On Demand is in demand; close to 6,000 trips booked in first month

Whitby, Ontario – Durham Region Transit (DRT) launched a new service plan, including a new On Demand service model, a month ago to meet existing and projected customer demand, from early morning to late night, seven days a week. Part of the Ridership Recovery Framework, with a goal of encouraging and increasing transit ridership, the first month of On Demand ridership numbers are in and are encouraging:

• 5,844 trips delivered
• 65 per cent trips booked through the DRT On Demand app
• 30 per cent of users provided feedback through the DRT On Demand app
  • 90 per cent rated their experience as positive

This new service model ensures residents have access to public transit no matter where they live, work, or are travelling to within the region.

“It’s encouraging to see people using this new and innovative service, and especially that residents of and visitors to Durham Region are providing positive feedback,” said John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer. “Our priority is unwavering – to provide safe, accessible and reliable transit options across the region.”

"The results of the first month of the new On Demand service model highlights Durham Region Transit's continued support of the community by providing access to efficient and flexible service, seven days a week," said Mayor of Ajax and Chair of the Transit Executive Committee, Shaun Collier. “This innovation and commitment to customer service excellence helps drive the future of transit in Durham Region.”

“The enhanced transit network, including the On Demand service in low-ridership areas, positions us well to continue serving our customers with flexible and sustainable public transit options, even as we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic. We’re thrilled with the feedback and results so far,” said Bill Holmes, General Manager.

DRT continues to gather feedback from customers, continuously evaluating and enhancing service to support ridership over the coming months. To learn more about On Demand service, visit the DRT website.

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Media inquiries:
Durham Region Transit Commission
Janet Piercey – Communications Advisor
289-830-2519 or janet.piercey@durham.ca

If this information is required in an accessible format, please call 1-866-247-0055.