Saskatoon Transit celebrates low floor Access Transit buses

Today, Saskatoon Transit celebrates a milestone on its journey towards providing more accessible options for customers with reduced mobility, providing everyone the freedom and independence to travel safely throughout the city. 

As part of regular transit funding, in part by the Provincial Transit Assistance for People with Disabilities (TAPD) program, Access Transit purchased two low-floor buses. These new buses allow those with reduced mobility the freedom and independence of using a ramp versus a lift or stairs to enter and exit the bus. 

These buses feature a ramp and an innovative INQLINE system to assist operators in boarding passengers safely. The low floor design removes the need to use a lift or stairs to gain access to the bus, creating an improved customer experience.  

“I’m very proud that Access Transit has incorporated low floor buses into the fleet. We are excited to see how these new vehicles will improve accessibility for our passengers,” says Jim McDonald, Director of Saskatoon Transit. 

The addition of these buses allows Saskatoon Transit to bridge the gap between Access Transit and fixed-route transit using a “Family of Services” approach. Access Transit customers now have the option of using a ramp to enter and exit Access Transit buses allowing them to build the confidence to perhaps add the flexibility and spontaneity of fixed-route or On-Demand transit to their transportation options. The City encourages Access Transit customers to use fixed-route services as a supplement to Access Transit when it is convenient for them and when conditions allow.  

To see a video of the low-floor bus ramp visit the City of Saskatoon’s YouTube channel.