Ride Norfolk has launched Phase 1 of its new booking app.
The app, launched earlier this month, enables riders on the Brantford line, to guarantee their seat and track the bus in real-time on their mobile device. Riders can also receive notifications on their device alerting them to delays or disruptions.
Riders can also pay for their trips through the app.
The app is part of a one-year pilot partnership with Blaise Transit, which makes all stops on the Brantford line bookable on the existing scheduled.
Riders are encouraged to download the Blaise Transit app. It can be found at www.norfolkcounty.ca/transit/ridenorfolkapp/ .
Trips can also be called in or booked online.
When Phase 2 of the pilot project launches in July, Ride Norfolk’s local routes will become an “on demand” service. Riders will be able to book trips on a first come, first served basis between 7:30 am and 6 pm
Users will be able to book a stop-to-stop ride during all service hours, but some restrictions will apply. Riders will also be able to pay for their rides digitally and plans call for more stops to be added throughout Simcoe.
By moving away from a fixed schedule locally, riders will access a more direct service, decreasing travel time on-board, and improving access to areas of Norfolk, the county said.
Meanwhile, Ride Norfolk received funding from the provincial government through the gas tax program. The funding can be used to provide extended hours, purchase more transit vehicles, add routes, and improve accessibility/upgrade infrastructure.
“We’re thrilled to continue being a recipient of the Ontario Gas Tax Program,” Blaire Sylvester, the county’s public transportation and business development coordinator, said in a release. “We’re making exciting improvements to Ride Norfolk in 2023 and this funding will certainly help.”
For schedules, maps, and other details visit the www.norfolkcounty.ca/transit/ .
Ride Norfolk is a public transit service operating a Monday to Friday bus service with daily Simcoe and Brantford routes. The service provides connections to Go Transit and other communities during the week.