Office of the Chief Executive

On the heels of last week’s bus fleet and infrastructure announcements at Birchmount Garage, this week began with a major funding announcement at Arrow Road Garage.

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Deputy Mayor Jennifer McKelvie and York Centre MP Ya’ara Saks, announced a joint investment of $700 million towards the electrification of the TTC’s bus fleet. The Federal government is contributing $349 million while the City’s portion is $358 million.

The new funding will clear the way for the purchase 340 zero-emissions eBuses and 248 bus chargers and related upgrades at eight bus garages. Last year, the TTC applied for a federal grant for eBuses and charging infrastructure to help meet our fleet requirements to 2025.

Not only is this investment an acknowledgment of the vital role that public transit plays in creating sustainable economic growth, it also affirms that zero-emissions vehicles are the future of our industry.

I want to thank all of our employees who supported the announcement. I am grateful to our funding partners, and proud of the work our staff has achieved so far towards our goal of being completely emissions-free by 2040, or sooner.

National Day of Mourning
Today, on National Day of Mourning, the TTC has lowered its flags to half-mast as a tribute to those in our workplace who lost their life or suffered a serious injury or illness.

If you have not already done so, please take a moment to remember those in our workforce, and their loved ones, who have suffered through a workplace tragedy.

Our most important job at the TTC is to ensure the safety and security of our employees, customers and the communities we serve. Removing barriers to safe behaviours at the TTC is a collaborative effort between management, union and Joint Health and Safety Committees to ensure that everyone goes home safely every day.

Stay safe.

Richard J. Leary
Chief Executive Officer
April 28, 2023