Newmarket's public transit bus rapidway cuts travel times by a third

YorkRegion.com
Oct. 7, 2016
Lisa Queen

Newmarket’s public transit bus rapidway has significantly boosted travel times on Davis Drive, York Region chair Wayne Emmerson said at an event Friday to mark the official completion of the project.

“Along this key urban growth centre, we have an efficient transit system that is now moving people about a third faster than before the addition of rapid transit,” he told a press conference in the parking lot of Southlake Regional Health Centre, with Davis Drive as a backdrop.

“We are seeing increased ridership, which is helping to improve the environment. We are supporting all modes of transportation along this stretch of road – driving, cycling and walking. And with these infrastructure improvements, we are creating the conditions for even greater job creation and economic growth.”

Transportation Minister Steven Del Duca praised the 4.9-kilometre rapidway, which opened to riders late last year.

“Since service was launched on the Davis Drive rapidway in November 2015, it has transformed the way people move here in Newmarket, making travel across the region easier and more convenient,” he said, adding the province is investing $1.4 billion in York Viva bus rapid transit services.

“Opened in January, the new park-and-ride facility, a joint venture between Metrolinx, York Region and the Ministry of Transportation, is providing enhanced connectivity between GO Transit and York Viva services.”

Bus rapidways, in Newmarket and along Hwy. 7 in the south part of the region, are helping to transform communities into places to work and live, said Metrolinx president Bruce McCuaig.

While the construction project was controversial, with some store owners blaming it for lost business, it was worth it, said Newmarket Mayor Tony Van Bynen.

“I know it felt like a long road to get here and it certainly wasn’t easy but the transformation of Davis was necessary and long overdue. Just look how beautiful the end results are today,” he said.

“And while there may still be a bit of work to do during the two-year warranty period, this is necessary to ensure the quality of the infrastructure is built to last. I’m proud of how we looked beyond the short-term disruption to capture the long-term benefits.”