Viva (bus Rapid Transit) - Overview

Overview

Viva is the first phase of York Region's rapid transit plan to reduce traffic congestion. The next phase is called VivaNext.

The service uses high-end Belgian-built Van Hool and Canadian-built NovaBus buses referred to as "rapid transit vehicles" (RTVs). To maximize speed, buses make use of existing or specially lengthened right-turn lanes bypass lineups at intersections, as well as bus-only lanes and roads to avoid traffic altogether. When behind schedule, they are given priority at traffic signals.

Viva operates 18 hours a day, 7 days a week, from 5:30 a.m. to midnight on weekdays, 6:30 a.m. to midnight on Saturdays and 8:00 a.m. to midnight on Sundays. During peak hours (6:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.), buses arrive every three to ten minutes depending on the route. Outside of peak hours, buses arrive less than 15 minutes apart.

Stops along the routes are referred to as "vivastations", and incorporate a ticket vending machine, a ticket validator, and a Presto card reader (fares are on a proof-of-payment basis to speed up boarding times). A real-time display that notifies passengers when the next vehicle is expected to depart. Viva stations are typically blue, except where they are part of a theme. Viva stations located in the historic districts of Thornhill, Richmond Hill, and Aurora have a unique bronze design referred to as "vivavintage". Viva stations on York University's campus are red to comply with the university's signage policy. Where space is limited, stops are served by miniature "vivamicro" stations.

Viva routes connect to Toronto Transit Commission's Yonge, Spadina, and Sheppard subway lines, GO Transit trains and buses, and to a number of Toronto bus routes. Viva is integrated with YRT's existing bus network, and passengers pay one fare to use both Viva and the regular bus system. Fares are valid for unlimited use for two hours from the time of purchase. To speed up boarding times, Viva uses the "Proof of Payment" system. Rather than have drivers sell fares, passengers obtain tickets at vending machines and Viva officials occasionally check to ensure all passengers have paid their fare.