Toronto city council approved a TTC request for additional funding to help the TTC combat a recent increase in violence.
“We saw a rise late last year in violence against our employees and customers and it warrants this increased response,” TTC CEO Rick Leary told councillors at a March 30 council meeting.
Leary said this additional funding was required for improvement of de-escalation training for their front line workers, enhanced cleaning in key stations, more community safety ambassadors, and security guards.
The additional funding of 15 million dollars would come from a reserve fund set up to stabilize TTC operating expenses over time.
Leary blamed issues like drug addiction, crime, and homelessness for contributing to increased violence on the TTC.
“To address these issues, we need a co-ordinated solution. The root causes of these incidents are complex and comprehensive,” Leary said.
The TTC CEOaded the transit agency has taken a more compassionate approach toward homeless individuals that utilize the TTC as a substitute shelter.
TTC is collaborating with the City of Toronto and has partnerships with Toronto’s Streets to Homes and LOFT Community Services.
“When we talk about the program it’s reaching out to police and the city to come and help and suggest budget options,” Leary added.
Deputy Police Chief Lauren Pogue also addressed council, describing how police temporarily increased their presence on the TTC earlier this year by deploying officers on an overtime basis.
“We’re in strategic discussions with stakeholders as ongoing work with TTC continues and how we address long-term safety. We’re all at the table at a regular basis,” Pogue said.
Councillor Michael Colle questioned whether Toronto Police Services could effectively address the city’s current rise in violence on their own.
“Can Toronto Police Services deal with this tragic explosion of violence on the TTC or the city by themselves?” Colle asked.
These concerns come after the March 25 stabbing at the Keele Subway Station that left a 16-year-old boy deceased.
Leary said TTC will go “above and beyond” to ensure the safety of its riders.