ETS needs more buses, hours and routes to address rising demand [Video]

As Edmonton’s population booms, so has demand on the city’s transit system.

According to a recent report from the Edmonton Transit System (ETS), the capital city’s population is expected to grow 5.5 per cent before 2026 – adding strain to a public transit system that is already falling behind.

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The report shows that the ETS has seen its use rebound since dropping off in 2020. With ridership up 14 per cent over last year, 2024 is expected to surpass 2019 numbers.

In order to meet that need, ETS estimates 260 buses out of the fleet of nearly 1,000 will need to be replaced by the end of the budget cycle. Another 99 will need to be added.

ETS is currently operating at about 44,000 hours per week, with staff estimating another 247,500 hours are needed each year to reach ideal …