Comment on Eglinton Crosstown PPP Story

TTCriders is concerned with the news reported in the Toronto Star that Metrolinx is considering a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) for the designing, construction and operation of the proposed Eglinton-Scarborough Crosstown LRT line. We are concerned about how this decision could impact transit users in Toronto. For example,

Will riders have to pay more to use this line? Would the Crosstown have a different fare structure?
Will Torontonians have the same level of input on this project if it is privately controlled?
Who will operate the system if its not run by the TTC?
What would happen if there was a disruption on the Crosstown? Would TTC buses be available to shuttle riders to their destinations?

TTCriders eagerly anticipate more details on this developing story and hope that all public transit in Toronto will remain publicly accountable and publicly controlled.

There are several examples of failed public transit PPPs around the globe. Last year, the Public Transit Coalition released a video about the dangers of Public Transit PPPs. The video cites examples of failed PPPs from London, Auckland, Melbourne and explores the problems Vancouver had with its private Canada Line.

TTCriders believes the best idea for the Crosstown is to stick with the original, less expensive LRT project that was in Metrolinx and TTC's original plan. The original version of the Crosstown required less of the funds available from the Province and allowed for construction of 3 other major transit projects for Torontonians.

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Transit Riders Celebrate Progress on Bathurst and Dufferin Dedicated Transit Lanes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 16, 2025

Toronto, ON — TTCriders, a membership-based transit advocacy organization, is celebrating a victory today as, after hearing a marathon six hours of speakers, with most voicing support on the issue, the Executive Committee approved RapidTO dedicated transit lanes on Bathurst and Dufferin Streets. This would not have been possible without transit riders standing up and speaking in favour of this common-sense solution.

TTCriders letter to Executive Committee in support of RapidTO dedicated transit lanes

RE: EX25.4 - RapidTO: Transit Priority on Dufferin Street and Bathurst Street

Riders Call for Dedicated Transit Priority Lanes on Dufferin and Bathurst

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Toronto — Transit riders gathered this morning at Dufferin Subway Station alongside TTCriders, the Toronto Environmental Alliance (TEA), and Environmental Defence Canada (EDC) to call on Toronto City Council to implement long-promised dedicated transit lanes on Dufferin and Bathurst streets.