Calgary Transit is launching a new 500-series of express bus routes aimed at providing faster connections and better integration with the city’s transit network. The first route in the new series, Route 503 Symons Valley Express, began service Monday, connecting Sage Hill and surrounding communities with downtown through direct, limited-stop service. Calgary Transit is also renaming Route 300 Airport/City Centre as Route 500 Airport Express, creating the foundation for a new family of express routes that the city says will expand over time. Unlike traditional express routes that primarily operated during peak periods and in one direction, the new 500-series model provides two-way service throughout the day. “The new 500-series gives customers the fast, direct service they value while better connecting them to the rest of our transit network. It is a smarter, more flexible approach that helps us serve more people, more efficiently,” Calgary Transit director Sharon Fleming said in a statement. The new network is part of Calgary Transit’s RouteAhead 30-year strategic plan and follows changes identified through the North Central Transit Service Review. The city says the performance of Route 503 will help inform future 500-series express routes planned for other areas of Calgary as the city grows and travel patterns change.
