Calgary Transit launches 500-series express routes with Route 503

Calgary Transit launched its new 500-series express routes on Aug. 31, 2026, with the first route beginning service that day, according to the City of Calgary.

Route 503 Symons Valley Express connects Sage Hill and surrounding communities with downtown through direct, limited-stop service, the city says.

Calgary Transit also renamed Route 300 Airport/City Centre to Route 500 Airport Express, creating what it calls the foundation for a new family of express routes that will expand over time.

The 500-series model differs from traditional express routes, which primarily operated during peak periods and in one direction, according to the city. The new model provides two-way service throughout the day.

The city says the network is designed to provide fast, direct travel with limited stops, offer more consistent service throughout the day and better connect customers to transit hubs and local routes.

Calgary is growing, and the way people travel is changing. 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.Sharon Fleming, Director of Calgary Transit

The launch of Route 503 supports broader improvements made through Calgary Transit's North Central Transit Service Review, the city says. The route complements existing services such as MAX Green and local community routes.

The city says the 500-series is part of Calgary Transit's ongoing work to build a more connected, reliable network in line with RouteAhead, its 30-year strategic plan.

The performance of Route 503 will help inform future 500-series routes planned for other areas of Calgary, according to the city.

Route information, schedules and trip planning tools are available at calgarytransit.com, the city says.