After weeks of intense budget scrutiny and advocacy, Guelph City Council voted 7-6 to restore and approve critical funding for Guelph Transit's 2026 budget. This tight vote secures the full expansion of Transit Route 98 (Speedvale), effective November 1, 2026.
The Fight to Save Transit
The 2026 budget process was challenging. Initial proposals threatened to cut or severely delay the Route 98 expansion, which would have pushed all subsequent transit improvements—like better frequency on other key lines—further into the future.
This is where your advocacy came in!
Thanks to the tireless efforts and delegations from TAAG, the Conestoga Students’ Union, and numerous concerned citizens, we were able to flip enough votes to ensure this essential service moved forward. This 7-6 decision is a powerful reminder that your voice matters in local politics. We proved that we can successfully lobby for a Future Ready transit system when we work together.
What This Budget Means for Riders
The hard-won funding translates into tangible benefits for the Guelph community:
- Route 98 Expanded (A Major Equity Win): The route will finally offer full, seven-day-a-week service, including evenings. This is a massive win for workers and students accessing employment and Conestoga College along the corridor who rely on transit outside of traditional weekday hours.
- Affordability Secured: The budget makes the Seniors and Youth Ride Free programs permanent and funds the digitization of the Affordable Bus Pass application process, reducing administrative barriers for those who need it most.
- Modernization: Expect a better experience at the curb with funding confirmed for the activation of digital real-time signs at major shelters.
The Uncomfortable Trade-Off: Increased Fares
While we celebrate the victories, we must also acknowledge the trade-offs. The 2026 budget includes a fare increase for Guelph Transit. While the exact hike varies by pass type, it is expected to raise the monthly fare cap, placing an additional financial burden on riders. TAAG remains committed to advocating for fairer fares in the context of rising service costs, emphasizing that accessibility must not be compromised by affordability.
The Work Continues! Join TAAG Today!
The razor-thin 7-6 victory to save Route 98 shows that progress is never guaranteed. We must use this momentum to continue pushing for the other parts of the Transit Future Ready plan! We need to advocate for better frequency across the network, push for the completion of the new Transit Facility to enable electrification, and fight future fee and fare increases.
Ready to turn your passion into action? Get on board and join TAAG today!
This video, Transit Advocacy in Action: TAAG Defends Transit in the 2026 Budget, provides an excellent visual and auditory account of the kind of delegation work TAAG performs to influence key decisions like the 2026 budget.
