Community feedback prompts fixed route pilot in addition to On-Demand system

Cobourg, ON (August 15, 2024) – On September 3, the Town of Cobourg will proudly launch a new Limited Fixed Route pilot program for Cobourg Transit. The fixed route service features 35 strategically located stops throughout the Town and will operate on an hourly schedule.

The Limited Fixed Route Bus program is a one-year trial, operating in addition to the current On-Demand bus system, offering more flexibility and convenience for Cobourg residents.

Features of the Limited Fixed Route include:

• 35 Well-Placed Stops: The new route covers the highest demand and popular locations, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the town. The new fixed route is a combination of the previous Route 1 and Route 2 loops offering service from the East end of Cobourg to the West end and areas in between.
• Hourly Service: Buses will run every hour, Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., providing consistent and dependable service. Bus schedule and signage will indicate how many minutes past the hour the bus is scheduled to arrive.
• Enhanced Convenience: The fixed route and frequent service mean that riders who need flexibility with their timing can access transportation with greater ease.

“We are thrilled to introduce this new bus pilot as part of our ongoing efforts to improve public transportation in Cobourg,” said Mayor Lucas Cleveland. “This change in service is a direct response to community feedback that aims to offer an efficient, reliable, and user-friendly transit option. With the limited fixed route and on-demand services, residents will have more options than ever to stay connected around town.”

The new Limited Fixed Route Bus System will officially begin operations on Tuesday, September 3, 2024. Information is available online at www.Cobourg.ca/transit, with brochures also available at municipal buildings including Victoria Hall, the Cobourg Community Centre and the Cobourg Public Library.

Cobourg Transit On-Demand Service
The On-Demand transit service will continue to operate, utilizing current stop locations. The On-Demand system allows for easy online booking with 184 stops throughout Town and real-time tracking of your ride.

To improve the user experience, a new app for booking On-Demand will be launched on September 1, 2024. The app, called “Cobourg Transit,” will be available in the app store at the end of August. Bookings made for September 1, and following September 1 will be made using the new ‘Cobourg Transit’ app. Bookings may also be made via the website at https://book.cobourgtransit.rideco.com/ and by phone: 905-373-0582.

On-Demand service hours are Monday to Friday 6:15 a.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday 8:15 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. and Sunday 8:45 a.m. to 3:45 p.m.

WHEELS
Cobourg Transit offers an origin to destination service called WHEELS for eligible riders. Riders who are unable to utilize the Conventional, stop-to-stop, transit service due to cognitive, physical, sensory, visual or environmental limitations, may apply for the WHEELS program.

Bus Fares
Single Cash Fare: $2.50 for both On-Demand and Fixed Route services; 30-day passes are available on the Town's website or at the finance office in Victoria Hall (55 King Street West, Cobourg).

Ways to Pay
To utilize Cobourg Transit, riders may pay via the following:

• cash on board
• a reloadable Smart Card (can be purchased for 30-day pass or 10/20 ride pass), may be purchased online (cobourg.usetransit.com) or in person at Victoria Hall (finance office)
• bus tickets
• via the app (On-Demand only)

Children five and under are free.

For more information about the bus system, including route maps, schedules, and fare details, please visit www.Cobourg.ca/transit or contact the Town of Cobourg Engineering Department at 905-372-4555.