Toronto's Economic & Community Development Committee is meeting this morning. Item #2 on the agenda is the future of the Fair Pass #TTC discount program. You can watch the meeting here:
.@BenSpurr reported that the City quietly paused new applications to the Fair Pass program in March. But some current Fair Pass users, including @Sarah_Colero and @arc23, reported that they weren't able to renew. thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…
The City plans to bring Fair Pass back next month. @arc23 told the Star: "I was given the run-around when trying to renew my Fair Pass discount this summer. It’s good that the program is being reinstated, but people have already fallen through the cracks."
thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…
thestar.com/news/gta/2020/…
The re-start is good news, but the new application process creates barriers. Read our letter explaining why the City should keep mailing out free Presto cards, support people to apply, and more ⬇️
https://twitter.com/ttcriders/status/1326623259459252225
Most importantly, people who receive OW and ODSP need free #TTC and the Fair Pass discount must be fully funded for all low-income Torontonians. A free TTC card mailed to people receiving social assistance would solve most barriers.
Ejay Tupe, a Board member of the Ralph Thornton Community Centre, is addressing the Committee now. Says that the Fair Pass gives people access and dignity. "Please give my friends the assurance and dignity to pay their own fare.... We need to maintain our best ideas."
Next speaker is Tina Shapiro, who works at @SisteringTO and with the Fair Fare Coalition. Tina urges the committee to fully fund the Fair Pass in 2021, as promised, and speaks about some of the barriers to applying for and using the pass on PRESTO cards.
Next is Shelagh Pizey-Allen, who tells committee that barriers noted in 2019 Phase 1 Evaluation Report have not been heeded. Fair Pass still too expensive for people who receive social assistance. People need option of in-person supports and free PRESTO cards mailed out.
Robert Williams now speaking to the Committee about the many Canadian cities (Hamilton, Mississauga, Brampton, Calgary) that have lower fares than Toronto. This is important to him because he works with a foodbank in Scarborough. Expanding program would only cost $20 million/yr.
Councillor @MichaelFordTO asks staff about possible stigma of using the Fair Pass card. All concession cards make the same sound and light.
But unlike students, seniors, Fair Pass users don't have ID. There is still fear of being approached by fare inspectors and challenged.
But unlike students, seniors, Fair Pass users don't have ID. There is still fear of being approached by fare inspectors and challenged.
Councillor @shelleycarroll asks: Why is this program so complicated, hard to make changes?
Staff and Councillor noting that #TTC has to ask Metrolinx to make many changes (different sound / light). The TTC to hold public consultations in 2021 for its 5-Year Fare Policy Review.
Staff and Councillor noting that #TTC has to ask Metrolinx to make many changes (different sound / light). The TTC to hold public consultations in 2021 for its 5-Year Fare Policy Review.
Councillor @cynthiaToronto asking about other cities' discounts. Staff says that their goal was to offer a better program than other cities....
But most cities offer a 50% discount. Toronto's monthly low income pass ($123.25) is more expensive than most regular Canadian passes.
But most cities offer a 50% discount. Toronto's monthly low income pass ($123.25) is more expensive than most regular Canadian passes.
The Fair Pass will re-start in December! That means people receiving OW, ODSP, and Child Care Fee Subsidies will be able to apply. But the discount is still *DELAYED* for all low-income Torontonians. Get involved to fight for lower fares now: act.ttcriders.ca/volunteer #TTC
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