Toronto Mayor John Tory officially announced the implementation of the “hop-on-hop-off” transfer as part of the 2018 budget.
This transfer is essentially a time-based fare, which would allow PRESTO users to get back on the bus or subway after getting off, as long as their trip is under two hours. This kind of fare is ideal for those making short trips to the grocery store or to pick up their kids. The Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) will be investing $11 million into these transfers, and hopes to roll them out across the entire system by August.
“Over the last three years, people across the city have repeatedly made it clear to me that making it easier to get around the city is one of the most important issues they expect me to tackle as mayor of Toronto,” said Tory in a statement. “It is why year over year we make unprecedented investments in the TTC to improve service for millions of daily riders.”
“The hop on-hop off transfer allows people on transit the flexibility to run errands or make stops along their way to work, school, or home.” said TTC Commissioner Mary Fragedakis. “This would continue the modernization of our services, and further demonstrate the TTC’s ongoing commitment to improving the customer experience.”
The TTC will also receive $31 million more in the 2018 budget to help with its expansion. This will cover initiatives such as a fare freeze, new elevators at stations for accessibility, and a “Fair Fare Pass”.