Toronto Transit Faces Delays as On-Time Performance Drops

Toronto’s public transit system is grappling with significant delays, with buses and streetcars running late nearly 40 percent of the time in September 2023. A report released by the Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) on October 3 indicated that streetcars met their schedules only 61 percent of the time, a 3 percent decline from the same month last year.

The TTC defines an on-time departure as occurring at or within five minutes after the scheduled time. The agency aims for a target of 90 percent on-time performance across all transit services. In September, bus services also fell short of expectations, achieving an on-time rate of 74 percent, compared to 82 percent during the same period in 2022. In contrast, the subway system met its performance target with a commendable 91 percent on-time rate.

Contributing to these delays, the report highlighted a decrease in operational reliability and average speed for buses and streetcars. The challenges arose from worsening traffic congestion, along with financial difficulties stemming from reduced ridership. The TTC reported 41 million revenue rides between August 24 and September 27, which is 5.1 percent below the budgeted expectations. Year-to-date passenger revenue also fell short by 3.8 percent, resulting in a financial shortfall of approximately $30.1 million.

The decline in ridership has been attributed to various factors, including a decrease in international postsecondary students, poor weather conditions, and a weaker-than-expected economic climate. In the report, TTC CEO Mandeep Lali noted, “We are responding with a ridership growth strategy that will outline clear priorities and recommendations to support recovery and growth.” He emphasized the need for the TTC to deliver reliable, accessible, and efficient service, acknowledging that the organization has not yet achieved its targets but is taking steps to improve.

Customer satisfaction with the TTC has also declined, dropping to 68 percent in September, significantly below the agency’s target of 84 percent. This figure represents a decrease from pre-pandemic satisfaction levels, which stood at 83 percent. The TTC believes that increased demand, as more individuals return to in-person work, coupled with enhanced fare compliance strategies, may help alleviate some of the challenges it currently faces.

As the TTC navigates these issues, officials are closely monitoring ridership trends this fall, particularly as more people resume in-office work. The organization is committed to implementing measures that will improve service reliability and customer satisfaction while addressing the ongoing financial challenges posed by reduced ridership.