Update — Thursday, April 23, 8:28 a.m.: Barrie Transit extends the free-ride period to May 31.

Update — Friday, April 3, 8:02 a.m.: Barrie Transit revises services, starting Monday, April 6.

Barrie Transit passengers can ride buses free of fare, starting Friday, March 20, as the transit agency responds to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Free rides are available until April 6.

According to Barrie Transit, “Offering free transit creates the opportunity to have riders board from back door, which reduces risk to transit operators and further supports physical distancing. Riders must board and exit the bus from the rear door only. People with accessible needs can continue to board using the front doors.”

Barrie Transit explains, “It is critical for people to have the ability to ride the bus to get basic things like groceries or to jobs that we rely on. The City [of Barrie] has been putting increased measures in place to protect drivers and riders during this time.”

To further encourage physical distancing, BT staff have taped off every other seat and limiting buses to no more than 15 passengers.

Barrie Transit will refund or credit the cost of March and April transit monthly passes on a prorated basis for the period of time Barrie Transit is free to the public. Riders should hold on to their March/April transit pass. The transit agency will provide refunds or credits when the City can resume public-facing services to the community.