Barrie City Council approved the implementation of a new transit network for Barrie. Key highlights of the new network include improved frequency, reduced trip times, better access to employment areas, coverage to new areas of the city and improved travel freedom for riders.
“The transit network re-design comes after extensive engagement with the public. The plan takes into consideration evolving ridership trends and emerging technologies we can leverage to better meet the needs of current and future transit customers,” says Brent Forsyth, Director of Transit and Parking. “Not only will the new network move as many people, to as many destinations, as quickly, frequently and reliably as possible, the implementation of this network will also lead to a capital cost savings of $10 million.”
The new network will feature an express service on Highway 400, as well as an expansion of the Transit ON Demand service model into neighbourhoods that have a low demand for transit, resulting in improved efficiency. Transit ON Demand operates without a fixed schedule or route; users book their trip through an application and then the bus travel is optimized through a computer-based system.
The new transit network will be implemented in two phases, starting in 2024. The second phase of implementation is expected to be complete in 2025.
For more information on transit in Barrie, visit barrie.ca/transit.