Transit's Role in Advancing Council's Strategic Plan: A 2023 Look Back
In 2023, Red Deer Transit played a pivotal role in advancing the outcomes of Council’s Strategic Plan, with a focus on building an inclusive community, being environmentally committed, and providing a positive customer experience.
The transit system achieved significant milestones, including an overall 83% on-time rate and facilitating 1.8 million trips, demonstrating its importance in connecting residents to the places that make our community thrive.
Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusivity
A key component of Red Deer Transit’s Services is the Action Bus, designed to provide transportation for citizens unable to use regular transit due to disabilities or other specific needs. By ensuring accessible, dignified transportation for persons with disabilities, seniors, and children, the Action Bus reflects The City’s commitment to fostering an inclusive community. Every registered client benefits from tailored door-to-door service and the exceptional customer service from transit operators.
62,545 trips were delivered by the Action Bus in 2023.
Environmental Commitment
Red Deer Transit is committed to supporting The City’s environmentally committed goals by reducing traffic congestion, emissions, and encouraging the use of public transit. Many of Red Deer’s buses already run on compressed natural gas (CNG), significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fuels. Additionally, The City is actively working toward greening the fleet, a key part of the long-term Environmental Master Plan to promote sustainability.
Positive Customer Experience
Throughout its services, Red Deer Transit prioritizes a positive customer experience. With punctuality at 83%, passengers can trust that their trips will be efficient and reliable. The Dynamic Shuttle Service, which operates from 8 p.m. to midnight after the non-core regular fixed routes have ended, offers flexible, demand-based transportation for late-night commuters. Departing every 15 and 45 minutes from Sorensen Station, this service ensures residents can continue to rely on transit even during non-peak hours.
Dedicated, contracted school routes also provide safe and dependable transportation for students, ensuring peace of mind for families. These efforts align with The City’s focus on delivering responsive, customer-centered services that enhance the quality of life for Red Deerians.
Connecting Communities and the Future
The BOLT On-demand Transit service links Blackfalds residents to Red Deer, fostering regional cooperation and supporting economic growth. This service extends transit’s role beyond city limits, creating stronger connections between neighboring communities.
Through innovations like the Dynamic Shuttle Service, accessible options like the Action Bus, and its focus on environmental sustainability and fleet greening, Red Deer Transit is more than just a transportation system—it’s a key driver of progress, helping the city achieve the strategic outcomes of an inclusive, sustainable, and connected future for all its residents.