TTC ramping up service ahead of back-to-school

Thestar.com
Aug. 31, 2022

The TTC is increasing service in preparation for a ridership increase this fall.

In a press release Tuesday afternoon, the TTC outlined plans to ramp up service ahead of the expected jump in customers in September, as the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions signals a return of in-person work and students head back to school following Labour Day, according to TTC CEO Rick Leary.

The TTC says it’s taking steps to improve security and cleanliness ahead of welcoming back more customers next week.

More than a year into the pandemic, TTC’s ridership took a hit reaching 26 per cent of normal levels.

With TTC ridership hovering between 55 and 60 per cent now, models predict a 10 to 15 per cent jump in the coming weeks.

To prepare for the influx of customers this fall, TTC says effective Sept. 4 there will be three-minute train service on Lines 1 and 2 and an increase with service on 29 bus routes and two streetcar routes.

Earlier this year, the TTC increased service on 17 routes in an attempt to get service back to pre-pandemic levels.

Other changes include restoring seasonal post-secondary services. “Staff worked with school boards to ensure TTC trips match planned student start and dismissal times,” says the statement.

TTC says extra, unscheduled vehicles will also be available to help fill gaps where unplanned delays or disruptions occur.

According to the TTC, their focus on safety includes “increasing the number of Special Constables and working with the city’s Streets to Home program to put resources where they are needed.”

“The TTC also reminds customers that compared to driving, the TTC is a far more affordable way to get around Toronto, particularly given current gas prices and parking rates,” says the transit agency.

Later in the fall, TTC says more changes are expected, including a roll out of the Automated Train Control signalling system on Line 1, expansion of the Wi-Fi on buses pilot program and the introduction of a modernized fare inspection.