The Solution

Cobourg Rides launched on April 19, 2021. This is an on-demand transit service for the town of Cobourg, offering convenient pick-up locations and dynamic routing. 

For the town of Cobourg converting the existing transit system to an on-demand model was the right-sized solution. Riders can book, pay, track, and rate their rides from a computer, tablet, or smartphone using the Pick-Up On Demand app on Google Play, the App Store, or via phone. Bookings can be made immediately and up to one week in advance.

The service was deployed in two distinct phases to ensure the successful adoption of this new mode of operation. The first phase (Soft Launch) began on April 19, 2021, providing WHEELS transit members with access to on demand transit for all hours of operations and all riders the option of utilizing the on demand service in the evenings and on weekends. Riders could also continue to utilize the Conventional Transit during the weekdays until 5 p.m. The second phase (Full Launch) began on June 14 and had both the WHEELS and Conventional Transit riders switched to the on demand operation model.

Results

The Cobourg Rides on-demand transit service has substantially reduced wait and travel times for the Town – all of this while leaving a reduced carbon footprint in their Town. Users of the system book the majority of their trips on the same day, making the most of the on-demand service’s flexibility.

Initial feedback from the community has allowed Cobourg to refine its wait times and accessibility during busier times. Additionally, service has expanded to areas that previously had no service coverage by adding virtual stops, and despite COVID-19 restrictions, ridership is in steady and increased demand.

The Solution

This service provides vital connectivity to communities that do not have conventional transit services. It allows customers to book travel as needed, pick up and drop off at any existing stops in the community and other major locations e.g. Westhills, 69 Street Station, grocery stores, large commercial areas, North Pointe transit hub and amenities.

Rides cost the same as any Calgary Transit fare — $3.40 per adult and $2.35 for youth six to 17 — with transfers given to riders switching to another bus. Different service times are offered between the north and the south programs.

Results

Since its launch in 2019, the service has exceeded expectations on all levels. During its first seven months, a city report on the project showed that the pilot surpassed its four main goals — for ridership, customer satisfaction, app downloads, and cost-per-ride.

Because of the initial successes of the project, there are expansion opportunities into other communities or replacing underutilized conventional transit routes within the city.

The Solution

A responsive, demand-based transit system that provides local residents with an affordable and accessible transit option was chosen to address the town’s need for inclusion and accessibility. By analyzing the unique needs of the Cochrane community, we were able to develop a transportation solution that offered seamless connectivity for residents. The COLT system connects the smaller and underserved regions of the community and gives independence to those who would have formerly relied on friends and family as their primary form of travel.

The service enables all residents and visitors to travel around Cochrane easily with accessible stops all over town to better meet residents’ needs and priorities. Users can book service online or over the phone to receive wheelchair-accessible transportation within the town’s boundary. Looking to the future, ongoing planning and modelling of this integrated regional service will allow users to seamlessly connect via a hub to Calgary’s commuter service.

Results

The launch of the COLT program had immense demand: over 12,000 riders during the first 3 months and over 5,000 created accounts. COLT implemented free rides first 3 months of the program. The second half of the program occurred during COVID-19, and the flexible nature of the service allowed COLT to adjust to demand. During this time, they were able to save resources and offer free transportation. It also allowed Cochrane to save high amounts in overall fleet costs, infrastructure and technology. Reducing the operation of the vehicles during this time to adapt to the demand has allowed for lower mileage and lower gasoline consumption.

Overall, the implementation of the COLT service has allowed Cochrane to save millions annually.