On Demand Transit will complement regular bus service so more Edmontonians can get to where they need to go conveniently and safely.

On Demand Transit Update

To ensure all Edmontonians can connect to the City’s new bus network next year, Edmonton Transit Service (ETS) has selected Pacific Western Transportation (PWT) and Via to launch Canada’s largest On Demand Transit service. A total of 57 shuttle buses will conveniently and safely connect residents in select neighbourhoods to and from a nearby transit hub. These accessible shuttles do not follow fixed routes and only operate upon request. The On Demand Transit service, which will add a new layer to ETS’ integrated transit network, is set to launch in mid-2021 and will be part of a 2-year pilot project.

In mid-2021, Edmonton Transit Service’s (ETS) new On Demand Transit service will add a new layer of service in our integrated transit network. It will complement the regular bus network and LRT service. This service will be provided as part of a 2-year pilot project. ETS is developing a contract for service delivery and will provide more information as it becomes available.

How On Demand Transit Will Work

Customers will be able to book a ride on an accessible vehicle by using an app on a smart device, telephone or website using Via’s advanced trip planning software. A small bus with a professionally-trained Pacific Western Transportation (PWT) driver will carry customers to and from set pick-up points in their neighbourhood and the designated transit hub. This shared ride service will provide quick and efficient trips by using Via’s advanced trip planning software to match multiple customers headed in the same direction.

For the two-year pilot period, customers won’t pay when they board an On Demand Transit vehicle. Instead, standard fare payment will take place when the customer transfers between On Demand Transit and regular service at an ETS Transit Centre or LRT Station.

More information about the vehicles, how to book a ride and other details will be available when details are finalized.