Check out this week’s Canadian public transit highlights as we celebrate ongoing progress in this dynamic and evolving industry.

 

🚍Edmonton Transit Service Expansion

Edmonton Transit Service is adding 50,000 annual service hours and 20 new buses to enhance routes with high demand. Among the improvements, service on the 747 route to Edmonton International Airport is getting a boost. These changes aim to provide better connectivity and reliability for passengers.

 

🏡Winnipeg’s Transit-Oriented Housing Initiative

Winnipeg is embracing innovative housing solutions by integrating residential developments with transit infrastructure. Plans are in motion to build homes around a major bus loop and atop a new Winnipeg Transit office, prioritizing density and accessibility. At least 30 percent of the units will be designated as affordable housing, contributing to the city’s housing and transportation goals.

 

💳Thunder Bay Transit Introduces Electronic Fare Cards

Thunder Bay Transit has officially launched its Lift Pass electronic fare card system. Passengers can now tap to pay for their rides using reloadable cards, streamlining the boarding process. This initiative is designed to make transit more convenient and accessible for riders.

 

🔋Milton’s Electric Bus Pilot

Milton’s first electric bus has hit the streets, marking a significant step toward greener transit. As Canada’s first mid-life diesel-to-electric conversion, this year-long pilot will assess the bus’s performance across all seasons. If successful, more diesel-to-electric conversions could follow, reducing emissions and shaping the future of Milton Transit.

 

🚎TransLink’s Trolley Bus Replacement Plan

TransLink has announced plans to replace its entire fleet of 262 trolley buses with new models from European manufacturer Solaris. The first bus is expected to be in service by mid-2026, with the full fleet replacement rolling out through 2027. The contract also allows for potential fleet expansion in the future.

 

As these projects take shape, they highlight the role of transit in fostering economic growth, environmental sustainability, and improved mobility. Stay tuned for more updates as Canadian transit continues to evolve.