What to know
- RapidTO priority bus lanes were installed on Dufferin and Bathurst streets in the fall to improve transit flow ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- One month into the rollout, commuters report mixed experiences, with some bus riders noticing faster trips and improved reliability.
- Drivers and some riders say congestion and delays remain, particularly during rush hour and at busy intersections.
- Many commuters acknowledge the project is still in its early stages and expect adjustments as the trial continues.
It has been nearly two months since RapidTO bus lanes were installed along stretches of Dufferin and Bathurst streets, and locals are sharing mixed reactions.
The installation of the priority lanes began in the fall along Dufferin Street, between Bloor Street West and King Street West, and along Bathurst Street, between Bathurst Station and Lake Shore Boulevard West.
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The bus-only lanes come ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which both the City of Toronto and the TTC anticipate will significantly increase transit demand and make travel to and from games more efficient.
Now, as commuters enter their second month with the new lanes, Now Toronto visited Dufferin St. to speak with residents about how their daily commutes have changed.
Maihan K. says he doesn’t take the 29 Dufferin bus often, but has noticed a positive difference.
“I have noticed that it’s faster in a way compared to before… I’d say it’s helping out a little bit,” he said.
He added that his experience on the route, infamously known by some residents as the ‘Sufferin’ Dufferin,’ was far worse before the lanes were installed.
“It was terrible. It was horrendous. I think that’s why I haven’t been on it in a little bit,” he said.
Jahnell J. also doesn’t take the bus frequently, but says she’s noticed some improvement, though not without drawbacks.
“I guess it’s a little faster, but the bus still gets clogged anyway, so I don’t know how much it’s helping,” she said.
She added that the time of day continues to have a major impact on commute times.
“It’s really fast during the day, but from 5 to 8 you can be waiting like 30 minutes for a bus,” she said.
Jess S., who both drives and takes transit, says her opinion depends on which mode of transportation she’s using.
“If I’m taking the bus, love it. Fast. Thank you. As a driver, I hate it,” she said. “During rush hour, if you’re not turning left at Dundas and you’re stuck on Dundas, it takes so long to get through that red light.”
She believes the lanes would be easier for drivers if the city implemented advanced left-turn signals.
“You would have such an easier time. It just takes way too long to turn,” she said.
Emma T., who also drives and commutes by transit, shared similar sentiments but emphasized the necessity of the project on Dufferin.
“I know every time I’ve taken [the Dufferin bus], it’s been laughable, I can walk quicker than I can transit,” she said. “It’s a trial project. There are going to be hiccups in the first couple of months.”
