Toronto Transit Faces Major Delays as Performance Declines

Toronto’s public transit system encountered significant delays last month, with buses and streetcars running late nearly 40 per cent of the time. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) released a report on September performance, revealing that streetcars adhered to their schedules only 61 per cent of the time, a decline of three per cent compared to the same period last year.

The TTC defines on-time performance as vehicles departing at the scheduled time or within five minutes thereafter. The agency aims for a target of 90 per cent on-time service. However, the latest report indicated that bus performance was similarly disappointing, with only 74 per cent of buses arriving on time in September, down from 82 per cent during the same month in 2022. In contrast, the subway system managed to meet expectations, achieving a 91 per cent on-time performance rate.

Factors Contributing to Decline

According to TTC CEO Mandeep Lali, the decline in reliability for buses and streetcars has been attributed to worsening traffic congestion and operational slowdowns. September also saw a shortfall in ridership, which fell below budget expectations. The TTC recorded 41 million revenue rides between August 24 and September 27, representing a decrease of 5.1 per cent from the projected figures. Year-to-date passenger revenue is 3.8 per cent below budget, resulting in a financial deficit of $30.1 million.

Several factors have contributed to this decline in ridership, including fewer international postsecondary students, adverse weather conditions, and a softer-than-expected economic environment. In the report, Lali emphasized the need for a strategic approach to boost ridership, stating, “We are responding with a ridership growth strategy that will outline clear priorities and recommendations to support recovery and growth.”

Customer Satisfaction Takes a Hit

The report also indicated a drop in customer satisfaction, which fell to 68 per cent in September, significantly below the agency’s target of 84 per cent and down from pre-pandemic levels of 83 per cent. Lali acknowledged the challenges faced by the TTC, asserting, “The TTC must deliver reliable, accessible, and efficient service. We are not where we need to be, but we are taking decisive steps to get there.”

To address these issues, the TTC is closely monitoring ridership trends, particularly as more individuals return to in-person work. The agency is also implementing strategies to enhance fare compliance, which may contribute to improved financial stability in the future.

As the TTC navigates these obstacles, the emphasis remains on restoring public confidence in the transit system and ensuring that service quality meets the needs of Toronto’s commuters.