Scarborough Busway Set to Launch in September 2026, Mayor Confirms

Transit service on the new Scarborough busway will commence in September 2026, as announced by Mayor Olivia Chow during a press conference. This dedicated four-kilometre bus corridor will follow the route of the former Scarborough Rapid Transit (RT), connecting Kennedy Station to Ellesmere Station and facilitating transport for approximately 120,000 people each week.

Chow highlighted the benefits of the busway, stating, “Buses won’t sit in traffic and they’ll move faster.” The anticipated travel time from Scarborough Centre Station to Kennedy Station is expected to be around 15 minutes once the service is operational. This development aims to provide residents of Scarborough with reliable and efficient transit options, addressing long-standing concerns about transportation in the area.

Early Opening and Financial Overview

Originally slated for a 2027 opening, the busway is now projected to launch several months ahead of schedule, with a budget estimated at $93.8 million, as noted in a July update from the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC). The announcement is particularly significant for local residents, who have expressed a need for improved transit solutions.

Councillor Michael Thompson of Scarborough Centre emphasized the importance of this investment, stating, “We want to make it easier for you to travel; we want to reduce the time that it takes you to travel this community. This is going to be a very big, positive investment in our community.”

Since the closure of the Scarborough RT in 2023, the TTC has implemented a replacement bus service to maintain connectivity while the new busway is being developed. Additionally, plans for a subway extension into Scarborough from Kennedy Station are progressing, according to information available on Metrolinx’s website.

The new busway represents a crucial step in enhancing public transit in Scarborough, an area that has been described as “deficient” in transit options for an extended period. With the combination of the busway and future subway developments, local officials are optimistic about the potential for improved transportation experiences for Scarborough’s residents.

Chow concluded by reaffirming the city’s commitment to transforming transit in the region, stating, “The people of Scarborough deserve reliable and efficient transit options.” As the September launch date approaches, the community waits in anticipation for this much-needed upgrade to their transit infrastructure.