Burlington Transit faces shortage of drivers, cancelling many routes daily
Published October 29, 2021 at 3:23 pm
Burlington transit users have been dealing with a rash of cancelled buses over the last few days, including many leaving from local GO stations.
The following buses have been cancelled on Oct. 27: 10W from Appleby GO at 3, 4:30, 6:30, 7, 8, 8:30 p.m.; 10E from Burlington GO at 3:45, 5:45, 6:15, 7:15, 7:45, 8:45 p.m.;12W from Dundas at 6:47, 7:47, 8:47, 9:47 p.m.; 12E from Burlington GO at 6:20, 7:20, 8:20, 9:20 p.m. (1/3)
— Burlington Transit (@BurlONTransit) October 27, 2021
Originally, there was no explanation for the changes, however Burlington Transit released information today on the cause.
“We have been experiencing trip cancellations due to staff shortages caused by a number of driver vacancies as well as drivers on long-term disability and taking sick time,” according to a Burlington Transit spokesperson.
“We apologize for the inconvenience this has caused you. We are looking into what options are available to fill these staff shortages, both in the immediate future and for the long term.”
It is unknown if the driver shortages are related at all to the COVID-19 vaccine policy for city workers. Staff who either aren’t vaccinated or refuse to divulge their vaccination status are expected to provide negative COVID-19 tests twice-weekly. Transit staff have not responded to questions about this.
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Riders are encouraged to check the MyRide website for cancellations and sign up for text notifications. Customers can call also contact customer service at [email protected] or 905-639-0550.
We apologize for recent trip cancellations due to staff shortages. Please check MyRide for cancellations & sign up for texts. Visit https://t.co/8O5DdeoASE. pic.twitter.com/6Ji9s3lW0k
— Burlington Transit (@BurlONTransit) October 29, 2021
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