In a groundbreaking move, Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced plans for the TTC to implement a fare capping system starting in September next year. Under this new system, riders will enjoy unlimited free rides once they exceed 47 fares in a month.
Chow explained that the process will be seamless for commuters – simply tap your phone, Presto card, or credit card as usual. After reaching 47 taps in a month, all subsequent rides will be free without any additional steps required.
Currently, a TTC monthly pass for adults costs $156, with a single fare priced at $3.30 – $3.35, making it a cost-neutral scenario for frequent riders. However, Chow aims to reduce the threshold to 40 rides per month by 2027.
This change is beneficial for those who occasionally purchase a monthly pass but end up not utilizing it fully. By eliminating the risk of overpaying for underused passes, riders have the flexibility to pay for what they use without being tied to a pass they might not fully utilize.
The concept of fare capping is not new, as it is already successfully implemented in transit systems in Hamilton, York Region, and Ottawa. TTC Chair Jamal Myers highlighted another advantage of fare capping, noting that it would discourage fare evasion by encouraging all riders to tap in to reach the 47-ride cap each month.
Following the announcement, transit advocacy group TTCriders expressed support for the fare capping initiative, emphasizing its positive impact on affordability and ridership. They plan to advocate for its inclusion in the 2026 City of Toronto Budget to ensure its implementation.
Chow assured that the shift to free rides after 47 trips per month would be financially feasible for the city, costing an estimated $3.5 million annually. While there may be initial revenue losses, the long-term projections show a significant increase in ridership, potentially generating nearly 17 million more rides per year if the threshold is lowered to 40 rides.