FROM THE CEO: TTC Board Highlights

This week, I had the opportunity to attend the People and Culture Town Hall. It was a powerful reminder of the passion and dedication across our organization. I heard honest reflections about what’s working and where we need to improve – conversations that are essential to building a stronger TTC.

Employees raised thoughtful questions about the budget and the temporary pause on filling non-union vacancies. I want to reassure you that I’ve asked all leaders to assess their vacancies carefully and stay laser-focused on our top priorities: improving service to our customers and making our system cleaner and safer than ever.

We’re making good progress toward tabling a 2026 budget that positions the TTC to meet these goals with strength.

There were also questions about our work-from-home policy. I want to emphasize that we continue to be guided by City policy, and that remote work remains an important part of balancing the use of our leased office spaces with employee experience and well-being.

These kinds of open, honest conversations are exactly why I launched the CEO Coffee Club – a monthly opportunity to meet in small, informal groups with employees across the organization. The first session with Procurement and Category Management was energizing. We spoke candidly about workplace culture, operational challenges, and ideas for improvement. Leadership begins with listening, and I’m committed to co-creating the path forward, together. If you have thoughts or feedback, I encourage you to reach out to me directly at ceo@ttc.ca.

This week also brought one of the most difficult moments imaginable. A tragic incident at Royal York Station resulted in the death of an elderly pedestrian following a collision involving a TTC bus. On behalf of the organization, I extend my deepest condolences to the individual’s family and loved ones. We hold them in our thoughts.

Incidents like this affect us all. I want to acknowledge the professionalism and compassion shown by our colleagues at Royal York. One customer even called to thank staff for calmly and respectfully directing people to shuttle buses. That level of care in a moment of crisis is something I draw strength from.

Please remember: you are not alone. If you’re struggling, reach out to our Employee and Family Assistance Program.

Safety is the foundation of everything we do. Every decision, every action, every shift begins and ends with safety. Let’s continue to look out for one another and for our customers with the same care and commitment that defines who we are.

As we approach Thanksgiving, thank you to everyone working through the long weekend. And, I wish you and your loved ones a safe and restful holiday.

With gratitude and resolve,

Mandeep S. Lali
​Chief Executive Officer
​October 10, 2025

TTC Board Highlights
​TTC Board Meeting October 6, 2025

TTC Wayfinding Strategy
​After receiving a staff presentation and numerous deputations, Board members approved the TTC’s Wayfinding Strategy. The Strategy redefines how customers navigate Toronto’s transit system by transforming wayfinding from a static signage approach into a dynamic, multi-sensory, and integrated experience. Rooted in customer-centric design, the strategy aims to eliminate barriers to navigation – ensuring that every rider, regardless of familiarity or ability, can travel with confidence and ease.

Delivering the Strategy is subject to funding of between $173 million and $210 million. Year One Implementation plan is pre-planned, including initiatives in all eight pillars, and submitted for consideration in the TTC’s 2026 budget process. Ongoing user feedback and stakeholder consultation will remain a cornerstone of the Wayfinding Strategy, ensuring that TTC innovations are firmly rooted in real-world needs and lived experiences.

Fare Collection Update
​The TTC Board received a status update on the TTC-Metrolinx Master E-Fare Collection Outsourcing Agreement. The Board adopted recommendations in Confidential Attachment 1, as amended. It authorized the information in Confidential Attachment 1 to remain confidential until the final negotiations have been completed and all necessary agreements have been executed.

Since the last update, the TTC and Metrolinx are continuing to work on improving access to fare media through a growing third-party network and installing PRESTO fare vending machines (FVMs) at major intersections in Neighbourhood Improvement Areas to make it easier for people to purchase fare media and pay for transit. A FVM was installed in 2025, with plans for three more installations in the fall.

Metrolinx is currently improving the existing PRESTO system, moving from card-based technology to account-based technology through PRESTO’s Transition program (PRESTO 2.0). The upcoming PRESTO 2.0 system will expand payment and account management options, including improved concession fare capabilities, enhanced customer support, and instant card loads. While expanding payment options, the TTC will continue to make physical PRESTO cards and limited-use PRESTO Tickets available.

The 2012 Agreement has an initial term of 15 years, which expires on November 28, 2027, subject to various terms and conditions relating to renewal options as set out in the Agreement.

Asset Management – International Association of Public Transport (UITP) Peer Review
​The Board authorized the release of Attachment 2, with redactions applied for commercially sensitive information, simultaneously with the TTC’s Management Response for public review after consideration of the TTC Management Response by the TTC Board at the November 3, 2025 TTC Board meeting.

The TTC is an asset-intensive organization committed to advancing its asset management through a comprehensive, multi-year improvement program. A key element of this program is engaging industry subject matter experts and peer organizations to ensure alignment with best practices. In keeping with this approach, the Audit and Risk Management Committee endorsed a UITP-led peer review of the TTC’s subway and streetcar assets and maintenance programs at its meeting on September 11, 2024. UITP has completed the review and has provided TTC with its findings.

Publicly Honouring the Service and Contributions of Veterans
​The TTC Board approved a report recommending the development of veteran recognition programming in 2026, including exploring opportunities to honour TTC veterans through station displays, digital storytelling, educational outreach, and public art. The report also directed staff to explore partnerships with veterans and heritage organizations in 2026.

Current veteran recognition initiatives at the TTC include welcoming Royal Canadian Legion members to distribute poppies in TTC stations in advance of Remembrance Day; pausing service for two minutes of silence at 11 a.m. on Remembrance Day; providing free rides for veterans and their companions on Warriors’ Day and Remembrance Day; and utilizing the TTC Honour Guard in various civic events throughout the year, including those that recognize veterans.

A new initiative will launch in October 2025 and run through Remembrance Day week that will see digital content recognizing veterans in our system. In 2026, the TTC could pursue the development of veteran recognition programming, explore new partnerships with veterans and heritage organizations, and explore additional opportunities to honour TTC and Toronto veterans and peacekeepers through digital storytelling, educational outreach, and public art.

Notice of Motion – Naming of the Leslie Barns Carhouse
​Commissioners passed a motion moved by TTC Chair Jamaal Myers requesting that the carhouse at Leslie Barns be named after former Toronto Mayor David Miller to commemorate his contributions to delivering better transit for all Torontonians.

Former Mayor Miller is a dedicated advocate for the TTC and public transit. He served on the TTC Board from 1997 to 2003. In 2009, former Mayor Miller helped procure the land for Leslie Barns to build a new maintenance and storage facility to store and service the new streetcars that had been procured. Leslie Barns consists of four buildings, including the carhouse, the traction power substation, the yard control huts, and the irrigation hut. The carhouse is currently unnamed, and this motion would name it the David Miller Carhouse to commemorate his contributions to the TTC.

Foundations of Inclusive Governance
​The TTC Board, in confidential session, received education and training on the Foundations of Inclusive Governance. The session was intended to enhance organizational performance and deliver better outcomes for our customers, staff, and the wider community that the TTC serves, as it advances its journey toward fostering a culture of belonging.

Next meeting of the TTC Board
​The next scheduled TTC Board meeting will be on Monday, November 3, 2025.

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