Chatham-Kent residents will soon have more access to public transit.
Ride CK's OnRequest Public Transit service is expanding with Wallaceburg OnRequest.
The new urban public transit service, open to all residents and visitors, launches on Monday, July 18. The service will operate Monday to Saturday from 7 a.m. to 7:15 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding holidays.
Unlike a traditional fixed route bus service, the OnRequest service requires riders to book a trip between bus stops using an app on their phone or by calling the transit telephone line. Trips are shared alongside other passengers.
The 53 designated bus stops in Wallaceburg will include both existing stops that are serviced by Inter-Urban Route A, as well as many "virtual" bus stops where no signage is present.
“With no previous conventional urban transit in Wallaceburg it’s going to take some time to build up bus stop infrastructure,” said Manager of Transit and Capital Asset Management Ann-Marie Millson. “But by using virtual stops we can reduce walking distances and be more flexible in making adjustments to locations in case travel needs are different than we forecasted.”
At the time of booking, the rider will be directed where to wait for the bus based on their location and the approaching direction of the bus. According to municipal officials, up to two low-floor fully accessible transit vehicles will be on-duty to deliver requested trips. Riders with a disability who have been approved for Wallaceburg accessible specialized transit will continue to receive curb-to-curb service. There will be no impacts on Inter-Urban Route A which provides service between Wallaceburg, Dresden, and Chatham.
Meanwhile, Chatham OnRequest will be expanding its service to Sundays effective July 17.
Sunday service will operate from 9:00 am to 5 p.m., excluding holidays. Existing bus stops used for the weekday evening Chatham OnRequest service will be available.
“Transit on Sundays has been a longtime ask from Chatham residents,” continued Millson. “While we don’t anticipate high enough demand to support the extension of our fixed route network to Sundays, OnRequest will be perfect for those who need to run errands or looking to attend church services.”
Ride CK's OnRequest service started as a pilot project in March 2020. It was later approved as a permanent service due to strong usage and positive feedback from the community.
A $2.50 exact cash fare applies to all urban Ride CK services in Chatham-Kent or riders can load a smart card with a Cash Pass or 30-Day Urban Pass.
More details along with bus stop locations and booking information can be found by clicking here.