Charlottetown’s weekend bus service has seen significant improvements recently. T3 Transit introduced new Saturday and Sunday trips on six different routes, including the 2, 3, 10, 11, 12, and 23, expanding their service to seven days a week.
Councilor Trevor MacKinnon, who leads the city’s environment and sustainability committee, noted that this enhancement marks the most substantial service increase since T3 Transit’s inception over two decades ago. MacKinnon highlighted that this year alone saw a 15% rise in route availability, reflecting a proactive response to the evolving demand from diverse rider groups.
According to T3 Transit, the inaugural Sunday service on August 16 garnered a remarkable increase in ridership, with a 40% surge compared to typical figures for that period. MacKinnon attributed the weekend expansion and additional trips to a comprehensive public transit plan consultation in 2024, which gathered feedback from nearly 400 respondents, emphasizing the need for enhanced services beyond traditional work hours.
The progression from consultation to implementation involved the procurement of new vehicles, including two electric mini-buses recently acquired by the city. MacKinnon mentioned that 17 new buses have been ordered since December 2025 to replace older ones gradually. In tandem with vehicle upgrades, route adjustments were made to extend bus coverage into residential neighborhoods, addressing the city’s expanding geography and the escalating demand for public transportation.
Despite a slowdown in Charlottetown’s population growth due to changes in international student enrollment and temporary residency patterns, MacKinnon affirmed that the demand for transit services remains robust. While student ridership experiences a slight decline attributed to fewer international students, the general population’s reliance on public transport remains steady.
MacKinnon emphasized that the expanded bus service not only caters to commuters but also contributes to alleviating parking congestion and lowering emissions, underscoring the broader benefits of sustainable urban mobility solutions.