Durham Region Transit (DRT) executive committee, during a meeting on April 8, has approved the DRT 2026 Fare Strategy which calls for the elimination of monthly passes as well as moves to do away with cash fares.
A Durham Region statement said the 2026 DRT Fare Strategy supports further modernizing the fare payment and management system.
This includes considerations for:
- Fare capping, and the elimination of monthly passes.
- Exploring the transition to eliminating cash fares.
- Expanding criteria for the Transit Affordability Program.
- Enhancing the revenue protection program.
“The updated DRT Fare Strategy provides a clear roadmap for evolving the fare system in a way that reflects best practices across the industry. It supports greater consistency across the GTHA, while advancing access and affordability for our customers. This ensures our fare system remains modern and responsive to the needs of the communities we serve,” said Bill Holmes, DRT General Manager.
Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit
An update was provided on the Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) line, a planned 36-kilometre rapid transit corridor between downtown Oshawa and the Scarborough Town Centre.
Updates were provided for sections of the DSBRT in Ajax and Pickering, which will be under various stages of construction between 2026 – 2028. The sections are funded by the Investing In Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) Watch this video to learn more.
“The Durham-Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit project is focused on building more connected communities across our region. As construction progresses, we recognize the temporary impacts this work may have and appreciate the patience and co-operation of residents and businesses. Once complete, the DSBRT will deliver a faster, more reliable, and more sustainable transit system that strengthens connections between neighbourhoods and improves quality of life for years to come,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and CEO.
April service updates:
Effective yesterday, April 13, DRT will implement service enhancements to improve GO Train connections and on-time performance. Customers are encouraged to check DurhamRegionTransit.com for full details of their routes and schedules.
- 411/421: For consistency, Route 421 will replace 411 trips on the weekend. There will be a new branch 421F on weekends, from Trulls Road to Oshawa Centre Terminal.
- 618: On weekdays, routing will be modified to operate via Paxton Street and Scugog Line 6. New stops have been updated to serve Port Perry Hospital, improving access for residents, patients and staff. New stops have also been added on 1401 Scugog Line 6 and at Easy Street to support the local employers and their employees.