LOYALIST COLLEGE
Quinte Transit and Loyalist College partner to launch Rides on Demand app in the region

Public transit in the region will be enhanced this fall with the launch of a new Rides on Demand app across the Quinte Transit network. Developed through a partnership between Quinte Transit and Loyalist College, the app offers users a convenient way to reach destinations beyond existing routes and schedules. 

The Rides on Demand app, now available on both Google Play and the Apple App Store, allows transit riders to easily choose their region, self-register, and schedule trips that fall outside of regular transit routes and schedules. While this transit service has been available for several years, the app streamlines the booking process, making it significantly easier and more accessible for users.

Loyalist College initiated the partnership with Quinte Transit after identifying a growing need for more transportation options for students, particularly those travelling to classes, placements and other activities not fully covered by existing transit routes. Together, Loyalist and Quinte Transit devised a solution: the Rides on Demand app. This partnership not only supports students but also benefits the wider community by providing more accessible and convenient transit options.

Quinte Transit, a vital public transportation provider in the Bay of Quinte region, has been connecting the City of Quinte West directly to Loyalist College in Belleville since August 2021. As students return for the Fall semester this month, the Rides on Demand app will enhance their ability to access educational and work opportunities across the Quinte area. This innovative micro-transit platform bridges the gap between traditional fixed-route transit and individualized transportation, offering all residents greater flexibility in planning their transit journeys.

Shelly Ackers, Executive Director of Quinte Transit, noted that transit riders can still call in or use the organization's online form to book customized trips. The Rides on Demand app is an extension of the service, offering more convenience to users. "We are very excited to launch this new app to further enhance the rider experience and open new opportunities for riders in our community. We are so pleased to work with Loyalist on this project, and we look forward to continuing down this road to grow our regional transit service."

According to a recent economic impact study, Loyalist College and its students support one in twenty-four jobs in the region. There is an increasing demand for varied transit options to connect students to placements, workplaces and homes beyond the Belleville campus. So far in 2024, more than 1,250 Loyalist students have engaged in work-integrated learning placements across Hastings, Prince Edward, and Lennox and Addington counties.

Improved mobility enhances the quality of life of all residents of the region and is especially crucial for students whose activities may be limited by access to a personal vehicle.

"I applaud Loyalist College and Quinte Transit on the launch of the new Rides on Demand app delivering accessible and convenient public transit service to Quinte West customers across the Quinte region," said Quinte West Mayor Jim Harrison. "No matter where Quinte West residents live, work or play, this innovative public transportation technology enhances access to local employment, education and recreation opportunities by expanding our community's connectivity."

"We're proud to partner with Quinte Transit to help bring Rides on Demand to the region, a key initiative that expands our students' options for where they live and work during their time at Loyalist and beyond," said Sandra Dupret, Senior Vice President, Students at Loyalist College. "Improved transportation services empower students to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and choose living arrangements that best suit their needs."