Accessibility
Our entire fleet is accessible for people with different levels of mobility. Our CTrains and buses are equipped with ramps that can be lowered to make it easier for customers with mobility issues to board.
Low floor buses serve all of our 155 routes and all of our 45 CTrain stations are equipped with elevators, ramps or are ground-level accessible. Accessible entrances and exits may vary from station to station, but they are all clearly marked.
Plan Ahead
Have your route planned and be familiar with landmarks along the way. Use our trip planner, or download the Transit app on your iPhone or Android device to plan your route and to stay up-to-date on construction closures.
At this time, not all bus stops are accessible. If you are not sure if your stop is accessible, please contact 403-262-1000 for more information.
Riding the bus
Mobility aids
All of our buses can accommodate for a mobility aid of the following dimensions:
• Length: 122 cm or 48 in
• Width: 76.2 cm or 30 in
These dimensions include all accessories such as footrests, baskets, and trays. Certain mobility aids, such as four wheel scooters, may not fit because of their wider turning radius. Please ensure you check the dimensions prior to boarding.
Using the ramp
If you need assistance boarding a bus, please ask the driver to lower the ramp if they have not already done so. Once the ramp is completely lowered, make your way up the ramp slowly. Some customers may need to move to one side of the ramp to make the turn at the farebox.
Boarding
When you’re at the farebox, show your pass or transfer, or place your ticket or cash in the farebox. You can also tell the driver which bus stop you’d like to get off at. This allows the driver to pick the best location to deploy the ramp when you depart.
Priority seating area
We have two designated spots at the front of our big buses, one on the left and one on the right side. For our shuttle buses, there is one area directly behind the driver’s seat. This designated area has priority seats that will pull up to allow more room, but may be used by other customers. In some cases you may have to ask them to move and lift the seats to make room for you.
If you are in a wheelchair or scooter, position yourself facing forward. If preferred, you can secure your device with the straps provided.
Exiting
When you are close to your destination, let the driver know by pushing the stop strip or button, or by pulling the stop string. If the stop you’re getting off of is not accessible, please let the driver know so that they can drop you off in a safe and accessible location.
Riding the CTrain
Please note, our CTrain fleet consists of different models. Some older models may have fewer accessibility features and are being phased out. If an older model doesn’t meet your needs, you have the option to wait for a newer model train.
At the platform
Being prepared begins on the platform. Listen for the automated stop announcements on the intercom, or look for the messages on the passenger information signs above the platform. These will let you know when a CTrain is arriving. Try to line yourself up to a door early and position yourself in an open area that gives you room to manoeuvre.
Boarding
Watch for the blue lights above the CTrain doors in the middle of each car. These accessible doors are equipped with a ramp to make boarding easier. Stay behind the yellow line until the CTrain has come to a complete stop, and push the blue accessible button to lower the ramp.
Priority seating area
Priority seats are located near both sides of the accessible doors. Some mobility aids may have a harder time entering and can’t turn easily, or sometimes at all, inside a CTrain car. If your mobility device has a large turn radius, you may have to prepare to reverse out the doors when you depart.
Position yourself near the doors and in a place where you can hold onto pole or handle. If you are in a wheelchair or scooter, we recommend that you position yourself so you are facing towards the middle of the train to reduce movement during the trip.
Exiting the CTrain
Listen for the automated stop announcements on the train, which will let you know the station you are arriving at. Different stations will have exits on either side of the train. Some CTrains will also have information panels that will indicate the station and which side you will need to exit from.
When you arrive at your destination, wait for the train to come to a complete stop and move towards your exit. Push the accessible ramp button and make your way off the train.
Travel training
Travel Training is a short-term, one-on-one program designed to help seniors and people with disabilities learn how to use Calgary Transit services safely and independently. Each customer will experience three to five one-on-one sessions that are based on their individual needs and abilities. Travel training gives you an improved understanding and confidence to take public transit to your destination. Want to book travel training or have questions? Contact us.