Josh in the News

Press conference: January 27th, 9:30am
Location: 2nd Floor A Street Reception, New City Hall, Toronto, Ontario
 
Today, Commissioner Josh Matlow and Chair Jamaal Myers announced a motion to address critical service delays and transit issues on the TTC. The motion, which will be tabled at the TTC Board Meeting today, seeks to tackle the root causes of service disruptions and improve communication with riders, all while enhancing transit reliability across Toronto.

The motion will be presented alongside transit advocacy group TTCRiders, highlighting the voices and experiences of transit riders who have been most impacted by the delays.

Torontonians are deeply frustrated with repeated delays that disrupt their ability to get to work, school, or appointments on time. This motion is a response to the growing need for decisive action to regain public trust in the transit system.

The motion directs TTC staff to:
  • Investigate the root causes of recent delays, including an ATC signaling issue in December 2024 and a rail structure failure in January 2025.
  • Conduct an external review of the Automated Train Control (ATC) system to ensure long-term reliability.
  • Improve communication during service interruptions by providing timely, clear, and accessible updates, and conduct an audit of sound systems on trains and in stations.
  • Explore ways to make shuttle bus services more efficient through the use of priority surface transit routes during disruptions.
  • Invest in preventative measures, such as curtailing unauthorized access to track-level, to avoid further service interruptions.
“We’ve heard loud and clear from riders that reliability is the number one priority,” said Chair Jamaal Myers. “This motion is about addressing the systemic challenges that have plagued our transit system and ensuring the TTC can deliver the dependable service our city deserves.”

“The delays on Toronto’s subways impact our ability to get to work or school on time. And they happen far too frequently. My motion with Councillor Myers makes this a priority- by focusing on prevention, communication & providing options so residents can rely on the TTC to get to where they need to be” said Councillor Matlow.

"Subway shutdowns are extremely disruptive and stressful. I was one hour late to a final exam for a university course because of a subway shutdown last year," said TTCriders volunteer Nicholas Christou. "Taking action to improve the shuttle bus experience and communications during service interruptions is urgently needed."  

This motion is part of broader efforts within the TTC 2025 Operating and Capital Budgets, which prioritize investments in infrastructure and service improvements. It reflects a commitment to restoring reliability and rebuilding trust in Toronto’s transit system, ensuring the TTC remains the backbone of the city’s transportation network.
 
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Media Contacts:
 
Micheal Mason
Chief of Staff to Councillor Myers
[email protected]
647-409-6201
 
Sebastien Gibson
Senior Policy, Planning and Communications Advisor to Councillor Josh Matlow
[email protected]
437 318 4021 

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