Transforming Transit
Project updates October 2, 2022
In late 2021, not wanting to make any more cuts, the Saint John Transit Commission chose to be bold. They gave staff the go ahead to begin "Transforming Transit."
This project is the implementation of the Stantec Report. The Stantec Report is the result of an audit on all Saint John Transit operations. The audit considered the strengths, challenges and opportunities for Transit to operate sustainably*, better serve current riders, attract new riders and adopt industry standards.
*financially and environmentally
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Key project highlights
The project is a key component of the City's Fleet Low Carbon Mitigation Strategy, a roadmap to help the City reach net zero by 2040.
Planning principles
Guided by the Saint John Transit Commission, a small team of City and Transit employees and have established the following planning principles.
•They consider Saint John’s people and geography.
•They understand that transit is an essential service to many in our community.
•They recognize there are many opportunities including:
- offering a “green” transportation option for residents;
- leveraging new technology, and;
- balancing service hours (using rider data to determine delivery).
• They acknowledge that engaged employees and leadership are critical to success.
• They show sound financial judgement to funders, taxpayers and system users.
This will be a big change for some system users. We will work with riders and the community to ensure the system is accessible.
Key system highlights
New service delivery has been determined by current ridership data.
- rapid (every 15 minutes) service on our most heavily used fixed routes during peak hours
- expanded hours on the most heavily used routes
- increased frequency on feeder routes
- buses do not operate on a schedule or drive a specified route
- riders will use an app or phone to schedule a ride to their nearest bus stop, where they meet the bus
- riders can travel within the zone or to a rapid transit stop to transfer
- the target for this service is 30-minute for the arrival of the bus at the requested stop from receipt of the rider notification
- faster more flexible service than offered on current low ridership routes
- certain established routes will operate with a limited schedule week days only
Riders can use cash or can purchase a fare card from a vendor here. It is expected in 2024, electronic fare options will be available for users.
An inventory of all 721 stops is being conducted this summer. This inventory will be used to determine stop suitability, improve signage at stops, improve amenities at stops where possible, and consider maintenance.
More detailed information will be provided on this site as it becomes available.
When will these changes begin?
In 2023 the City will begin piloting a number of leased electric vehicles on certain routes to determine the best fit for our city and riders.
It is expected on-demand service will be introduced in one area (zone) of the City in January 2023. Riders in that area will be given plenty of notice. This service will be rolled out as resources are available. The roll out of this system is very dependent on the availability of buses and drivers.
Electronic fare options will be available in 2024.
Did you know?
You can use the "Transit Route Finder" by scrolling down on Transit's website to find your schedule on the current system?
Where can I get more information?
The column on the right of this page contains background information, links to Council Reports and frequently asked questions. Please take a moment to look them over.
You can also email Saint John Transit at
SJTransitCustomerService@saintjohn.ca
Stay tuned to this page for project information and ways to get involved. You can also sign up on saintjohn.ca for news and notifications.
