Public transit across Canada is evolving fast, from major map updates in Toronto to network redesigns in Montreal and consultations in Victoria. Transit agencies are working to improve accessibility, connectivity, and service for riders, while engaging communities in shaping the future of transit. Here’s a look at some of the latest developments.

 

TTC Unveils Its Most Significant Map Update in Decades

Toronto’s TTC has rolled out its most significant transit map update in decades, led by in-house cartographer Alex Blackwell. The redesigned map now includes the Finch West LRT and the long-awaited Eglinton Crosstown (Line 5), even though the Eglinton line has yet to open. Replacing an estimated 20,000 maps across vehicles and stations, the TTC avoided additional costs by adding both LRT lines at once.

Designing the map involved careful compromises, including adapting to fixed LED lights and hardware on existing subway maps, which created subtle bends in Line 5’s design. Blackwell continually refines the map to reflect accessibility upgrades and takes inspiration from a passionate online community of transit map enthusiasts. Experts have praised the redesign for making Toronto’s network appear larger, more modern, and more cohesive. Blackwell’s work has captured the public’s imagination, highlighting how transit maps play a key role in how riders experience and understand the city.

 

BC Transit Seeks Public Input on Future Victoria Airport Service

BC Transit and the Victoria Regional Transit Commission have launched a public consultation on transit service to Victoria International Airport. An online survey is open until February 15 to help guide future planning and ensure services meet both current and future needs. Two open houses will be held to provide information and gather feedback: February 11 at Sidney Save-On-Foods and February 12 at Uptown Walmart in Saanich.

The consultation comes amid local concerns about how airport-focused service changes might impact existing riders on the Saanich Peninsula. Sidney councillor Cliff McNeil-Smith has raised equity concerns, emphasizing that improvements in airport connectivity should not come at the expense of local transit service. Residents are encouraged to share their perspectives before the consultation closes.

 

STM Launches Largest Bus Network Redesign in History for Centre-North and West Island

Montreal’s STM is implementing its largest bus network overhaul ever, affecting nearly 80 routes across the Centre-North and West Island. The redesign coincides with the spring opening of the REM’s Anse-à-l’Orme branch.

The changes add 246 new stops, simplify 14,000 transfers, introduce eight new routes, and extend evening and weekend service on select lines. Around 375,000 residents are expected to benefit from shorter trips, improved connections to REM stations, and better access to high-frequency lines. STM engaged in extensive consultations with municipalities and the community to inform the redesign. Ahead of the rollout, a multi-channel communications campaign—including a trip simulator, public meetings, and information kiosks—will help riders familiarize themselves with the new network.

 

OC Transpo Launches ‘Pride of Dreams’ Bus Mural for Black History Month

OC Transpo has unveiled a new bus mural to mark Black History Month in February 2026. Titled Pride of Dreams, the artwork will appear on three buses and was created by Ottawa artist Jimmy Baptiste. The mural celebrates Black trailblazers, community figures and historical symbols that have helped shape Ottawa and Canada.

Featured figures include CTV News Ottawa anchor Stefan Keyes, Juno Award–winning blues musician Angelique Francis, and Canada Soccer Hall of Famer Charmaine Hooper. The mural also highlights symbolic references such as Barber Street, Brown’s Cleaners, and Canadian railway porters, recognizing the contributions, resilience and achievements of Black Canadians.

The project was developed in collaboration with Black History Ottawa, the Ottawa Black Art Kollective and the City of Ottawa, with the goal of honouring past and present Black leaders while inspiring future generations.