About Access Transit
Access Transit is a specialized public transportation service that provides on-demand trips for individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities who cannot take fixed-route transit due to physical or cognitive limitations. Access operates seven days a week, including stat holidays, and has a fleet of 28 lift-equipped buses that provide trips within the city limits of Saskatoon.
Some applicants may require a mandatory attendant for medical or behavioural reasons, and those who require one will not be permitted to book trips without their direction. Companions are welcome to ride but are not medically required and are expected to pay regular fare.
Access Transit is a shared ride service that operates on a pick-up window of 0 to 20 minutes from the arranged pick-up time. The bus will arrive anytime within that window.
Access Transit has introduced a No-Show and Late Cancellation policy effective April 1, 2022, to curb the high number of no-shows and late-cancelled trips. Accumulation of points above a certain level will result in restricted or limited use of Access Transit. No-Show and Late Cancellation Policy
Additionally, Access Transit staff keeps a record of trips that have not been paid, and an Outstanding Fare policy came into effect on the same date. Customers are able to book a trip with unpaid fare, but once they reach a threshold of 8 unpaid trips, their service will be suspended. Outstanding Fare Policy
Overall, Access Transit provides a crucial service to individuals with disabilities in Saskatoon and aims to provide efficient customer service while also maintaining policies that ensure fair use of their services.
Details:
- Trips are booked up to three days in advance.
- Riders pay the same fare using the same fare payment options as fixed-route transit.
- Many Access Transit customers find using both fixed-route and Access services together to be very convenient to their lifestyle.
- Access drivers provide assistance from accessible door to accessible door.
- Drivers will assist customers up or down no more than one step provided it is safe to do so.
- Access transit is a shared ride service, not a taxi service, so trips are rarely direct from one point to another.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance can I book an Access Transit trip?
You can book your Access Transit trip up to three days in advance.
Is there an ideal time to book my trip?
Avoid booking a trip that may have you arrive before the business opens. Ask if your appointment can be scheduled after the office opens so you do not risk arriving at a locked door. If the bus arrives before the business opens, we cannot wait, and it may affect other passengers' being on time for their appointments.
Can I book multiple trips in one day?
- Yes, you can book up to four one-way trips per day to accommodate your transportation needs, however, we encourage you to Be Flexible and Be Considerate. To provide equal access for all, leisure bookings should be booked in off-peak hours.
- If you need to use Access Transit service for multiple trips, try booking for off-peak hours whenever possible. Peak hours are 7 – 9 am, 12 – 1 pm, 3:30 – 5:30 pm
- If you need to travel multiple times within a day and can utilize fixed-route transportation, we recommend doing so to ensure equal access to all.
How can I travel with fixed-route service?
- Using fixed-route service is easy! All buses have full accessibility for all riders through the use of low-floor buses.
- If you want to be more confident in taking a fixed-route trip, you can sign up for free travel training. Learn more.
- Saskatoon Transit has real-time transit trip planning and tracking through third-party apps like Transit and Google Maps Transit on desktop.
- To buy tickets and passes anytime from anywhere, just download either the TGo or the Transit app and purchase tickets.
Is there a priority system for different types of trips?
Access Transit operates on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is no prioritization based on the type of trip.
What if my appointment isn’t urgent? Should I still book a specific time?
- If your appointment can be flexible, we encourage you to consider adjusting your travel time, especially during off-peak hours. This helps us accommodate all riders efficiently.
- For those who can, we encourage the use of fixed-route transit for some of your trips.
What happens if I need to cancel a booked trip?
We appreciate cancellations made as soon as possible, preferably 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations or no-shows affect other riders' opportunities; please be considerate and cancel responsibly.
Can I update my address or mobility details?
Yes, please inform us promptly if your circumstances change, such as your address or mobility requirements. Accurate information ensures smooth coordination and timely pickups.
How long will the driver wait for me at the pick-up point?
Access Transit operates on a 20-minute booking window. This means that your bus can come anytime within that window, so it is important to be ready and visible for your ride as Punctuality Matters. If your bus shows up and you are not present, the operator will wait up to 5 minutes before reporting it as a no-show and will leave to continue with their schedule.
Can I book a trip for someone else?
Yes, you can book a trip for someone else, but please ensure all details provided are accurate to avoid any inconvenience.
Is there a penalty for late cancellations or no-shows?
- Yes. Access Transit has introduced a No-Show and Late Cancellation Policy effective April 1, 2022, to curb the high number of no-shows and late-cancelled trips. Accumulation of points above a certain level will result in restricted or limited use of Access Transit.
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Points Accumulated Next Steps Late cancellations count as one point. No-shows and cancellations at the door count as two points. 6 Points A formal letter documenting the late cancellations, cancel at the door and no-shows. 12 Points A formal letter outlining the points accumulated and a two-day suspension of Access Transit services. 18 Points A formal letter outlining the points accumulated and a seven-day suspension of Access Transit services. 24 Points A formal letter outlining the points accumulated, a 30-day suspension of Access Transit services, and a phone interview with Access Transit to review service needs. 30 Points A formal letter outlining the points accumulated, a 60-day suspension of Access Transit services, and a phone interview with Access Transit to review service needs. 36 Points A formal letter outlining the points accumulated, a 90-day suspension of Access Transit services, and a phone interview with Access Transit to review service needs.
How can I encourage others to be flexible with their bookings?
Spread the word about the importance of flexible bookings and respectful transit use. Encourage others to adjust their plans if possible and be considerate of fellow riders' needs.
Newsletters
2022 Access Transit December Newsletter
2022 Access Transit July Newsletter
2021 Access Transit December Newsletter
2021 Access Transit June Newsletter
2020 Access Transit December Newsletter
2020 Access Transit October Newsletter
2020 Access Transit April Newsletter
2019 Access Transit December Newsletter