Huntsville approves transit expansion and rural partnership plan

An additional $351,000 will hit the tax levy in 2027's budget to fund the expansion

Huntsville Council approved a transit expansion and optimization plan during the May 25th, 2026, council meeting.

The approved plan directs staff to move ahead with the Huntsville Transit Expansion and Optimization Plan in three phases beginning July 1, 2026, as outlined in the staff report.

According to the resolution, staff had previously been directed to examine the existing transit system for potential options to optimize and expand services.

The plan also aligns with efforts by the District of Muskoka to identify municipal partners for broader transit initiatives.

Council approved an increase in 2026 transit funding, with a net cost of $148,500 to be funded through the Town's Working Funds Reserve. Beginning in 2027, the full amount would be funded through the municipal levy.

The resolution also includes approval of municipal funding for the Town's share of two new buses. Funding will include $85,000 from the Transit Reserve and $52,145 from the Town Capital Reserve.

Looking ahead, Council approved including an estimated additional $351,000 in the 2027 Mayor's Budget to support expanded transit services.

The plan also includes a partnership component with the District aimed at improving transit access beyond Huntsville's urban core. Council approved partnering with the District on expansion into rural areas through Muskoka's Demand Response Transit system, pending funding and future Council approval.

Demand Response Transit typically provides flexible transportation service that can respond to rider requests rather than following fixed routes and schedules, often serving areas where conventional transit may be less practical.

The three-phase expansion and optimization plan is intended to build on Huntsville's existing transit system while exploring new service opportunities and improving regional transportation connections.

Further details about service expansion, rural routes and implementation timelines are expected to return to Council as the project moves forward and funding approvals are finalized.