs, DRT uses feedback from customers, operators, field observations, data analysis, as well as partner transit agencies to continuously enhance services.
As the June changes quickly approach, DRT is also looking ahead to additional system improvements coming into effect in September. September changes include better PULSE service, thousands of hours of new bus service, as well as new conventional and specialized buses.
