In 2001, the five conventional transit services and seven specialized transit services operating in York Region were brought together to form the new York Region Transit (YRT). In total, net expenditures on public transit were increased by some 35% in the first year of operation. Since YRT’s birth, York Region Transit ridership has increased by eight per cent.

A Marketing and Corporate Identity program gave YRT its new name and a new look. The ride guide of transit services was consolidated to serve all transit riders in the Region. A new transit website, backed by a five-year marketing strategy, was developed to bring the news to York Region riders.

In 2001, specialized transit service for persons with disabilities was introduced in the Township of King and the Town of East Gwillimbury.

A Five-Year Service Plan outlining new region-wide services, standards, fare policy and a schedule for the expanding services was substantially completed in 2001. The plan is geared towards meeting the demands of growth and increasing transit’s overall market share of trips. Consultation sessions were held with all nine municipalities, the public and service agencies.

York Region has taken a pioneering step toward forming a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for a new rapid transit network. This first-in-Ontario idea allows York Region to work collaboratively with the private sector in the development, operations, management and financing of transit. Simply put, the plan is to reduce costs and tap into private sector expertise. York’s rapid transit strategy is focused on linking with the rapid transit network in the City of Toronto, and with the Regions of Durham and Peel.

Environmental assessment studies have now been done on the best way to implement rapid transit in the Yonge Street and Highway 7 corridors.

Traffic congestion is a growing problem in York Region and the entire GTA. The Region’s Transportation Master Plan is a comprehensive study designed to guide transit and road expansion in the near future and over the next 30 years. It outlines a long-range strategy for improvements to both public transit and roads. The most significant feature of the plan is its emphasis on higher order transit – bus rapid transit, light rail and subway – to meet the growing transportation needs of the Region. Throughout the plan’s development, input from the public and other stakeholders was regularly sought.

“A job well done – bus driver Jeff. It is not often today that one encounters such a pleasant, caring, thoughtful, compassionate individual to start each day… I have never written a letter such as this before, but I felt I should indicate to you just what a fine job your employee is doing.”

Sincerely,

Susan Graham