Metrolinx, the operator of GO transit, is reminding students in Durham about the GO Transit and Presto options available to help make their commute easier and more affordable.
For those attending Durham College and Ontario Tech University, GO Transit will continue to serve both campuses through several key bus routes:
- Route 52 – Oshawa/Hwy 407 Bus Terminal
- Route 52A – Durham College/Hwy 407 Bus Terminal
- Route 56 – Oshawa/Oakville
- Route 56A – Oshawa/Square One
As of August 30, a new stop has also been added at Durham College Oshawa GO and Simcoe Street at Athol Street. Students can also make use of the Lakeshore East GO Train line, which runs between Durham College Oshawa GO Station and Toronto’s Union Station.
In September, students will have a chance to connect directly with the Durham Community Engagement Team through campus events. Representatives will be at Durham College’s orientation on September 5 from 10 am to 2 pm and Ontario Tech University’s orientation on September 10 from 11 am to 3 pm. In partnership with Durham Region Transit, the team will be on hand to answer transit-related questions and provide guidance.
Metrolinx has also made minor scheduling adjustments to improve travel times and reliability. Students are encouraged to review updated schedules on the GO Transit website and plan trips in advance.
Keep school roadways safe this September
As the new school year begins, more children will be walking and biking in and around school areas. To help keep everyone safe, drivers are reminded to slow down, follow posted speed limits, and respect all traffic signs, including no parking and no stopping zones, said the City of Oshawa.
It said Municipal Law Enforcement Officers will be actively monitoring school zones and enforcing parking regulations to protect pedestrians. “Please do not park in fire routes, block driveways, or obstruct sidewalks.”
No Stopping Zones
- Stopping is not permitted, even for quick drop-offs or pick-ups.
- These zones are located where stopping could cause traffic hazards, congestion, or interfere with school crossings.
- Fines increase with each violation: $60 → $80 → $100.
No Parking Zones
- Brief stops are allowed for actively picking up or dropping off children—drivers must stay in the vehicle.
- Parking while waiting is not allowed.
- Fines range from $40 to $80, depending on the location.
- Fire route fines are higher: $100 → $120 → $140.
School Crossing Zones
Please follow the City’s three-whistle system used by crossing guards:
- First Whistle – Guard enters the road with stop sign; traffic must stop.
- Second Whistle – Signals it’s safe for children to cross.
- Third Whistle – After all children have crossed, the guard clears the road, and traffic may resume.
Driver Responsibilities:
- Watch for children and be prepared to stop at any time
- Wait until all children have fully crossed before proceeding
- Slow down in school zones
- Stop for crossing guards holding a stop paddle
- Obey school bus signals
- Follow all traffic signs and signals
- Stay alert for children near or between vehicles
School Bus Loading Zones
- Reserved exclusively for school buses or vehicles under contract with the school boards
- Stopping or parking is strictly prohibited, even briefly
- Fines escalate: $45 → $65 → $85
Community Safety Zones
- Designated areas near schools and other public spaces with increased safety concerns
- Carry enhanced penalties for violations like speeding or careless driving
- Durham Regional Police and Municipal Law Enforcement conduct active enforcement in these zones
40kmh Areas
- These residential areas are reduced from 50 km/h to 40 km/h to enhance safety.
- Clearly marked signs are posted at all entrances and exits of the neighbourhood to indicate where the 40 km/h area speed limits are in effect.
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