Toronto's Bus Rapid Transit Success Story

Viva, the suburban express-bus network that debuted last September in the York region of Toronto, recently grabbed the attention of 200 transit experts attending the American Public Transit Association's conference in the city.

"Viva's high-end buses feature comfortable high-backed seating, a table in the back and electronic signs telling passengers how far they are from the next stop. The buses, controlled by a global positioning system, have the ability to turn red lights green if they are behind schedule, and the stops tell riders how long they have to wait for the next bus. The rides are prepaid, meaning bus drivers don't have to worry about collecting fares or handing out transfers."