Calgary Transit: Transfer Window Extends to Two Hours

CALGARY, AB — Calgary Transit riders will soon have an extra half-hour to make their connections. City Council passed a motion today directing administration to extend the transfer validity period from 90 to 120 minutes.

The motion, sponsored by Councillor Mike Jamieson (Ward 12) and Councillor Landon Johnston (Ward 14), aims to improve affordability and accessibility for transit users navigating the city's bus and CTrain network. Administration has been directed to provide a full implementation report back to Council by April 28.

What Changes for Riders

Currently, Calgary Transit transfers expire 90 minutes from the time of issue. The extended window would give riders two full hours to complete their journey, including transfers between buses and CTrains. The change targets seniors, students, low-income residents, and those with mobility challenges who may need additional time between connections.

The motion comes as Calgary Transit navigates shifting ridership patterns. The system recorded 93.1 million trips in 2025 using new Automated Passenger Counting systems, down slightly from a recalculated 93.7 million in 2024. Safety and service quality remain persistent concerns for some riders.

The Fare Context

The transfer extension follows recent fare increases. As of January 2026, adult single-use fares rose from $3.80 to $4.00, while monthly passes increased from $118 to $126. Those hikes were approved during December 2025 budget deliberations.

Council also allocated $6 million in ongoing operating funding to improve neighbourhood routes and boost service frequency, plus $9 million in one-time reserve funds for transit safety improvements.

What Happens Next

Administration will analyze the operational and financial impacts of the extended transfer window and report back within two months. The timeline suggests implementation could begin as early as late spring 2026, pending Council approval of the final report.

The move is part of broader Council efforts to recalibrate Calgary Transit's value proposition. In a separate February 2026 motion, Council unanimously approved a comprehensive review of the downtown free fare zone following TD Bank's decision to end its sponsorship in November 2025.