No TTC fare increase in 2021, Tory says

2020 is coming to an end and it’s been a tough year for all of us here in Toronto. Not only with two major lockdowns, but the city also saw the retirement of the police chief and protests for racial equality. Joining us now for a year-end interview is Mayor John Tory.

By news staff

TTC riders are getting a bit of good news heading into the new year.

During his year end interview with Breakfast Television on Thursday, Mayor John Tory announced that there won’t be a fare increase in 2021.

“This is a reflection of the hard work TTC staff have done to maintain services, but to do so without a fare increase. I’ve got to tell you, in a year like this that’s very hard to do,” he explained.

During the pandemic, the TTC has struggled with reduced ridership numbers as more people moved from commuting to working from home. It quickly added up to a $1.5-billion shortfall for the transit agency.

TTC Chair Jaye Robinson said they will get help from the other two levels of government with this year’s budget shortfalls.

“With the global pandemic having significantly reduced our revenues, this is without a doubt the most challenging budget in the TTC’s 99-year history,” Robinson said in a release.

“We know that provincial and federal supports will help offset this year’s shortfall, but it’s essential we plan for 2021 in a way that allows us to continue to provide demand-responsive service to those relying on us now more than ever.”


RELATED: Toronto to receive $1.2B in provincial funding


Tory said the TTC will also have to deal with “raises that kick in through collective agreement contracts” and the rising cost of fuel, but the hard work of TTC staff have made it possible to freeze fares.

“We’ve been working very hard, including finding $500 million so far in savings and efficiencies in the city government, and I will be working tirelessly to get that budget finalized with our hardworking city staff and we will present it in January,” Tory said.

Tory said he hopes riders will return to transit next year.

“I think (this) is good news for people who use the TTC and we hope they come back to the TTC because (it) is also safe.”

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