Winnipeg Transit Plus will launch a new booking service on June 18 that is designed to improve service accessibility, efficiency and reliability for users. The new service, which was developed by Spare Labs Inc., includes an automated phone service, as well as a smartphone and web app. The Winnipeg Transit Plus service currently accommodates more than 28,000 requested trips a month, serves more than 5,100 active registered customers and operates with a dedicated fleet of approximately 70 vehicles, including sedans, vans and buses.
The trip-booking system will include two self-service booking options:
- The Winnipeg Transit+ On-Request smartphone and web app
- An automated phone service with voice response technology
While the automated phone service will be available to all customers at launch, the app will only be accessible to a select group of early adopters. The full app launch will follow on July 9. The new options will be available with the current trip-booking methods.
Spare Labs notes customers who book trips starting June 11 for June 18 and onwards will experience some changes in advance of the launch.
Transit Plus is also introducing e-cash payments. As part of the launch, there will be a one-time transfer of funds from Transit Plus accounts (up to C$200 (US$146.33)) to e-cash. Customers will also be able to attach a debit or credit card to their profile to pay for trips and fare products.
The changes will benefit Transit Plus staff and drivers by:
- Increasing the ride sharing of vehicles
- Allowing more trip requests
- Improving route planning
Customer service representatives will also be able to provide quicker responses.
"I am pleased to see Winnipeg Transit Plus embracing innovation with the launch of this new trip-booking system,” said Mayor of Winnipeg Scott Gillingham. "Winnipeg Transit Plus customers have been asking for a more accessible and reliable service and we've heard them loud and clear. These improvements will significantly enhance the experience for users by removing barriers and increasing efficiency.”
"We're happy to reach this important milestone for our valued customers," said Winnipeg Transit Manager of Client Services Teresa Platt. "Our team is available and looking forward to offering support to customers as we transition to this new system."
Winnipeg Transit On-Request, which has operated as a pilot since 2021, will be permanently joining Spare Labs’ system later in 2024.
Our partnership with Winnipeg Transit moves us closer to our shared goal of ensuring riders can reach their destinations conveniently and efficiently,” said Spare Labs CEO Kristoffer Vik Hansen. “Modernizing the Transit Plus trip-booking system will improve the overall rider experience, making every journey smoother and more reliable."
