Statement on the new uniform: “More consultation before any final decision”

To all customer-facing staff:

You may have read or heard about, proposals for the new TTC uniform and you may have also seen images of what this uniform is supposed to look like.

Let me set the record straight so that you know the facts rather than the speculation.

As you know, we want to issue a new uniform starting in 2014 to progressively replace the rather dated maroon coats and other elements of our uniform that was last redesigned in the 1990s.

A working party has been set up with union and staff input to come up with a design that is comfortable, durable and practical and that conveys a professional image – all part of our drive to modernize our company and to promote pride in the TTC.

What you may have seen and what is depicted in the media is nothing more than a proposal. A final design has not been agreed upon, and these images are not reflective of what will ultimately be issued.

The incorporation of some red is meant to reflect the TTC’s traditional colour and that of the Canadian flag. For what it’s worth, though, I have favoured a predominantly blue uniform from the start as I see this as professional, modern and smart. That’s why the new Group Station Manager suits are blue.

Please be assured that there will be more consultation before any final decision is made. While it is impossible to please everybody, I want you to be happy and proud to wear our uniform and this means listening to your feedback.

Best wishes,

Andy Byford
Chief Executive Officer
August 20, 2013