Travel Tips & Safety
Snow Clearing – Bus Stops and Terminals
Clearing snow from roads and sidewalks is the responsibility of the City’s Roads Division. Bus stops and terminals are maintained by the Transit Division. When snow accumulation exceeds 5 cm, roads are cleared first, followed by sidewalks. Bus stops are done last and will generally be cleared within 72 hours, after roads and sidewalks have been cleared.
Some stops are classed as priority stops, based on usage and location. Attempts are made to clear these stops first. All efforts are made to maintain bus stop and terminal platforms in a safe, snow-free condition - however, this cannot be accomplished instantaneously. Heavy snowfalls or icing conditions that develop as a result of freeze/thaw cycles may require multiple rounds of cleaning after City sidewalk plowing has been completed.
For inquiries regarding snow clearing at bus stops and terminals, please contact 684-3744 or email transit@thunderbay.ca.
Video Surveillance at Thunder Bay Transit
Why install video surveillance?
Thunder Bay Transit continually strives to improve customer service. Installing surveillance cameras on buses is one way we are enhancing the service we provide to our community and passengers.
The installation of surveillance cameras is intended to improve the protection and safety of employees and the general public, to reduce and deter incidents of vandalism or criminal activity, and for the protection of property and assets.
Read more on the Video Surveillance FAQ's web page.
TIPS FOR TRANSIT RIDERS
Whether you are a long-time Transit rider or a new one, these “10 Great Tips” will save you time, money, and make riding Transit easier!
For even more Transit information, see the Transit map, the City of Thunder Bay Blue Pages, or visit the Transit Home page. You will find information on accessibility, bus pass outlets, routes, schedules and more. Check out these rider-friendly tips and give Thunder Bay Transit a try!
Tip 1 - Let Us Help You Get Started
Need to ride a new route? Call the Information Line at 684-3744. Our friendly staff will help you with route planning, fares, transfer locations, bus stop numbers, best travel times and more.
Tip 2 - Avoid Waiting
The time it takes to check your bus schedule can save you a lot of waiting time. To keep your wait time as short as possible, Thunder Bay Transit offers several ways to get bus schedule information:
- Call Teleride at 684-3744, a 24-hour, seven-day-a-week automated phone information system
- Use pocket timetables, available free of charge from Transit
- Check our Home Page for the NextBus GPS system for real time bus location
If you have any questions about schedule options, call the Information Line at 684-3744. To avoid the longest wait remember the last buses of the day leave City Hall at 11:40 pm Monday through Saturday and Sunday at 10:20 pm. The last buses of the day leave Water Street Terminal at 12 am Monday through Saturday and 10:40 pm Sundays.
Tip 3 - Get Your “Fare” Deal
Thunder Bay Transit offers discounts on tickets and weekly and monthly passes. Make sure you are getting the “fare” deal you deserve. Valid photo ID is required for discount monthly passes. For even more savings, ask for your free “Power Hour” transfer. Ride as much as you want for the next 60 minutes – including stopovers and even return trips, on one fare. Ask for your transfer when you board the bus, as the driver cannot issue a transfer later because of the expiry time.
Tip 4 - Night Stop Program
The Night Stop Program provides for extra safety at night. After dark, just ask your driver to drop you off between bus stops, closer to your destination.
Tip 5 - Give Yourself Time
Our drivers do their best to be on time, but road, traffic and weather conditions may make buses a bit early or late. Arrive at your stop a few minutes early – then sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
Tip 6 - Ride Safely
Thunder Bay Transit wants to get you safely to your destination. Here's how you can help:
- Don’t run across the street for a bus – and never run in front of a bus. The driver and other motorists may not see you.
- Sit or stand still inside a moving bus, because a sudden stop may catch you by surprise.
- If your bus is leaving the stop without you, try to signal the bus driver. He or she will try to help you – safety permitting. However, if the bus is in the middle of an intersection, or traffic is moving, the driver may not be able to stop for you.
- Wait for your bus in a safe location. If you can, find a well-lit bus stop or one with other passengers and pedestrians nearby.
- Use our Night Stop Program after dark.
- In the event of an emergency, a bus driver can radio our Control Office for help from Police, Fire or Ambulance. If you need assistance or witness an emergency, ask a Thunder Bay Transit Operator for help.
Tip 7 - Board with the Right Fare
Being prepared with the right fare speeds boarding and makes every trip faster. Check for fares before your trip or ask another waiting passenger.
Tip 8 - Take Us to More Places
According to the Canadian Automobile Association, it costs over $9,000 a year to operate an average new car. In Thunder Bay, unlimited Transit Passes cost an adult about $780 a year and much less for students, seniors or children. Taking Transit eliminates parking problems and saves on vehicle wear and tear. Before hopping in a car, consider Transit for convenient trips to your destinations.
Tip 9 - Respect Other Riders
Public Transit means you are sharing a trip and sharing space with other passengers. Respect those you are riding with, and you can expect their respect in return. Here are examples of the most frequent complaints we get about other riders:
- Strollers blocking the aisle
- Passengers occupying more than one seat – even with bags or parcels
- Healthy passengers not offering priority seating to elderly or disabled riders
- Foul language
- Loud conversations, music and cell-phone calls
- Clogging the front of the bus when there is space at the back
- Eating or drinking on board
- Leaving newspapers or litter on the bus
- Vandalism and graffiti
- Not exiting by the rear doors
Common courtesy among passengers can make everyone’s trip more pleasant!
Tip 10 - Smile!
Riding Transit can be a lot easier and a lot more pleasant with a little smile. Passengers and drivers alike have good days and bad days. Our drivers serve thousands of passengers and answer hundreds of questions every day – and occasionally, a dispute may arise. If you have an issue with a driver, please let the driver focus on driving then call our Customer Service line at 684-3744. We have staff specially assigned to follow up on any passenger complaints. Compliments are also welcome!
Enjoy the Ride!
Your Thunder Bay Transit System is at your service, every day. We hope you find these tips helpful, and we look forward to welcoming you on board soon – and often!
