Umo Launches for Transit Windsor Riders

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens was joined by Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) for Windsor-Tecumseh Andrew Dowie, and representatives from City Council, City administration, and Transit Windsor to officially launch the new Umo fare management system, which is now available to Transit Windsor riders as of Monday, October 5, 2026. The system offers more convenient and flexible options to pay fares, manage transit accounts, and access transit information.

Through the free Umo Mobility app, riders can purchase digital passes, add funds, check balances, review trip history, plan trips and access real-time transit information directly from their smartphone. For riders who prefer not to use a mobile device, fares  can be purchased with a reloadable Umo card, and cash fare continues to be accepted.

The Umo implementation is a key deliverable of Transit Windsor's More Than Transit Master Plan and supports the organization's commitment to improving customer experience and modernizing public transit services. The federal government contributed over $3.2 million and the provincial government invested over $2.7 million through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) to support overall transit improvements in Windsor, which included funding towards the UMO Fare Payment System. This $3.53 million project represents a significant investment in public transit technology and infrastructure that will enhance service delivery for riders today while supporting future system improvements.

Transit Windsor continues to support riders through the transition with online resources, customer service support, and in-person assistance. Users of existing smart cards who choose not to use the mobile app can exchange their current smart card for a new Umo card free of charge at the Windsor International Transit Terminal (WITT).

Riders are reminded to use up any remaining value on current smart cards by December 31, 2026, as any unused balance remaining after that date cannot be transferred to an Umo card or app account.

Quick Facts

• Umo became available to all Transit Windsor riders on October 5, 2026.
• Riders can pay fares using the free Umo Mobility app, a reloadable Umo card, or exact cash fare.
• The Umo Mobility app allows riders to purchase passes, add funds, view balances, review trip history, plan trips, and access real-time transit information.
• Users of existing Transit Windsor smart cards can exchange their current card for a Umo card free of charge at WITT, located at 300 Chatham Street West, Windsor, Ontario – Open 7 days a week from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• New Umo cards are available for a one-time fee of $6. Replacement cards cost $10.
• Payment validation is instant, with visual and audio confirmation when a fare is accepted.
• The project included upgrades to onboard communications technology to support future transit improvements.
• A second phase of the project is planned for 2027-2028 and will include replacement of fareboxes across the Transit Windsor fleet.
• This project was funded through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP), with a total project budget of $3.53 million.

For more information, visit CityW.ca/Umo or contact 311.

Quotes:

“This is an exciting step in modernizing the Windsor Transit system and creating more accessible and reliable public transit. The Umo fare system will provide riders with more convenient options to pay and access transit information while traveling to work, school and other daily essentials. As Windsor continues to grow, we will continue to support the proper infrastructure needed to create an efficient and reliable public transit system for residents.” – The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure

“Investing in modern transportation infrastructure is about creating jobs, strengthening our communities and building the foundation for long-term economic growth. Transit Windsor’s new Umo fare system will make taking transit easier and more convenient for riders, while supporting a more modern and connected transportation network.” – Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation

“The launch of the Umo fare management system is making transit more convenient and accessible for Windsor riders by providing flexible payment options and real-time transit information. Our government is proud to support this investment, which is helping modernize transit services and improve the customer experience for Windsor residents.” – Andrew Dowie, Member of Provincial Parliament for Windsor-Tecumseh

“Today marks yet another major milestone representing the latest of Council’s significant investments in Windsor’s public transit system, services, and infrastructure. On the heels of recently opening the new East End and West End transit terminals, along with breaking ground on the Transit Centre Garage Expansion Project, today’s launch of the new Umo fare management system is the latest example of Council’s firm commitment to public transit as a core municipal service. Through those recent project announcements alone, we’re investing nearly $54 million to better connect residents to neighbourhoods, districts, jobs, education, healthcare, events, and the essential services that help everyone participate fully in the life of our city. That’s why our 2026 City budget allocated $5.5 million to support capital investments in public transit, improving infrastructure, adding new routes, enhancing services, updating technology, and so much more for our transit system. This incremental, data-driven work is guided by strategic planning, responsible investments, and a commitment to protecting affordability for Windsorites. We extend our thanks once again to our federal and provincial government partners for continuing to invest in our community and in the services that matter most to residents.”  – Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens

“Umo is a significant step forward in delivering on the vision outlined in our More Than Transit Master Plan. This investment not only improves customer experience today but also provides the technology foundation needed to support future enhancements and continued growth of our transit system. Umo gives riders more ways to pay, manage their accounts, and access transit information, all while maintaining options for customers who prefer not to use a mobile device. We're proud to bring these improvements to the people who rely on Transit Windsor every day.” – James Chacko, Executive Director, Transit Windsor