Get ready to board the Primary Transit Network

Old Kildonan

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 12/03/2025 (211 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The Winnipeg Transit Master Plan is putting in motion this summer in a massive way. Community members who take the bus take notice – Winnipeg Transit is replacing its entire network of bus routes and stops. The goal is transit service that is more frequent, direct, connected, and easy to use.

On Saturday, June 28, buses will travel on routes such as the 18, 38, and 77 for the last time. The next day, all new bus routes – with new stops, streets, and destinations – will begin to operate. This will be the biggest service change in Winnipeg Transit history. Only a handful of routes will be similar to before.

“Winnipeggers want bus service they can rely on, that can take them from anywhere in Winnipeg to anywhere in Winnipeg,” explained Kevin Sturgeon, senior transit planner with Winnipeg Transit. “The new bus network is designed with these goals in mind.”

The backbone of the new system is the Primary Transit Network. Its higher-frequency routes, or ‘lines’, are straight, designed for efficient cross-town travel. Feeder routes will help people travel within communities and connect to the Primary Transit Network. They will also stay out of congested areas, which helps them stay on schedule.

On-Request service serves a similar purpose to feeder routes. It operates in areas with lower demand for transit outside of peak hours. When On-Request is operating, passengers request to be picked up near their locations and dropped off anywhere else within their zones.

So how should bus passengers get ready?

All new bus routes may seem intimidating. But regular Transit riders will be familiar with the best tools for using the new network. That’s because they’re the same tools you use now – Navigo, a third-party transit schedule app, or 311.

Schedules for the new network will be available at the end of April, and that’s when you can start planning trips.

You’ll also start seeing signals the new network is coming soon, all across Winnipeg. All bus stops are getting new signs, along with temporary notices about the service change. There will also be changes to bus stops. Some stops will be moved to make transfers easier, with improved spacing. Some stops will also be upgraded over the next couple of years as part of the project. Stop upgrades will include infrastructure, such as shelters, accessible platforms, and information displays.

You can visit winnipeg.ca/primarytransitnetwork to learn more about the new network. And mark your calendars for June 29.