Banner with an image of an Orangeville Transit bus on the left and the text 'Fare Free Transit - Helping our community stay on the move' on the right. An orange transit-themed icon is also on the right.

Transit is becoming more accessible – and affordable – for residents with the removal of the financial barrier for those who need it and can benefit from it the most.

In January 2023, a two-year pilot program was launched, acting as a feasibility study to determine whether fare-free transit will better serve the Town.

What are the benefits of a fare-free transit model?

  • Increases access to employment opportunities for more residents who do not have reliable transportation.
  • Removes financial barriers for those who can benefit the most.
  • Encourages more residents to utilize transit, decreasing the number of vehicles on the road.
  • Assists in creating a more environmentally sustainable future by providing more transit options to meet the needs of our residents.

How will the pilot program work?

During the pilot period, anyone who rides Orangeville Transit can do so without paying a fare. Town Staff continue to collect data, updating Council regularly on how the program is performing. This includes information about ridership numbers, the financial impact of the program and more.

At the end of the pilot, the success of the program will be assessed for Council to determine whether or not to move forward.

Ridership Update - September 2024

The Town of Orangeville’s two-year fare-free transit pilot program has been extended until July 21, 2027. Since the launch of the program, ridership has more than doubled. A staff report was presented to Council on Sept. 23, 2024, presenting data demonstrating the pilot's success so far. 

By extending the pilot program, staff will have the opportunity to see whether ridership trends continue to be positive. The gas tax offset, which will also assist with the cost of running Orangeville Transit,  has a ‘lag’ period of two years, meaning the municipality will not receive the amount for 2023 until 2025. The Town now has the opportunity to include the gas tax data in future reports.

Ridership Data 2019 - 2024
201920202021202220232024 (First Half)2024 (Full Projected)
102,898 103,091 91,203 191,261 225,705 120,879 262,780

View the full September 23, 2024 report 

Frequently Asked Questions

Do transit riders need to obtain a monthly pass or ticket to get on the bus?
No – all riders will get on the bus for free, and no passes are required to do so. 
Does this apply to all residents?
Yes – all riders can ride for free for the two year pilot period. 
What happens if I purchased a 2023 bus pass?

Please visit customer service to obtain a refund. You can visit Customer Service in person at 87 Broadway or call 519-941-0440.