Transit agencies across Ontario have been cutting service and laying off workers because they have lost up to 100 percent of their fare revenue since March. Ontario’s largest transit agency, the TTC, is projecting a $700-million budget shortfall by the end of 2020.
The federal government has announced it will chip in up to $1.8 billion for public transit, but will only match dollar-for-dollar what provinces put in.
This means Ontario could receive between $600 and $900 million federal dollars, with the TTC receiving between $300 and $450 million.
While the federal money is a step in the right direction, if the TTC is to avoid drastic layoffs, fare hikes and service cuts the province must step in and match the federal governemnt's commitment.
We cannot afford to leave any money on the table.
Fill out the form below to demand the Ford government fully match the federal government’s commitment to fund transit operations. This funding is the only way to ensure transit systems can recover from the pandemic without mass layoffs and painful service cuts.
The provincial government used to fund 50 per cent of the operating costs of transit. If this government is truly committed to helping Ontario recover and helping commuters, it needs to take this opportunity to step-up and permanently fund transit operating costs. People who count on transit in Ontario deserve accessible, fast, and reliable service at an affordable price.
ACT NOW:
Please fill out the form below to send a message to the Minister of Transportation, Premier Doug Ford, and your local MPP to demand the government fund transit in Ontario.