If you take the bus to get around, there's some good news just in time for the start of school.
Transit Windsor will restore full bus service on Sunday, September 5 for all city and county routes. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, Transit Windsor had been running on a reduced schedule in response to falling ridership demand, as well as COVID-19 travel restrictions.
"Due to COVID-19 we have been operating on an enhanced Saturday service since September 2020, but with students returning to class, we're ready to return to full service, and we anticipate a smooth transition," said Transit Windsor Executive Director Tyson Cragg in a media release. "I want to thank our riders for their patience and our team here at Transit Windsor for their dedication during a difficult time."
Mayor Drew Dilkens said despite the pandemic, the City is still on track for complete service restoration and future expansion.
"Our goal of expanding Transit Windsor service was put on hold by the global pandemic, but our commitment remained. The 2021 municipal budget provided an operating subsidy of over $21-million to support and enhance transit service across the City of Windsor," said Dilkens. "We are providing safe transit options and working to expand service that aligns with ridership and demand levels."
Physical distancing guidelines will still apply on city buses, and passengers will still be required to wear a face covering.
On Monday, the transit service also announced a new route designed to help St. Clair College students get around. Route 518-X will launch in September. The limited-stop express line will provide bus service between Tecumseh Mall and the main St. Clair College campus in south Windsor, via Devonshire Mall. The new route is expected to reduce travel times from the east end and save an hour each way.
"As our students prepare to return to in-person classes in just a few weeks, St. Clair is elated that their mobility needs will be addressed by Transit Windsor," said St. Clair College President Patti France. "That is especially true of the new express route from the east side of the city. A significant portion of our students live in that area, and I'm sure they will appreciate the convenience of this new service."
Transit Windsor also said Monday that despite a loosening of U.S. traffic into Canada, the tunnel bus service to downtown Detroit is suspended until the border is fully reopened.
Complete information on all Transit Windsor routes can be found on its official website.