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The cell and 9-1-1 network needs to expand beyond downtown and the northwest
Anyone can call 9-1-1 in the TTC where wireless coverage is available. But a wireless network has only been installed in subway tunnels in the "downtown U" on Line 1, and between Downsview and Vaughan Metropolitan Centre stations on Line 1. The wireless network is installed in all subway stations.
It's bigger than the "Big 3": Is it time for TTC to break its contract with BAI and build out a public network?
The TTC has a role to play in expanding cell coverage for everyone. The TTC decided to give BAI Communications the contract to install a wireless network in 2012 with exclusive rights for 20 years, in exchange for $25 million. Only Freedom Mobile has signed on to give its customers access to BAI's wireless network in the downtown "U" and the subway tunnel north of Downsview.
But the original RFP called for 60% of cell phone users in Toronto to have access to the network. That requirement has not been met. The contract signed between TTC and BAI is not public. But if the 60% coverage requirement is in the contract, the TTC might have grounds to break the contract and expand the network to all subway tunnels.
This could have been avoided if the wireless network was public from the beginning.
Who are you going to call?
Having a cell and 9-1-1 network throughout the TTC is just one part of the safety equation. There is also a need for services who can be called on to provide support, such as mental health crisis support. The $500,000 expansion of the M-DOT (Multi-Disciplinary Outreach Team) program funded in the 2023 City Budget is a good first step, but these staff are not available 24/7.
Existing safety communications to know about
- You can text 647-496-1940 to report immediate safety concerns to TTC Transit Control (this requires cell service).
- You can also use the "SafeTTC" app (this requires wifi access).
- All subway stations have free wifi access.
- There are public telephones on all subway platforms.
- If there is an emergency on a subway train, you can push the yellow strip.
- There are intercoms located in "Designated Waiting Areas" on subway platforms.