About Access Transit
New Access Transit baggage policy starting April 1
Access Transit has a implemented a formal baggage policy to clarify the types and sizes of allowable baggage, restrictions, and passenger responsibilities. The policy aims to enhance safety and improve the overall passenger experience. Policy enforcement begins June 1, 2025. Click here to learn more.
Access Transit is a paratransit service that offers on-demand transportation for individuals with temporary or permanent disabilities who are unable to use fixed-route transit due to physical or cognitive limitations.
Service details:
- Operates 7 days a week, including stat holidays, within Saskatoon.
- 28 fully accessible lift-equipped buses.
- Bookings can be made up to three days in advance.
- Trips are a shared ride service with a pick-up window of 0 to 20 minutes from the scheduled time.
- Regular fares apply, using the same payment options as fixed-route transit.
- Operators can provide assistance from one accessible door to another and help with a maximum of one step up or down, provided it is safe.
Riding with Access Transit:
- Attendants are mandatory for customers needing assistance due to medical or behavioural reasons. They must accompany riders and provide direction for booking trips.
- Companions are individuals who do not have a medical necessity to accompany a customer but are permitted to ride and are required to pay regular fare.
- Trips are rarely direct, as Access Transit is a shared ride service, not a taxi.
- Customers find using fixed-route and Access services together a convenient lifestyle.
Policies for fair use:
- Baggage Policy: Effective April 1, 2025, a baggage policy was introduced to clarify the types and sizes of allowable baggage, restrictions, and passenger responsibilities. The policy aims to enhance safety and improve the overall passenger experience. Policy enforcement begins June 1, 2025
- No-Show & Late Cancellation Policy: Effective April 1, 2022, a point system was implemented to address no-shows and late cancellations, with accumulated points leading to restricted or limited use of Access Transit.
- Outstanding Fare Policy: Effective April 1, 2022, riders with 8 unpaid trips will have their service suspended until fares are paid.
Access Transit enhances mobility for individuals with disabilities while ensuring fair and efficient service.
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.