News

Honouring Lorna Stewart: A Visionary in Inclusive Transit


Published January 22, 2025.

We are heartbroken by the loss of Lorna Stewart, a trailblazer in accessible transit whose vision and determination changed public transportation in Canada. Lorna’s commitment to improving the lives of passengers with disabilities touched countless individuals, creating a ripple effect of positive change that will be felt for generations. Her work wasn’t just about transit—it was about dignity, equality, and opportunity for everyone.

To Lorna’s family, friends, and colleagues, we share in your sorrow and send our heartfelt condolences. Her kindness, passion, and remarkable contributions have left an indelible mark on all of us. Lorna’s legacy lives on in every step we take toward making public transit more inclusive—a testament to her incredible life and the countless lives she uplifted.

To honour Lorna’s incredible legacy, CUTA is proud to introduce the Lorna Stewart Inclusive Transit Award. This award, categorized as a Corporate Award, will celebrate the exceptional efforts of transit and paratransit systems or businesses that have gone above and beyond to dismantle barriers and provide inclusive, accessible transit services. This prestigious award recognizes organizations that ensure travellers, regardless of their abilities, can access transit when and where they need it. Award winners will be distinguished by their relentless pursuit of innovation and excellence. To honour Lorna’s pioneering work, this award serves as both a tribute to her incredible contributions and a beacon for future leaders committed to fostering accessibility in public transportation.

Lorna’s contributions to both conventional and specialized public transit services are unparalleled. As the leader of Edmonton Transit’s Dedicated Accessible Transit Service (DATS), she worked to enhance specialized transit options, placing accessibility at the forefront of service planning. Her role in Community Relations for Edmonton’s conventional transit services further demonstrated her ability to bridge gaps and promote inclusivity across all modes of transit.

This award reflects the breadth of Lorna’s achievements and the transformative impact she had on transit accessibility.

In her tenure at TransLink in Vancouver, Lorna’s impact was equally profound. As the Manager of Access Transit Planning, she spearheaded critical initiatives like the Custom Transit Service Delivery Review and the Fare Gate Access program, driving advancements in both accessibility and user experience. Her expertise in strategy, policy, operations, and IT positioned her as a leader who not only envisioned change but also delivered meaningful results.

Lorna’s influence extended far beyond her professional roles. As the inaugural chair of CUTA’s Accessible Transit Committee, she championed the creation of the Canadian Code of Practice for Determining Eligibility for Specialized Transit. This foundational document set a standard for equitable transit services across the country.

Lorna believed in creating systems that allowed individuals with disabilities to experience the freedom and independence that so many take for granted. Her work set a powerful standard, and this award will encourage others to continue pushing boundaries, advocating for change, and mentoring the next generation of innovators in accessible transit.