Ridership growing on new DRT Route 618

DARRYL KNIGHT The Standard

NORTH DURHAM: Durham Region Transit’s new fixed-route bus service, in North Durham, is quickly gaining traction, with more than 2,100 riders boarding Route 618 since its launch in May.

According to newly released July data, the service which connects Port Perry, Sunderland, Cannington, and Beaverton with a consistent weekday schedule, recorded 2,141 boardings, in just three months. Officials say, the numbers are a promising sign, residents are embracing the convenience of a scheduled bus.

“This is fantastic news for North Durham,” said Brock Mayor Mike Jubb. “We’ve been advocating for improved, reliable transit connections for years, and it’s great to see the community responding so positively to Route 618.”

The new route was introduced earlier this year, on May 5th, as part of Durham Region’s 2025 budget commitment to add nearly 70,000 transit service hours across the system. The fixed route eliminates the need to pre-book, making travel simpler between North Durham communities.

Scugog Mayor, Wilma Wotten said, the early ridership numbers show the impact of giving residents more dependable options. “Route 618 is helping people get to work, school and appointments, in a way which wasn’t always possible before. This is about more than just transportation, it’s about connection and opportunity for our communities.”

Community members are also noticing the difference. Sunderland resident, Jennifer Watson, who works part-time in Port Perry, said, the new route has been a game changer for her daily routine. “Before, I was relying on rides from family or trying to book on-demand trips which weren’t always available. Now, I know exactly when the bus is coming, and I can plan my day with a lot less stress. It’s given me independence I didn’t have before.”

Bill Holmes, General Manager of Durham Region Transit, said, the ridership milestone reflects a strong start. “We are very encouraged by the uptake on Route 618. This service provides a reliable and accessible option for residents, and, we look forward to building on this success, as more improvements roll out later this year.”

While ridership on Route 618 is on the rise, the on-demand service in North Durham continues to face challenges from high unaccommodating trip rates. DRT officials expect the situation to improve this autumn, as new vehicles and drivers are added through the 2025 budget.

Route 618 is one of several recent service enhancements, aimed at boosting capacity and reliability across Durham Region.