As summer winds down and September approaches, transit agencies across Canada are rolling out major service improvements. From Metro Vancouver to Waterloo, Guelph and Windsor, riders can expect more buses, new routes and expanded service hours designed to meet growing demand and make commuting easier. Here’s a look at the latest updates.

TransLink boosting service on 53 Metro Vancouver bus routes

Starting Sept. 1, TransLink will increase service on 53 busy bus routes across Metro Vancouver, with a focus on easing congestion in Surrey and along key corridors such as the 99, R1 and R4. Some buses that previously ran every 10 minutes will now come every six. Midday service is also being added on Route 388 between New Westminster and Surrey.

The changes are part of TransLink’s priority investment plan and will be followed by regular service upgrades and new routes next year. Advocates welcomed the move but noted it’s only the first step in addressing rising demand—especially in Surrey, where ridership jumped 20 per cent in 2024.

Metrolinx adds express GO buses for Waterloo, Guelph students

Just in time for the back-to-school rush, Metrolinx is rolling out new express GO bus routes in Waterloo and Guelph. Beginning Aug. 30, buses will connect Waterloo to Mississauga and Bramalea, and Brampton to the University of Guelph.

Kitchener GO train schedules will also see minor adjustments on Sept. 2, while Route 17B, linking the University of Waterloo to Burlington GO, will wrap up for the year on Aug. 24.

Transit Windsor expanding service with 20,000 more hours

Transit Windsor is set to launch major service changes on Aug. 31, including 20,000 additional service hours, expanded weekend coverage and new routes. Riders will also see shorter wait times and renamed routes designed to improve reliability.

To help with navigation, Windsor is introducing a new colour-coded numbering system, along with reflective bus stop signs. The service boost also comes with eight new full-time driver positions.

These changes highlight how transit systems across Canada are investing in service improvements to keep pace with ridership growth and community needs. Whether it’s more frequent buses in Surrey, express connections for students in Waterloo and Guelph, or expanded coverage in Windsor, riders are set to benefit from better service as the fall season begins.