Hamilton transit users can expect some changes for 2022

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Published January 21, 2022 at 3:17 pm

city of hamilton street railway hsr bus buses schedule route planner

The City of Hamilton’s transit division provided an update Friday (Jan. 21) on its 10-year strategy as part of its budget and announced some changes for 2022. Hamilton Street Railway (HSR) users can expect expanded service and a price bump to go along with it.

“The focus of HSR’s proposed 2022 operating budget is to continue to build and maintain a transit system that supports all Hamiltonians,” said Maureen Cosyn Heath, HSR Director of Transit. “A robust transit system is critical to an equitable recovery, will ensure Hamilton is well-positioned to support future economic and population growth and provides residents with a green and affordable transportation option.”

Entering year six of the strategy, the planned changes for this year include:

  • Enhancements to Routes 20 A Line, 22 Upper Ottawa, and 43 Stone Church that will make them more accessible and increase connectivity
  • Approximately 49,000 additional annual service hours
  • 14 additional buses will be added to the fleet
  • $0.05 fare increase effective Sept. 1

Meanwhile, staff says it will be modifying the 10-year transit plans to account for light rail transit (LRT). The updated plan will be presented in the spring.

“Investing in public transit is good for our community because it is an accessible and affordable way to get around for people going to jobs or school and is good for the environment by helping to combat climate change,” said Mayor Fred Eisenberger. “Re-imagining and expanding transit operations will help support our economic recovery from COVID-19.”

HSR says it completed over 9.52 million rides in 2021. However, revenue was down last year — mostly due to COVID-19. Costs were 27.3 per cent higher than the overall revenue.

The full presentation from the city’s transit division can be viewed online.

 

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