Timmins Transit’s On-Demand service is coming to Porcupine and South Porcupine beginning August 1, 2024. The microtransit pilot project will allow Timmins Transit to expand service coverage for Porcupine and South Porcupine, and provide flexible, shared-ride transportation booked through the Timmins Transit On-Demand mobile app, web portal, or by calling Timmins Transit.
On-Demand service is one way that Timmins Transit is modernizing their current public transit model with a goal of increasing ridership, optimizing existing conventional bus routes, and creating a more affordable transportation solution. Timmins Transit On-Demand provides shared rides between any two designated bus stop locations within the service area using smaller-sized, fully accessible buses. The addition of microtransit service also allows conventional bus service to Porcupine and South Porcupine to be upgraded to a 15-minute service frequency. Buses will be running to and from Porcupine and South Porcupine every 15 minutes.
“Our current conventional buses run on a fixed-route network,” says Director of Public Works and Environmental Services, Ken Krcel. “A microtransit solution will allow us to fill service gaps by connecting areas that have been underserved to existing bus routes. That means, riders in Porcupine and South Porcupine, including Connaught Hill, who do not live near a static bus stop, will be able to use Timmins Transit On-Demand to catch their bus. By optimizing the existing conventional bus routes, we can also provide more frequent service for Porcupine and South Porcupine.”
The Timmins Transit On-Demand app launched in February for existing paratransit users. Riders requiring accessible service are now able to book rides and plan travel without the need for advanced reservations. Now, the same app and same accessible bus will be used to roll out service in Porcupine and South Porcupine. Adding expanded On-Demand service will require changes in the current fixed-route service, so Timmins Transit is encouraging riders to review the changes online at www.timmins.ca/transit.
“When we launch Timmins Transit On-Demand on August 1, routes 16 and 901 East will be replaced by a direct route 101 East with a 15-minute frequency,” says Transit Manager, Marcel Cote. “Many of the conventional bus stops will become virtual stops. Riders will need to book travel through Timmins Transit On-Demand for pick-up. Our regular buses will no longer service those stops, but shared-ride pick-ups will connect the rider to their destination or nearest transit hub. This also applies to residents in Schumacher traveling to Porcupine or South Porcupine. A new stop on Hwy. 101 E at McIntyre Rd. will be added for eastbound riders.”
Timmins Transit will be holding a public information centre on Thursday, July 25, 2024 in the Northern College gymnasium. Two sessions available. Drop in between 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. or 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. See the expanded route map, watch demonstrations of how to book and navigate the Timmins Transit On-Demand app, and learn more about how microtransit is revolutionizing public transportation.
The Timmins Transit On-Demand app is available to download now from the iOS App Store or Google Play Store. The app will go live for advanced bookings on July 25, 2024. Delivering a modern, efficient, and convenient public transportation network is Timmins Transit’s main goal. Timmins Transit On-Demand is how we get there.
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