March 17, 2020
Today, the City announced adjustments to the changes made yesterday to Edmonton Transit Service. These new changes are effective immediately and will respond to the unexpected demand for service during this morning’s commute.
“COVID-19 brings challenging times for all of us. We have adjusted a number of City services to reflect the constantly-changing circumstances we are all facing,” said Interim City Manager Adam Laughlin. “In response to this morning’s experience, I want to say three things. We heard you. This wasn’t what we wanted you to experience. And we are responding quickly.”
In response to what the City learned this morning, the following changes are being made for this afternoon:
- Additional buses will be added to the 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 15, 17 and 112 routes
- Peak-level services will be added back to the 16 Express, 80, 83, 84, 92, 95, 122, 137, 182, 331 routes
- Earlier morning service will be added to the 100 route
- More standby buses in various locations across the city will be added to address crowding issues
The City will monitor morning and afternoon rush hours, and use those insights to help plan for the next cycle. Adjustments will be made as necessary.
By reducing service yesterday, the City is able to rotate buses and train cars regularly to clean them even more often. This new practice will continue.
The City also announced that holders of March low-income Ride Transit Program passes will be able to use their passes throughout April. Decisions about other transit passes are expected in the coming days.
