The TTC board will consider capping how many times a rider can use their pass per week at its next board meeting on Feb. 10.
The issue is outlined in its five-year fare policy, which endorses the fare capping policy. It can be implemented as soon as May if approved.
The fare capping policy is being discussed as a way to make riding the TTC system more affordable for customers and remove the cost of their monthly passes, currently $156 a month, at the beginning of every month.
It would also allow riders not to have to opt in or out of the monthly pass based on ever-changing travel habits because of the pandemic.
The report states there will be no immediate financial impact on TTC riders if the board chooses to enact the proposed policies included in the five-year plan. However, the proposed changes are a guide the TTC’s approach in implementing new fare policies.
The report also cited accessibility. Through its participation in the city’s Fare Equity Steering Committee, the TTC heard transit affordability is a concern for many city residents. To ensure an equity lens remains a key component of the final Five-Year Fare Policy, the TTC will continue to work with these committees to conduct a final round of public feedback.
TTC staff are also asking the board approve increasing discounts for youth and seniors to match the city’s Fair Pass program, which reduces TTC fares for low-income residents.
Ridership was only about 51 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.
More to come.