By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter

As college and university students prepare to return home for the summer — and as rising gas prices push more lone drivers and migrant farm workers toward public transit — residents in Tilbury and nearby rural communities are renewing calls for intercity bus companies to add a stop along the Windsor‑to‑Toronto corridor.

Passengers travelling between Windsor and Toronto must currently board buses in either Windsor or Chatham, leaving Tilbury residents with limited and often costly options. Many say they are forced to rely on expensive VIA Rail trips or unpredictable rideshare apps, which can be especially challenging for newcomers, international students and seasonal agricultural workers with tight budgets.

For Amina Rahman, a university student returning to Comber after exams, the lack of a Tilbury stop adds unnecessary stress.

“Every time I come home, I have to arrange extra rides from Windsor or Chatham,” Rahman said. “It’s expensive, and it’s hard for students who don’t have a car. A Tilbury stop would make travel so much easier for us.”

Migrant farm workers — many of whom travel regularly for appointments, errands or to send money home — say the absence of a local stop forces them to spend more than they can afford.

Carlos Mendoza, who works seasonally in the greenhouse sector, said rising gas prices have made carpooling or driving long distances unrealistic.

“Most of us can’t afford to drive to Windsor or Chatham just to catch a bus,” Mendoza said. “A stop in Tilbury would help workers like me save money and travel safely.”

For Amina Okoye, who frequently travels to Toronto to visit family, the issue is about fairness and accessibility.

“Tilbury is right on the 401. It makes no sense that buses pass us every day but don’t stop,” Okoye said. “Seniors, newcomers, students — a lot of people here depend on affordable travel.”

Residents argue that Tilbury’s location along Highway 401 makes it an ideal stop for major carriers such as Megabus or FlixBus. Advocates say a designated pickup point could serve not only Tilbury but also nearby communities such as Comber, Wheatley, Stoney Point and rural Lakeshore, reducing reliance on costly alternatives.

Two proposed locations: Tilbury Onroute and the Comber truck stop

Community members say there are two practical, infrastructure‑ready locations that would serve multiple rural communities:

Tilbury Onroute — directly off Highway 401, with safe parking, restrooms and food services.

The Comber truck stop at the 401 ramp — a central, high‑traffic location that would serve Stoney Point, Leamington, Comber, Tilbury and Wheatley without requiring major upgrades.

Advocates say both sites offer visibility, safety and easy access for buses and passengers, making them strong candidates for intercity carriers looking to expand rural service.

VIA Rail service is available only from Chatham or Windsor, but tickets can be expensive and schedules limited. Rideshare apps are often used to bridge the gap, but costs can quickly add up, especially for migrant workers and students who travel frequently.

Local leaders and community groups say they plan to raise the issue with transportation providers in the coming weeks. Supporters hope that adding a Tilbury‑area stop will improve regional connectivity, reduce financial strain and ensure rural residents — including newcomers and migrant farm workers — are not left behind as public transit demand grows.