Updated Nov. 9, 2020
Across our communities, we know that transportation access can unlock economic and social mobility. Our mission is to improve people’s lives with the world’s best transportation by providing more ways to get around the city without the need to own a car, helping riders save time and money. That’s why we’re working to make transportation more equitable and enhance mobility options while taking cars off the road.
We've added public transit information directly into the Lyft app in the Greater Toronto Hamilton Area (GTHA) and Ottawa. Lyft riders in the GTHA and Ottawa can now see transit options in the app from the TTC, GO Transit, UP Express, York Region Transit, OC Transpo, MiWay, Brampton Transit and Hamilton Street Railway. This includes details about nearby routes, upcoming departures, trip options including transit, and (for nearby destinations) walking directions to give riders more ways to get to their destination.
“Transit services are an essential part of urban transportation and we’re proud to help riders find their way on public transit,” said Hannah Parish, Lyft’s Ontario General Manager. “Especially now, it’s crucial for local Lyft riders, especially those who don’t own a personal vehicle, to be able to compare all of their transportation options, whether that includes biking, walking, public transit, or rideshare.”
Lyft riders will be able to choose the transportation option that best fits their trip and budget, all within the Lyft app. It’s another step toward providing effective, equitable, and sustainable transportation to our communities, and towards creating a more seamless and connected transportation network.
“Brampton Transit is a leader in accessible transit. Having our local transit information available to Lyft users through our open data portal will make it easier for residents and visitors to get around Brampton and connect to other cities using public transit. It is a challenging time, and we remind riders to wear a mask and practice good hygiene when they board our buses,” said Alex Milojevic, General Manager, Brampton Transit.
“Public transit is a low-cost and easy transportation option to get around our nation’s capital, so I’m pleased that OC Transpo’s open data feed is now being incorporated into the Lyft app. Having transit information readily available to travellers will help them to consider transit as part of the options to get to their destinations,” said Pat Scrimgeour, Director of Customer Systems and Planning, Transportation Services Department, City of Ottawa.
At Lyft, we’ve long partnered with cities and transit agencies across North America. As cities explore how new mobility options fit into their communities, we’re expanding our work with cities, transportation and planning departments, public transportation agencies, and other companies to define the future of mobility. According to our Economic Impact Report, 56% of Lyft riders in Toronto and 44% in Ottawa have used a Lyft service to get to or from public transit. We consistently strive to increase that percentage as we move into a multimodal future.
Transit in Lyft is now available in 14 markets across North America, including Vancouver, New York and Chicago.