If you're catching the bus in St. Catharines in the new year, you may not notice anything different. At least, not right away. But, behind the scenes changes are happening to help improve the day-to-day lives of the people living and St. Catharines and help drive economic growth in our community.
On Jan. 1, 2023, the Niagara Transit Commission launched Niagara Region Transit, a new consolidated transit system in the region. Niagara Region Transit is the result of an effort from Niagara Region and the 12 local municipalities to connect all of Niagara by combining the existing public transit systems from across Niagara into one transit operator.
Access to safe, affordable and environmentally-friendly public transportation helps creates more opportunities for businesses, residents and visitors.
The new Niagara Region Transit facilitates better access to jobs and services in Niagara, opening up new options for residents in neighbouring municipalities, and new markets for businesses. In addition, it will provide residents with more sustainable and environmentally-friendly public transit options which will help our local environment by reducing traffic congestion and greenhouse gas emissions.
Although riders will not experience any changes to bus routes, schedules, OnDemand and specialized transit services, they might see a change in fare prices and technology helping to align transit fares and services across Niagara.
Having one transit system will prepare Niagara for the future by ensuring transit options can scale up to meet the needs of our growing population and job market. One transit system also supports the expansion and connectivity of GO Transit service to the region.
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