Timmins Transit bus fares will increase as of January 1, 2023. A single ride will go up 25 cents for all passengers, while the cost of monthly passes will see a nominal increase for all categories except students and children.
The price changes will bring current fares in line with the Transit User Fee by-law 2020-8488.
“In order for our rates to be realigned with the user fee by-law, the regular increase will be implemented for 2023,” says Ken Krcel, Director of Public Works and Environmental Services. “The alternative, continuing to freeze fare rates, would result in a significant increase at a future point in time.”
User fees are designed to offset the cost of operation and maintenance. Transit fares covered roughly 19% of operational costs in 2021, with the municipal tax base absorbing 68% of the cost to operate our public transit system. Timmins Transit continues to operate a modified schedule post pandemic based on ridership numbers. The schedule is designed to balance service, convenience, and cost.
“Ridership numbers have not bounced back from COVID-19,” adds Krcel. “We monitor them regularly and can act fast to adjust the schedule, if required. We have seen an increase in monthly bus pass sales, which we attribute to the start of the school year and the addition of the Northern College Express. It’s a step in the right direction.”
Passengers can track their bus online using https://tracker.timminstransit.ca/ or download the Timmins Transit app today from Google Play or App Store.
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