Ridership has decreased on Brampton Transit.

Fewer passengers are riding the bus in Brampton, forcing the city to reconsider how it delivers transit service.

The city is examining “service adjustments” that will lead to a reduction of travel options for passengers who rely on public transit to get to and from work, school, and other locations across the city.

As well, to reduce costs, the city is calling on transit workers to accept a buyout package.

“This is serious,” a person familiar with the situation told INsauga.com. “The city is going to have to do something because the riders are just not there anymore, at least not like they used to be.”

It’s no secret that Brampton has seen a decrease in ridership in the past year, which has been attributed to the federal government putting the brakes on immigration and reducing the number of foreign students allowed into the country.

City numbers show that transit users declined by 20 per cent in 2025 from the previous year, and that lost revenue has amounted to $26 million.

“Brampton Transit has experienced a decline in ridership following federal immigration policy changes introduced in 2024, which reduced population growth and international student enrolment – both historically significant contributors to transit demand. In response, the city is taking a thoughtful and measured approach to align service delivery and organizational resources with current trends and long-term sustainability,” reads a statement released by the city.

Another aspect of the “adjustment” phase is seen in a memo sent to transit workers last Friday (March 27) that asks them to take part in a “voluntary exit initiative” or VEI.

“The VEI is intended to encourage employees to voluntarily leave their position with Brampton Transit on June 14, 2026, by mutual agreement and receive compensation,” according to a memo sent to the workers and obtained by INsauga.com.

As an incentive to get transit workers to leave, Brampton is offering $25,000 as compensation to those with the least seniority.

Eligible workers have until April 16 to accept the payment package. Brampton has not indicated how many positions it wants to eliminate.

The Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1573 represents the 1,500 drivers, maintenance, and office staff of Brampton Transit. The union has not yet publicly responded to the city’s plans.

 


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