This week marks the long-anticipated start of construction on the Durham–Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit (DSBRT) corridor, a transformative infrastructure project first proposed in 2007 and approved over a decade ago. Beginning the week of August 5, 2025, work will kick off along Kingston Road (Highway 2) in Ajax, from approximately 300 metres west of Harwood Avenue to Galea Drive. This section is the first phase of the expansive 36-kilometre rapid transit route designed to connect Durham Region to Scarborough. In addition, it is valued at over C$1 billion, the segment will introduce dedicated median bus lanes, raised transit platforms, upgraded signals, accessible sidewalks, in-boulevard cycling lanes, underground utilities, and modern landscaping, paving the way for a more connected and efficient regional transport system.
Integrated Infrastructure to Support Active Mobility
The DSBRT has been carefully crafted to promote a multimodal transportation experience. Beyond just bus lanes, the project includes median transit platforms, pedestrian-friendly sidewalks, and protected cycle tracks with crossrides to encourage active travel. Infrastructure enhancements also involve watermain and sanitary sewer upgrades, street lighting, and accessibility improvements. Additionally, KAPP Infrastructure, the lead contractor, is set to mobilize on-site as construction ramps up, targeting completion of this phase by June 2027. The project is being delivered in collaboration with municipal partners through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), ensuring robust public-private cooperation.
Transforming Regional Transit with Efficiency and Scale
Once fully operational, the DSBRT will offer two-way bus service at five-minute intervals, significantly reducing travel times by as much as 20 minutes across the corridor. Spanning 36 kilometres with 49 stops, the route will serve high-density areas in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and Scarborough. What’s more, projections estimate over 38,000 daily riders by 2041. With 43,000 new residents and 26,000 new jobs expected within walking distance of the route by then. The corridor is positioned to play a critical role in regional growth and sustainable urban development.
Also Read $34 Billion Trans-Mountain Pipeline Expansion Opens in Canada After Several Years of Delay
Navigating Disruptions and Building Toward the Future
During construction, temporary lane closures and traffic shifts, especially around Harwood and Galea, are expected. Businesses will remain accessible and “Open for Business” signage will help maintain visibility. While noise and vibrations are inevitable, mitigation strategies and community engagement plans are in place.
Also Read $414M Contract Awarded for Franconia-Springfield Rail Bypass
A notable design feature of the DSBRT is its hybrid layout, developed by Metrolinx, which combines center-running bus lanes in wide corridors with curbside lanes in tighter urban zones. This approach balances transit efficiency with local accessibility and may allow for future conversion into a light rail line. Furthermore, the design’s adaptability reflects forward-thinking infrastructure planning. It ensures the DSBRT can evolve alongside the region’s needs for decades to come.
Durham–Scarborough Bus Rapid Transit Project Overview
Project Scope: 36-kilometre rapid transit corridor from Scarborough to Oshawa via Pickering, Ajax, and Whitby.
Phase One Location: Kingston Road (Highway 2) in Ajax, from west of Harwood Avenue to Galea Drive.
Estimated Cost: Over C$1 billion for the entire corridor.
Key Features: Dedicated bus lanes, median stations, cycle tracks, pedestrian upgrades, sewer/watermain improvements, and landscaping.
Start and Completion Dates: Construction begins August 2025, with completion of phase one expected by June 2027.
Lead Contractor: KAPP Infrastructure.
Funding Program: Delivered under the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP).
Projected Impact: 38,000+ daily riders by 2041; travel time reduced by up to 20 minutes.
Future-Proof Design: Hybrid layout allows future conversion to light rail, adaptable to growth and changing transit needs.
