Durham Region Transit (DRT) is introducing open payment in the coming months, which will allow customers to board a DRT vehicle by tapping their credit or debit card on the Presto device, according to Durham Region.
“This provides another option for riders in addition to Presto cards, Presto e-Tickets, or exact fare in cash,” said a statement.
On June 8, members of the DRT Executive Committee met virtually to discuss various initiatives and updates.
Another topic of discussion was the Demand Response Service.
DRT is currently undergoing an integration of its Specialized and On Demand services to create a more equitable customer experience, said the statement.
On Demand and Specialized trip bookings will be combined through one software app instead of separate platforms. This integration will simplify and improve the effectiveness of these services for both customers and transit operators. Customers will still be able to book their trips online or over the phone. The operational and software transitions are expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
Another topic of discussion was DRT Zero green-house gas emission fleet plan.
In support of Durham Region’s Corporate Climate Change Action Plan, DRT plans to transition all transit vehicles to battery electric powered, zero green-house gas emission vehicles by 2037.
DRT and the Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) have agreed to a Memorandum of Understanding to pursue a funding agreement to support the purchase of up to 100 battery electric buses by 2027. This is a part of DRT’s E-Mission Zero strategy, which will reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions in the region (see below).
“Durham Region Transit is committed to improving service to meet the needs of our customers. Our goal with the amalgamated Demand Response Service is to deliver an equitable, reliable and customer-focused service for all residents and visitors,” said Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit.