Transportation

New Shuttle Service Connects Scarborough Residents to Go Transit

A pilot transit shuttle has launched in Scarborough, bridging underserved neighbourhoods with the GO Transit network during peak hours.

By Feather Sand Chronicles Editorial Team | April 06, 2025 at 10:46

A new pilot shuttle service is now connecting residents of eastern Scarborough with GO Transit hubs, marking a major step toward bridging transit gaps in underserved neighbourhoods. The Scarborough Community Connector, a collaboration between Metrolinx and the City of Toronto, began operating Monday morning with service to Rouge Hill and Guildwood GO stations.

The shuttle, which runs during weekday peak hours, uses electric minibuses to loop through residential zones that previously lacked efficient access to regional transit. Stops include Kingston-Galloway, Morningside Heights, and areas near Lawrence Avenue East. The goal is to reduce reliance on personal vehicles and improve last-mile connectivity.

Transit officials say the need for such a service became clear during consultations for the Scarborough Subway Extension project. 'Many residents told us they felt cut off from the broader network,' said Metrolinx spokesperson Dalia Greene. 'This shuttle helps close that gap without requiring a full bus line.'

The pilot program is free for the first three months, after which fares will align with TTC transfer policies. Riders can track shuttles in real time using a mobile app developed specifically for the program, which also includes accessibility and safety features.

Community feedback will be a key factor in determining the service’s future. Already, local councillors and residents have praised the move as a meaningful investment in mobility. 'This is what transit equity looks like—meeting people where they are,' said Scarborough Councillor Riya Patel.

If successful, the Scarborough Community Connector model could be replicated in other areas of the city facing similar challenges. Planners say the pilot is part of a broader effort to rethink urban transportation in Toronto’s outer regions, where density is growing but services often lag behind.