CKTransit On-Request, Chatham-Kent’s first demand-responsive conventional public transit service, will launch the evening of Monday, March 16.
Municipla officials say this pilot program will operate Monday to Friday in Chatham from 7:15 p.m. to 12:30 a.m.
Unlike the daytime fixed route service, CKTransit On-Request will require riders to request a trip via a mobile application, web portal, or by calling.
A bus will pick up the rider at their bus stop and take them in the most direct manner possible to the bus stop closest to their destination while picking up and dropping off other riders.
No transfers between buses will be required.
Buses will only be dispatched to bus stops when a trip request has been made.
CKTransit On-Request will have no impact on existing daytime transit services.
“This on-demand service model is being adopted by municipalities all across North America,” stated Ian Clark, transit project manager, in a press release .
“It provides a potential alternative to operating expensive fixed routes during times or areas of Chatham-Kent with lower ridership.”
CKTransit has partnered with transportation optimization company Pantonium to power the software behind the service.
Riders may request a trip three ways:
1. Downloading the “On Demand Transit” app available in the App Store or Google Play:
– Set up your account (email required)
– Enter the Transit Code: CK or Chatham
2. Visiting www.cktransit.ca/onrequest:
– Set up your account (email required)
– Enter the Transit Code: CK or Chatham
3. Riders without internet access may request a trip by calling 519-436-3233 (Option 3), beginning this Monday afternoon.
Riders can visit www.cktransit.ca/onrequest for more service information.
