This week’s Transit Highlights showcase initiatives focused on accessibility, convenience and safety across Canadian public transit. OC Transpo is offering a weekend of free transit in Ottawa, Halifax Transit is introducing a new mobile fare payment option, and Metrolinx is promoting safe behaviour around railways as part of Rail Safety Week.

OC Transpo offers free transit weekend across Ottawa

OC Transpo is offering unlimited free transit on September 26 and 27, giving residents and visitors access to buses, O-Train Lines 1, 2 and 4, and Para Transpo at no cost. The free service runs from 3 a.m. Saturday until 3 a.m. Monday and coincides with events celebrating Ottawa’s 200th anniversary. OC Transpo is also hosting activities throughout the weekend, including an open house at the future Place d’Orléans Station and a Transit Showcase at Hurdman Station.

Halifax Transit launches Tap and Ride on HFXGO

Halifax Transit has introduced a new Tap and Ride feature in its HFXGO mobile app, giving riders another way to pay for trips on buses and ferries. Riders with verified accounts can add funds and use a barcode when boarding, while the system automatically applies fare capping to help ensure they receive the lowest available fare. Adult fares are capped at $7.50 per day and $90 per month, with additional contactless payment options planned for later this year.

Metrolinx promotes safe travel during Rail Safety Week

Metrolinx is marking Rail Safety Week from September 21 to 27 with events and educational activities across the region aimed at encouraging safe behaviour around trains, stations and rail crossings. Throughout the week, Metrolinx is working with Operation Lifesaver and community partners at locations across the GO Transit network to share safety information on topics including railway crossings, trespassing and safe travel around transit infrastructure. The week also includes a family-friendly event at the Kids Safety Village of Durham Region on September 26, featuring hands-on rail safety demonstrations and activities.

Together, these initiatives highlight how transit organizations are working to improve the rider experience while supporting safer and more accessible transportation. From eliminating fares for a weekend and introducing new digital payment options to promoting rail safety, transit systems are finding new ways to serve and engage their communities.