Office of the Chief Executive

This week, Toronto experienced its first major snowstorm of the season — a reminder of the challenging conditions our customers and frontline teams face in winter. I spent much of Thursday on the system to see firsthand how our employees were managing and to experience what our riders were experiencing.

I want to begin by expressing my sincere thanks to everyone who worked through the storm — those who came in early, stayed late, and went above and beyond to keep Toronto moving. Your dedication reflects the very best of the TTC and underscores the pride and professionalism that define this organization.

On the 512 St Clair, I saw Operators navigating heavy snowfall with steady professionalism. On the 7 Bathurst, I met George, who safely operated his articulated bus and even helped free another stuck TTC bus — a clear example of teamwork under pressure. At St George Station, Conrad was keeping entrances clear and safe for customers. And, at College Station, Rajveer and Lenroy were helping customers navigate the station and stay safe during the storm.

On the 506 Carlton, Leo Ferreira expertly operated his streetcar and manually cleared switches at Parliament and Broadview — demanding work done with skill and focus. And at Broadview Station, Solomon and his team worked together seamlessly to support service through the storm.

These moments highlighted what One TTC truly means: rising to challenges together, every day.

I also want to share an important milestone. The TTC has confirmed that Alstom will build the new fleet of 55 Line 2 subway trains in Thunder Bay, creating 946 Canadian jobs and ensuring at least 55 per cent domestic content. This investment will modernize one of our busiest lines with improved accessibility, modern design, and increased capacity. These are benefits that riders and employees will feel for decades. These trains are funded by all three levels of government, and I want to thank our partners for recognizing the importance of strengthening transit in Toronto.

Last week, I presented the 2026 Budget to the TTC Board, and this week it went before the City’s Budget Committee. This year’s budget maintains our focus on safety, affordability, and reliability. Fares will remain frozen for the third consecutive year, and in September, we will introduce monthly fare capping so no rider pays more than the cost of a monthly pass. We are expanding service hours by two per cent, supporting the first full year of LRT operations, strengthening Wheel-Trans capacity, and continuing improvements that enhance safety and cleanliness.

But I also want to acknowledge the challenges. Like many large transit systems across North America, the TTC continues to face a structural financial imbalance driven by rising costs and slower ridership recovery. We have found $87 million in savings and efficiencies, and we are drawing on reserves to protect affordability. Long-term sustainability will require predictable funding from all levels of government. Our capital plan remains focused on maintaining the system in a state of good repair, but significant unfunded needs persist.

Through these challenges, our commitment to Toronto remains strong. Thank you for the pride and purpose you bring to this organization every day.

With gratitude and resolve,

Mandeep S. Lali
​Chief Executive Officer
​January 16, 2026