Province Asks Toronto to Consider ‘Microtransit’ Alternative to Low-Performing Bus Routes

In a letter sent out to Mayor John Tory from Transportation Minister Caroline Mulroney, Toronto has been asked to review low-performing bus routes and work with the province and Metrolinx to determine “the feasibility of implementing microtransit options,” CBC News is reporting.

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For those who aren’t aware, the term ‘microtransit’ usually refers to transit systems where the customer summons a ride on-demand via a website or app, sometimes through a public-private partnership with companies like Uber.

In its letter, dated Aug.12, the Province has, however, not clarified whether a private partnership with a company like Uber is part of its vision for microtransit. 

“Microtransit refers to small scale, flexible transportation services,” said a Ministry of Transportation spokesperson. “[It] may offer a more sustainable way to provide transit service to unserved and underserved areas.” 

Meanwhile, Austin Jafri, a member of the transit advocacy group TTC Riders, says the real answer is to improve bus service long-term. “The reason ridership is low is because the service is not great; it comes every half-hour,” he said.

Jafri also worries that any switch to a microtransit model could involve the introduction of fare-by-distance. 

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